Baked Huli Huli Chicken

Huli Huli Chicken is a popular Hawaiian dish known for its sweet and savory marinade. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful mixture of pineapple juice, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other delicious ingredients, then baked to perfection. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, bringing a taste of the islands to your table.

 Ingredients for Baked Huli Huli Chicken

• 3 pounds of chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on: Provides juicy, flavorful chicken with a crispy skin.
• 1 cup pineapple juice: Adds sweetness and a tropical flavor to the marinade.
• 1/2 cup soy sauce: Adds saltiness and depth of flavor to the marinade.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Sweetens the marinade and helps caramelize the chicken.
• 1/3 cup ketchup: Adds tanginess and helps create a rich glaze.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to the marinade.
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated: Adds a spicy, aromatic flavor.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a robust, savory flavor.
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil: Adds a nutty, rich flavor.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the glaze.
• 1 tablespoon water: Used to dissolve the cornstarch for thickening the glaze.

 Instructions: How to Make Baked Huli Huli Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Mix the Marinade:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, chicken broth, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

1. Arrange the Chicken:
   • Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and place the chicken thighs on the prepared wire rack. Reserve the marinade.
2. Bake the Chicken:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Make the Glaze

1. Thicken the Marinade:
   • While the chicken is baking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the Cornstarch Slurry:
   • In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Gradually whisk the slurry into the simmering marinade. Continue to simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Glaze the Chicken

1. Glaze the Chicken:
   • During the last 10 minutes of baking, brush the chicken thighs with the thickened glaze. Return the chicken to the oven and let it finish cooking.
2. Serve:
   • Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, with extra glaze on the side if desired.

🍽 Cook’s Notes & Tips

• Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight, but if you’re short on time, a few hours will still give you good results.
• Grilling Option: For a more authentic Huli Huli experience, you can grill the chicken instead of baking it. Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally and basting with the glaze, until the chicken is fully cooked.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the Huli Huli chicken with steamed rice, grilled pineapple, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

 Variations of Huli Huli Chicken

Here are some ways to customize your Huli Huli Chicken:

• Spicy Huli Huli Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Coconut Huli Huli Chicken: Substitute the chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor.
• Huli Huli Chicken Skewers: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, marinate, and then skewer them before baking or grilling for a fun, party-friendly option.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may cook faster than thighs. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid drying out the chicken.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Huli Huli chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

4. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before using.

5. What can I serve with Huli Huli chicken?

Huli Huli chicken pairs well with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, a fresh green salad, or Hawaiian rolls.

 A Sweet and Savory Island Dish

Baked Huli Huli Chicken is a deliciously sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for bringing a taste of Hawaii to your dinner table. The flavorful marinade, tender chicken, and rich glaze make this dish a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re baking it in the oven or grilling it for a smoky flavor, this Huli Huli chicken is sure to become a favorite.

So gather your ingredients and enjoy this mouthwatering dish that’s as delightful as it is easy to make!