Baked Huli Huli Chicken – Easy Hawaiian-Inspired Dinner Recipe

There’s something magical about a meal that instantly transports you somewhere warm, vibrant, and full of sunshine. That’s exactly what this Baked Huli Huli Chicken does. Inspired by the classic Hawaiian dish that first sizzled over open grills in the 1950s, this modern oven-baked version keeps all the tropical charm while making it easy to whip up in your own kitchen.

Huli Huli Chicken originally gained fame thanks to Ernest Morgado, who developed it as a fundraiser favorite using rotisserie-style cooking. Traditionally, “huli” means “to turn” in Hawaiian—referring to the turning motion of rotisserie chicken. But don’t worry, you don’t need a grill or spit to capture those same rich, smoky-sweet flavors. With a few pantry staples and a good baking dish, you can bring a taste of the islands straight to your dinner table.

The sauce is the real star here: a beautiful balance of sweet pineapple juice, savory soy sauce, tangy ketchup, and warm aromatics like fresh ginger and garlic. Once baked, the chicken becomes irresistibly sticky, tender, and deeply flavorful. This dish works equally well for weeknight dinners or for entertaining friends, and it always delivers that “wow” moment when it hits the table.

In our home, this recipe has become a go-to for busy evenings and casual weekend gatherings alike. It’s one of those meals that feels special but doesn’t demand too much effort. Plus, it smells incredible while baking—almost like you’re getting a big tropical hug from the oven.

Whether you’re looking for something new to break the dinner routine or craving something nostalgic and comforting with a twist, this Baked Huli Huli Chicken checks every box.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons this Baked Huli Huli Chicken deserves a spot in your weekly rotation. Let’s dive into what makes it a total winner.

It’s incredibly easy. With only 10 minutes of active prep time, most of the magic happens in the oven. That means less time at the stove and more time to relax while dinner cooks itself.

Big tropical flavors. Sweet pineapple juice and brown sugar blend with savory soy sauce and ketchup for a sticky, tangy glaze that coats every piece of chicken. Fresh ginger and garlic add warm depth that rounds everything out beautifully.

Perfect for meal prep or gatherings. This dish serves four, but you can easily double or triple the recipe for a crowd. It also stores and reheats like a dream, so it’s ideal for planning ahead.

Customizable. Don’t have pineapple juice? Use mango nectar. Want to turn up the heat? Add a splash of sriracha. Prefer boneless chicken? Go for it. This recipe adapts to whatever you have on hand.

Family-friendly. Kids love the sweetness of the sauce, while adults appreciate the complex flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Gorgeous presentation. Garnish with pineapple slices, sesame seeds, or chopped green onions, and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy dish with very little effort.

With its balance of ease, flavor, and versatility, this dish brings vacation vibes into your home kitchen, no passport required.

Health Benefits

While indulgent in flavor, this Baked Huli Huli Chicken can actually be part of a wholesome, balanced meal. Let’s explore a few of its surprising health perks.

Lean protein source. Chicken thighs, especially when skin-on and bone-in, offer protein-rich meat that keeps you satisfied. If you prefer a leaner cut, using boneless, skinless thighs or even chicken breasts can still deliver amazing flavor.

Pineapple juice benefits. Rich in vitamin C and bromelain, pineapple juice brings both natural sweetness and digestion-friendly enzymes to the table.

Lower in fat compared to frying. Because the chicken is oven-baked, you’re skipping the extra oil that comes with pan-frying or deep-frying. This makes it a lighter option without compromising taste.

Easily adaptable for special diets. With a few tweaks—like using low-sodium soy sauce or swapping out sugar for a natural alternative—you can make this dish work for low-sodium or reduced-sugar diets.

Fresh ingredients for natural flavor. The garlic, ginger, and green onions not only add flavor but come packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Pair this chicken with nutritious sides like steamed vegetables or a crisp salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s both comforting and nourishing.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 430
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 920mg

Ingredients List

To create this crave-worthy chicken, here’s everything you’ll need. These ingredients are simple, accessible, and easy to find at any grocery store.

