Baked Huli Huli Chicken is a deliciously tangy and sweet Hawaiian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of pineapple, soy sauce, and ginger to create a mouthwatering meal. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and ease of preparation. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein of the dish, providing a lean and healthy base.
- 1 cup pineapple juice: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor that’s central to Huli Huli sauce.
- 1/2 cup soy sauce: Brings saltiness and depth to the marinade.
- 1/2 cup ketchup: Adds sweetness and a tangy tomato base.
- 1/3 cup brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness and helps create a beautiful glaze.
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon of minced ginger: Adds a delightful, spicy warmth.
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Gives a subtle nutty flavor to the sauce.
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional): Adds color, texture, and a mild onion flavor.
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the marinade for basting later.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and ensure they are fully coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover a baking tray with aluminum foil and position a wire rack on it.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the wire rack. Discard any remaining marinade used for marinating.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C).
- Baste and Broil (Optional):
- In the last 10 minutes of baking, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade. For a more caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil for the final 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve:
- After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Optionally, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation. Serve hot.
Tips:
- Marinating Time: For deeper flavor, allow the chicken to marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the Baked Huli Huli Chicken with steamed rice, grilled pineapple slices, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
- Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Enjoy your Baked Huli Huli Chicken, a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings a taste of Hawaii to your dining table!