Baked Huli Huli Chicken

Few dishes encapsulate the spirit of Hawaiian cuisine like Huli Huli Chicken. This recipe takes you on a culinary journey to the sun-soaked islands, where the balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors create a mouthwatering experience that is both comforting and exotic. This baked version of Huli Huli Chicken combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with a rich marinade of pineapple juice, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, resulting in a dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for family dinners or even a festive gathering.

Huli Huli Chicken was traditionally cooked on a rotisserie, often over a fire, with the name “huli huli” meaning “turn turn” in Hawaiian. The chicken was turned repeatedly over the grill to ensure an even cook. However, in this baked version, we simplify the process while maintaining the same delicious flavors that have made this dish a beloved Hawaiian staple.

Jump to Recipe

In this recipe, we will guide you step by step through the process of making Baked Huli Huli Chicken, sharing tips on how to achieve the best results, how to customize the dish to your preferences, and why this recipe is perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Baked Huli Huli Chicken 💖

Huli Huli Chicken offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, thanks to a carefully crafted marinade that incorporates ingredients like pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger. Here’s why this dish stands out:

• Tropical Flavors: The pineapple juice brings a subtle sweetness and tang that pairs perfectly with the umami richness of soy sauce and the warmth of ginger. It’s like a mini vacation to Hawaii in every bite.
• Tender and Juicy Chicken: Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs ensures that the meat stays moist and flavorful during the baking process.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Most of the ingredients used in this recipe are pantry staples, but together they create an incredibly bold and complex sauce that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes.
• Customizable: While this recipe sticks to the classic Huli Huli flavor profile, it’s easy to adjust the sweetness, heat, or tanginess to suit your personal preferences.
• No Grill Required: This baked version is perfect for anyone who doesn’t have access to a grill or just wants an easier way to enjoy Huli Huli Chicken without the extra effort of outdoor cooking.

Ingredient Breakdown 📝

Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make Baked Huli Huli Chicken so irresistible. Each one plays an important role in creating the signature flavors of this dish.

Main Ingredients:

1. Chicken Thighs (3 pounds, bone-in, skin-on) 🍗

• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are perfect for this dish because they stay juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process. The skin becomes crispy, while the meat stays tender, absorbing the flavors of the marinade. Thighs also stand up well to the bold flavors of the sauce.

2. Pineapple Juice (1 cup) 🍍

• Pineapple juice adds sweetness and a tropical tang, which is a hallmark of Hawaiian cuisine. It also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it even more succulent.

3. Soy Sauce (1/2 cup) 🥢

• Soy sauce brings a deep, savory umami flavor to the marinade, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the pineapple juice and brown sugar. It also adds saltiness, which helps season the chicken.

4. Brown Sugar (1/2 cup, packed) 🍬

• Brown sugar adds sweetness to the dish while helping the sauce caramelize as it bakes. The molasses in brown sugar deepens the flavor, making the sauce rich and complex.

5. Ketchup (1/3 cup) 🍅

• Ketchup contributes a tangy, tomatoey base that enhances the overall sweetness of the sauce. It also adds color and thickens the sauce slightly.

6. Chicken Broth (1/4 cup) 🍲

• Chicken broth helps to thin the sauce slightly, ensuring it coats the chicken evenly. It also adds more savory depth to the dish.

7. Fresh Ginger (2 tablespoons, grated) 🌿

• Fresh ginger provides warmth and spice to the marinade. Its zesty, peppery flavor is a key element in balancing the sweetness of the pineapple and sugar.

8. Garlic (2 cloves, minced) 🧄

• Garlic enhances the savory depth of the dish and complements the ginger, adding another layer of flavor.

9. Sesame Oil (2 teaspoons) 🌰

• Sesame oil has a rich, nutty flavor that adds complexity to the marinade. It’s a key ingredient in many Asian-inspired dishes and enhances the overall aroma of the chicken as it bakes.

