Baked Huli Huli Chicken
Embark on a culinary journey to the Hawaiian islands with this delectable Baked Huli Huli Chicken recipe. A dish that perfectly captures the essence of Hawaiian cooking, Huli Huli Chicken is an island classic, beloved for its sweet and tangy flavors. Originally crafted by Ernest Morgado in the 1950s, “huli” translates to “turn” in Hawaiian, a nod to its traditional rotisserie cooking style. This oven-baked version adapts the original method for easy preparation at home while preserving the dish’s iconic luau flavors. It’s an ideal choice for spicing up your dinner repertoire or for adding a tropical flair to your gatherings.
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
- Optional garnishes: fresh pineapple slices, sliced green onions, sesame seeds
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the chicken thighs in a baking dish.
- In a saucepan, mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, chicken broth, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Heat until it reaches a low boil.
- Simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Create a slurry with cornstarch and water and stir it into the sauce until it thickens.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Bake for 45 minutes to an hour, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce caramelizes. Baste halfway through for added flavor.
- Let it rest before serving, garnished with pineapple slices, green onions, and sesame seeds.
Variations & Tips:
- For a lighter option, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and adjust cooking time.
- Marinate the chicken in the sauce beforehand for deeper flavor.
- Add Sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Substitute pineapple juice with mango nectar for a different tropical twist.
- For a smoky finish, grill the chicken briefly.
- This versatile sauce works great on ribs or as a glaze for grilled veggies.
Discover the joy of Hawaiian cooking with this easy-to-follow Baked Huli Huli Chicken recipe, a delightful mix of traditional taste and modern convenience. Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of the islands in every bite!