Baked Huli Huli Chicken brings a taste of Hawaii right to your kitchen. This flavorful dish features tender chicken thighs coated in a sweet and tangy sauce made with pineapple juice and soy sauce. It’s a perfect meal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to follow and requires simple ingredients that you may already have at home. Not only is it delicious, but it also offers a tropical flair with the use of pineapple. Baked Huli Huli Chicken is perfect for anyone looking to spice up dinner with a taste of the islands!
How to Make Baked Huli Huli Chicken
Ingredients
- 2½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 6 pineapple rings (drained)
- Green onions (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the chicken thighs in a single layer into a 13×9-inch baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, ground ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it starts to thicken. Remove from the heat and set aside ¼ cup of the marinade for later.
- Pour the remaining sauce mixture over the chicken thighs.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Arrange the pineapple rings on top of the chicken. Brush the reserved marinade on top of the pineapple hooks and chicken thighs.
- Adjust the oven to broil and broil the chicken for 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it and remove it once the chicken is golden and caramelized.
- Enjoy the chicken thighs whole or shredded over rice, garnished with green onions.
How to Serve Baked Huli Huli Chicken
Serve your Baked Huli Huli Chicken hot from the oven over a bed of rice, which will soak up all the delicious sauce. Add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle green onions on top for a burst of flavor!
How to Store Baked Huli Huli Chicken
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will be good for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Baked Huli Huli Chicken
- Use chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful dish. If you prefer chicken breasts, they can also be used.
- Make sure to reserve some sauce before pouring it over the chicken; this adds extra flavor when broiling.
- Keep an eye on the chicken while broiling to prevent burning.
Variation
You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the baking dish for added flavor and nutrition. For a spicier kick, consider adding a splash of hot sauce to the marinade.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts will work well too, but thighs usually stay juicier.
2. What can I serve with Baked Huli Huli Chicken?
It goes great with rice, steamed veggies, or a fresh green salad.
3. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple can add more flavor, but make sure to cut it into rings before using it.
4. How can I reheat the leftovers?
You can reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until heated through. Adding a bit of water or broth can help keep it moist.
Baked Huli Huli Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts) Use chicken thighs for a juicier dish.
- 0.5 cup pineapple juice
- 0.25 cup soy sauce
- 0.25 cup brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 6 pieces pineapple rings (drained) Fresh pineapple can be used instead.
- to taste none Green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the chicken thighs in a single layer into a 13×9-inch baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, ground ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it starts to thicken. Remove from the heat and set aside ¼ cup of the marinade for later.
- Pour the remaining sauce mixture over the chicken thighs.
Cooking
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Arrange the pineapple rings on top of the chicken. Brush the reserved marinade on top of the pineapple rings and chicken thighs.
- Adjust the oven to broil and broil the chicken for 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it and remove it once the chicken is golden and caramelized.
Serving
- Enjoy the chicken thighs whole or shredded over rice, garnished with green onions.