• 3 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) – rich in flavor and stay juicy while baking
• 1 cup pineapple juice – brings natural sweetness and tropical flair
• ½ cup soy sauce – adds deep umami and saltiness
• ½ cup packed brown sugar – helps create a sticky, caramelized glaze
• ⅓ cup ketchup – for that tangy, sweet backbone
• ¼ cup chicken broth – balances out the sauce and adds savory depth
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger (grated) – brings warmth and brightness
• 2 garlic cloves (minced) – for that unmistakable aromatic punch
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil – adds a toasty, nutty undertone
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (slurry) – to thicken the sauce perfectly

Optional Garnishes:

• Pineapple slices – for an extra pop of sweetness
• Green onions – to add freshness and color
• Sesame seeds – for a bit of crunch and visual appeal

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, prepare a large baking dish and lightly grease it or line it with foil for easy cleanup.
2. Arrange the chicken thighs in the baking dish. Place them skin-side up in a single layer. This will help the tops get beautifully golden and slightly crisp.
3. Make the sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, chicken broth, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows the flavors to meld and slightly reduce.
5. Thicken the sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce while whisking. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze.
6. Pour the sauce over the chicken. Make sure each piece is generously coated. Reserve a small amount of sauce (about ¼ cup) for basting later.
7. Bake the chicken. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Baste halfway through. Around the 30-minute mark, spoon some of the reserved sauce over the chicken to deepen the flavor and create an even more luscious finish.
9. Optional broil finish. For extra caramelization, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
10. Let the chicken rest. After removing from the oven, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
11. Garnish and serve. Top with fresh pineapple slices, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions if desired.

How to Serve

This dish shines brightest when paired with sides that complement its sweet-savory balance. Here are a few of our favorite serving ideas:

• Serve over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.
• Pair with steamed or stir-fried vegetables like bok choy, snap peas, or broccoli.
• Add a side of classic Hawaiian-style macaroni salad for a picnic-style plate.
• Grill pineapple slices alongside for an extra burst of sweetness.
• Wrap in lettuce leaves for a low-carb, tropical-style lettuce wrap.

Pairing Suggestions

Whether you’re going for a light lunch or a full-on tropical feast, these pairing ideas make the meal complete.

Side Dishes:

• Coconut rice or jasmine rice
• Charred corn on the cob
• Fresh cucumber salad with lime dressing
• Hawaiian rolls or honey cornbread

Drinks:

• Sparkling pineapple juice with mint
• Iced green tea with lemon
• Coconut water with a splash of lime

For Kids:

• Serve with buttered noodles or sweet potato wedges
• Offer fruit skewers on the side for a fun, colorful plate

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

This Baked Huli Huli Chicken is just as good the next day—and possibly even better.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken is fully cooled before refrigerating.

Freezing: Place cooked and cooled chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your Huli Huli Chicken turns out perfectly every time.

• Skipping the sauce simmer: This step intensifies the flavor and ensures the glaze sticks to the chicken.
• Not using a meat thermometer: Guessing can lead to undercooked or dry chicken. Aim for 165°F internal temp.
• Overcrowding the pan: This can prevent even cooking. Use a large enough baking dish to keep chicken pieces separated.
• Using thin sauce: Forgetting the cornstarch slurry means your sauce won’t thicken and coat the chicken as desired.
• Skipping the basting step: Basting halfway through the bake adds another layer of flavor and moisture.

Pro Tips

Maximize your results with these helpful pointers:

1. Marinate the chicken: Let the chicken sit in half of the sauce for a few hours (or overnight) before baking for even deeper flavor.
2. Use fresh ginger and garlic: Pre-minced or powdered versions lack the vibrant punch that fresh aromatics provide.
3. Finish on the grill: For added smokiness, transfer the chicken to a hot grill for the last few minutes.
4. Skim excess fat: After baking, skim any visible fat from the sauce before serving.
5. Double the sauce: The glaze is so good, you’ll want extra for drizzling over rice or vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless thighs work well and reduce the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes.

Can I substitute chicken breasts?
Absolutely. Be sure to reduce cooking time and monitor carefully to avoid drying them out.

Is this dish spicy?
Not at all. It’s mild and kid-friendly. You can add chili flakes or sriracha for extra heat.

Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce ahead and bake when ready. It also reheats beautifully.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?
It’s optional but recommended. Even 30 minutes helps boost flavor.

What’s a good substitute for pineapple juice?
Mango nectar or orange juice can work in a pinch, though the flavor will be slightly different.

How do I make it gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce, and ensure all condiments are certified gluten-free.

Can I use skinless chicken?
Yes. Skinless thighs or breasts will still be juicy, but you’ll miss that crisp top.

What if my sauce is too salty?
Balance it with a splash of extra pineapple juice or a little honey.

How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a thermometer—165°F is your goal for perfectly cooked chicken.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Baked Huli Huli Chicken is proof that bold, island-inspired flavors don’t have to mean hours in the kitchen or a plane ticket to paradise. It’s juicy, sticky, sweet, and savory all in one bite—and the best part is, it’s easy enough to make any night of the week.

So what are you waiting for? Try it out for dinner tonight and let the aroma of pineapple, soy, and ginger work its magic. When you do, I’d love to see how it turns out. Share your creations, leave a comment with your favorite variation, or tag me on social media with your beautiful plates.

Let this be the dish that brings the warmth of aloha to your home—one delicious bite at a time.*

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