10. Cornstarch (1 tablespoon) 🌽

• Cornstarch is mixed with water to create a slurry, which helps to thicken the sauce, making it cling to the chicken and caramelize as it bakes.

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh Pineapple Slices 🍍: These are great for presentation and add a fresh, juicy bite to the dish.
• Green Onions (sliced) 🌿: Green onions bring a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the finished dish.
• Sesame Seeds 🌰: A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds texture and a subtle nutty flavor to the dish.

Step-by-Step Directions 👩‍🍳

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s dive into the detailed steps for making Baked Huli Huli Chicken. The process is simple but yields incredibly flavorful results.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven 🌡️

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken will cook evenly, allowing the skin to crisp up while the meat remains tender and juicy.

Pro Tip:

• For extra crispy skin, you can increase the temperature to 400°F for the last 10 minutes of baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken 🍗

• Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in a large baking dish. Make sure the skin side is up so that it can crisp up nicely in the oven.

Pro Tip:

• Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before placing them in the baking dish. This helps the skin crisp up during baking.

Step 3: Make the Huli Huli Sauce 🍍

• In a saucepan, combine:
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• Heat the mixture over medium heat, bringing it to a low boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.

Pro Tip:

• Taste the sauce as it simmers and adjust the sweetness or saltiness if necessary. If you like a little more tang, add a splash of rice vinegar.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce 🍯

• In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry.
• Stir the slurry into the sauce, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. This will help the sauce stick to the chicken as it bakes, creating a luscious, caramelized glaze.

Pro Tip:

• Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry this step is key to achieving that signature sticky Huli Huli glaze that makes the chicken so irresistible.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken 🍗

• Pour the sauce over the chicken thighs, making sure they are thoroughly coated. You can use a brush or spoon to spread the sauce evenly across the chicken.

Pro Tip:

• If you want even more flavor, let the chicken marinate in the sauce for 30 minutes to 1 hour before baking. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat even more deeply.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken 🍗🍍

• Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce has caramelized on top.
• Baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through the cooking time to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.

Pro Tip:

• If you notice the sauce getting too dark or sticky, cover the dish with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Let the Chicken Rest ⏲️

• Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve 🍽️

• Garnish the chicken with fresh pineapple slices, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the chicken with steamed rice or a side of vegetables for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings 🥗🍚

Baked Huli Huli Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some ideas to complement your meal:

• Steamed White or Brown Rice: The perfect base to soak up all the delicious sauce.
• Hawaiian Macaroni Salad: A creamy, tangy side dish that’s often served with Huli Huli Chicken in Hawaii.
• Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and pineapple slices can be grilled or roasted for a colorful and healthy side.
• Coconut Rice: Add a tropical twist by cooking your rice with coconut milk for extra richness and flavor.

Variations and Customizations 🛠️

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas to make this dish your own:

Grill It:

• If you want to stick to the traditional method of cooking Huli Huli Chicken, you can grill the chicken thighs over medium heat for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the sauce until fully cooked.

Make It Spicy:

• Add a little heat to the sauce by stirring in red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili garlic sauce.

Swap the Chicken:

• This recipe works well with other cuts of chicken, such as drumsticks or breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as breast meat cooks faster than thighs.

Vegetarian Version:

• Try making a vegetarian version by using tofu or portobello mushrooms in place of the chicken. Simply marinate and bake or grill as you would with the chicken.

Storing and Reheating 🥡

Baked Huli Huli Chicken is perfect for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• In the Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• In the Freezer: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, simply warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

Conclusion: Aloha in Every Bite 🌺🍍

Baked Huli Huli Chicken is a must-try for anyone who loves the vibrant flavors of Hawaiian cuisine. With its sweet, savory, and tangy sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will transport you to the tropical islands with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a summer barbecue, this easy baked version of the Hawaiian classic is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

So, embrace the aloha spirit and try this delicious recipe today. Your taste buds will thank you! 🌺🌴🍍