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Baked Huli Huli Chicken

Baked Huli Huli Chicken Recipe (Sweet and Smoky)

Baked Huli Huli Chicken is a Hawaiian-inspired dish featuring juicy chicken thighs marinated in a sweet, tangy, and savory pineapple-soy glaze. While traditionally grilled, this oven-baked version is easy to make at home with pantry-friendly ingredients.
The result is tender, flavorful chicken with a sticky caramelized finish, perfect for a weeknight meal or tropical-themed dinner. Serve it with rice, grilled pineapple, or a fresh slaw for a complete island feast.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Marinate Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Hawaiian
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 375 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, ~1.5 lbs)
  • ½ cup pineapple juice
  • ⅓ cup soy sauce
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ 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
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade:

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Marinate the Chicken:

  • Place the chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow container. Pour in the marinade, seal, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.

Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Arrange Chicken in Dish:

  • Remove chicken from the marinade (reserve some for basting) and place in the baking dish. Discard excess marinade that’s touched raw chicken.

Bake:

  • Bake the chicken for 35–45 minutes, depending on thickness. Baste with reserved marinade every 10–15 minutes.

Broil for Char (Optional):

  • For a slightly caramelized and charred top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end of cooking. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Check Doneness:

  • Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Juices should run clear.

Serve and Enjoy:

  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with rice, pineapple, or slaw for a complete Hawaiian-style meal.
Keyword Baked Huli Huli Chicken