Baked Huli Huli Chicken is the perfect dish to bring a tropical twist to your dinner table without needing to brave the outdoors and grill. Inspired by the flavors of Hawaii, this dish features tender chicken glazed in a sweet, tangy, and savory sauce made with soy sauce, pineapple juice, and a hint of sesame. The best part? It’s baked, making it perfect for any weather—whether you’re having a cozy night in or craving the flavors of a summer BBQ without having to fire up the grill.
This recipe offers a delicious balance of sweet and savory, thanks to the combination of brown sugar, pineapple juice, and soy sauce. The garlic and ginger provide a rich, aromatic base, while the sesame oil adds a delightful nuttiness. The chicken absorbs all these wonderful flavors as it bakes, becoming juicy and tender with every bite. And the best part is the glaze—thickened and brushed over the chicken in the final moments of baking, creating a shiny, irresistible coating that brings the whole dish together.
Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, making a weeknight meal, or just looking to try something new, Baked Huli Huli Chicken is an easy and flavorful choice. It’s simple to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and promises to impress your taste buds. Serve it with rice or grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ½ cup ketchup
• ⅓ cup brown sugar (packed)
• ¼ cup pineapple juice
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (optional for a little heat)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili paste (if using).
3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for the best flavor.
4. Bake the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later use. Place the chicken on a baking dish lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Make the Glaze: While the chicken is baking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens into a glaze.
6. Glaze the Chicken: Once the chicken is done baking, brush the thickened glaze over the chicken. Place it back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes to set the glaze.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. Serve the Huli Huli chicken with rice and vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this Hawaiian-inspired dish! 🌺🍗