How to Make Baked Huli Huli Chicken (Sweet & Smoky)

Aloha! Are you ready to bring a taste of Hawaii to your dinner table? Today, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for Baked Huli Huli Chicken that’s so sweet, smoky, and tender, it’ll become a family favorite in no time! Perfect for quick family dinners or weeknight meals, this dish is a game-changer. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect blend of sweet and smoky flavors that everyone will love
• Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients
• Great for weeknight dinners or special occasions
• Can be made ahead of time for convenience
• Works well with chicken thighs or breasts

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Baked Huli Huli Chicken recipe:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, about 1.5 lbs)
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for added richness)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the steps to create this mouthwatering Baked Huli Huli Chicken:

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
4. Bake the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Glaze and finish: While the chicken is baking, prepare the glaze by simmering the remaining marinade in a small saucepan over medium heat until thickened. Brush the glaze over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking.
6. Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a beautiful presentation.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your Baked Huli Huli Chicken turns out perfectly every time:

• Marinate ahead: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
• Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature for the best results.
• Don’t skip the glaze: The glaze adds an extra layer of flavor that makes the dish truly special.
• Experiment with sides: Serve with your favorite sides, like steamed vegetables, rice, or even a fresh salad.

How to Serve

This Baked Huli Huli Chicken is versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

• With rice: A classic pairing that soaks up all the delicious glaze.
• With roasted vegetables: Pair it with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a healthy meal.
• In a sandwich: Shred the chicken and add it to a sandwich or wrap for a quick lunch.
• As part of a Hawaiian-inspired meal: Serve alongside traditional Hawaiian dishes like poke salad or haupia for a themed dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make ahead and store:

• Make ahead: Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for added convenience.
• Freezing cooked chicken: Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

There you have it—a simple and delicious recipe for Baked Huli Huli Chicken that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for quick family dinners, easy pasta recipes, or just a tasty 30-minute meal, this dish is sure to please. Don’t forget to check out some of our other delicious recipes, like How to Make the Best Apple Bread Recipe Easy Moist or How to Make Cinnamon Apple Bread for more weeknight dinner ideas. Happy cooking!