Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure to Hawaii? Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the flavors of the islands with this delightful Baked Huli Huli Chicken recipe. Originally created by Ernest Morgado in the 1950s, this Hawaiian classic has stood the test of time, known for its irresistibly sweet and tangy taste. Now, you can bring a taste of the luau straight to your own kitchen.

Embrace the Island Vibe

Huli Huli Chicken gets its name from the Hawaiian word “huli,” which means “turn” and refers to the traditional rotisserie cooking method. However, this baked version allows you to enjoy the dish with a practical twist. Whether you’re looking to shake up your dinner routine or hosting a tropical-themed gathering, Baked Huli Huli Chicken is the perfect choice to transport you to the sunny shores of Hawaii.

The Perfect Pairings

To truly savor the rich flavors of Baked Huli Huli Chicken, serve it with a side of fluffy jasmine rice, perfect for soaking up all the delicious sauce. Add a crisp and vibrant green salad for a refreshing contrast to the savory dish. And for an authentic touch, don’t forget a scoop of creamy macaroni salad. Want to take it up a notch? Serve it with grilled pineapple to echo the tropical notes and provide a delightful sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds of chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 1/4 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)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer in a large baking dish.
2. In a saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, chicken broth, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a low boil.
3. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water. Pour this slurry into the simmering sauce, whisking constantly until the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
5. Pour the sauce over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to an hour, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbling and caramelized. Baste the chicken with sauce halfway through cooking for extra flavor.
7. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
8. Garnish with pineapple slices, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor.

Variations & Tips

• If you prefer a lighter version, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they may cook faster.
• Marinate the chicken in some of the sauce for a few hours or overnight to infuse deeper flavors. Reserve some sauce for basting and serving.
• For an extra kick of heat, add a dash of Sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Don’t have pineapple juice? Mango nectar makes a great substitute that still captures the tropical essence.
• For an authentic Huli Huli BBQ experience, finish the chicken on the grill for a few minutes on each side to add a smoky dimension.
• The sauce is also versatile and works well as a glaze for grilled vegetables or on ribs, allowing you to explore different culinary creations.

Now, are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to the islands? Dust off your apron and get ready to enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of Baked Huli Huli Chicken. Aloha!

Bonus Recipe: Cherry Blossom Cookies



If you’re looking to impress your loved ones with a crowd-pleasing treat, why not try baking these delicious Cherry Blossom Cookies? With their delightful combination of Hershey kisses, cherries, and sugar, they are guaranteed to be a hit!

Why People Love This Cherry Blossom Recipe

There are many reasons why people rave about these cookies:

After baking these delightful cookies, it’s important to store them properly to keep them fresh. Follow these steps:

1. Choose an airtight and moisture-proof container, such as plastic or Tupperware.
2. Line the bottom of the container with a double layer of wax paper or parchment paper for added protection.
3. Carefully arrange the cookies in the container, leaving at least an inch of space between each cookie.
4. Seal the container securely to keep out any outside air or moisture.
5. Store the container in a cool, dry place.

By following these storage tips, your Cherry Blossom Cookies can stay fresh for up to two weeks!

Frequently Asked Questions about Cherry Blossom Cookies

What if my dough is sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to handle, simply add more flour gradually until it reaches a consistency that can be easily worked with. Alternatively, if the dough is too dry, you can add a small amount of moisture until you achieve the desired texture.

What kind of extract should I use?

You can use almond, vanilla, or cherry extract in this recipe. While all three options work well, many people prefer the classic flavor of vanilla extract.

What are some tips to make these cookies even better?

• Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking to prevent it from spreading too thin.
• For a more vibrant pink color, consider using pink food coloring or pink sugar to roll the cookies.
• The recipe calls for a generous amount of cherry juice, which ensures that the cookies are moist and flavorful.
• These cookies have a vintage, shortbread-like taste that many people love.

Get Ready to Wow Your Loved Ones with Cherry Blossom Cookies

Whether it’s a special occasion or just a regular day, these Cherry Blossom Cookies are sure to please. Try out this recipe and prepare to be amazed by the delicious combination of cherries, kisses, and sugar.

• Easy to make: If you enjoy baking but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen, these cookies are perfect for you. They’re simple to prepare and don’t require a lot of time or effort.
• Pretty to look at: Sometimes, you want to bake something that not only tastes great but also looks stunning. These Cherry Blossom Cookies fit the bill with their vibrant colors and attractive appearance.
• Great for freezing: Need a cookie that you can make ahead of time and freeze for later? Look no further! These Cherry Blossom Cookies can be frozen without losing their deliciousness.

Ingredients Needed for a Cherry Blossom Cookie

Before you get started, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

• Unsalted butter
• Confectioners sugar
• Salt
• Maraschino cherry juice liquid
• Almond, vanilla, or cherry extracts
• All-purpose flour
• Chopped maraschino cherries
• Granulated white sugar
• Hershey Kisses