Embark on a culinary journey to the tropical islands with our Baked Huli Huli Chicken recipe. This delightful dish captures the essence of traditional Hawaiian cooking, bringing the unique blend of sweet and tangy right to your dinner table. Originally concocted by Ernest Morgado of Hawaii in the 1950s, Huli Huli Chicken has become a beloved fixture in Hawaiian cuisine. “Huli” is the Hawaiian word for “turn,” originally referring to its rotisserie cooking method. Our oven-baked version simplifies the process while preserving the authentic flavors that make this chicken a luau standout.
Serve this succulent chicken with a side of steamed jasmine rice, which perfectly complements the rich, flavorful sauce. Add a fresh, crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast, or embrace the island vibe fully with a side of creamy macaroni salad and some grilled pineapple slices to enhance the tropical taste.
Baked Huli Huli Chicken
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
3 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
1 cup pineapple juice
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/3 cup ketchup
1/4 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
Fresh pineapple slices (optional, for garnish)
Green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Prep the Oven and Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken thighs in a large baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
Make the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, chicken broth, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken.
Thicken the Sauce: Mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Gradually whisk this into the simmering sauce until it thickens sufficiently to coat the back of a spoon.
Baste the Chicken: Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken in the baking dish, making sure each piece is evenly coated.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45 minutes to an hour. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), with the sauce bubbling and starting to caramelize. Halfway through, baste the chicken with the sauce to enhance its flavor.
Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh pineapple slices, green onions, and sesame seeds if desired.
This Baked Huli Huli Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a festive celebration on a plate, full of flavors that will transport you straight to Hawaii. Enjoy the sweet and savory harmony of this beloved island classic!