Baked Huli Huli Chicken is a delightful Hawaiian-inspired dish that combines the tropical flavors of pineapple and ginger with the savory taste of soy sauce and chicken. This recipe brings a sweet and tangy glaze over succulent chicken thighs, baked to perfection and garnished with fresh pineapple, green onions, and sesame seeds for an enticing meal that's sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds of chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- ¼ 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, for garnish (optional)
- Green onions, sliced for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, chicken broth, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil to create the marinade. Reserve 1 cup of the marinade for basting. Add the chicken thighs to the remaining marinade in the bowl, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. This setup allows the chicken to cook evenly and become crispy.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared wire rack. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin starts to caramelize. Baste the chicken with the reserved marinade every 15 minutes during baking to enhance the flavor and glaze.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
While the chicken is baking, pour the reserved 1 cup of marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry, then whisk it into the simmering marinade. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 5: Broil for Crispiness
For the last 5 minutes of baking, switch the oven to broil to crisp up the chicken skin. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer the baked chicken to a serving platter. Drizzle the thickened sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh pineapple slices, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Note:
- Keep an eye on the chicken during the broiling step, as the sugar content in the marinade can cause it to burn quickly.
Serving Suggestions:
Baked Huli Huli Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine.
Tips:
- Marinating Time: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Basting: Regular basting not only adds flavor but also helps achieve a glossy and appealing finish on the chicken.
- Fresh Pineapple: If available, use fresh pineapple juice and slices for the best flavor and presentation.
Prep Time:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (excluding marinating time)
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving (varies based on the size of the chicken thighs and garnishes used)
- Protein: 25-35g per serving
- Sodium: Varies based on the soy sauce used
Conclusion
Baked Huli Huli Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings a taste of Hawaii to your table. Its combination of sweet and savory ingredients results in a mouthwatering meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the tropical flavors and juicy chicken with your favorite sides for a memorable dining experience.
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