Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

This Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious fusion of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the islands. Marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce and grilled to perfection, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or summer cookouts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The homemade teriyaki marinade provides a balance of sweetness, tanginess, and umami.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile: Perfect for grilling season but also adaptable for stovetop cooking or baking.
• Family-Friendly: The mild sweetness appeals to kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Soy sauce
• Pineapple juice
• Brown sugar
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, grated
• Sesame oil
• Cornstarch (for thickening)
• Optional garnishes: sesame seeds, chopped green onions

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Thicken the Sauce: While the chicken grills, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil and simmer for 3-5 minutes. If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it in.
6. Serve: Drizzle the thickened sauce over the grilled chicken. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4-6 people.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marination Time: 2 hours (minimum)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Breasts: Substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
• Vegetarian Option: Use firm tofu or portobello mushrooms instead of chicken.
• Oven-Baked: Bake the marinated chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
• Spicy Twist: Add a touch of chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for some heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze grilled chicken in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat. Add a little water or extra sauce to keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce instead of making it from scratch?

Yes, bottled sauce works in a pinch, but homemade adds a fresher, more authentic flavor.

2. What’s the best cut of chicken for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal as they stay juicy and flavorful on the grill.

3. Can I cook this on a stovetop grill pan?

Absolutely! A grill pan over medium-high heat works well for this recipe.

4. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, the grilled chicken can be stored and reheated for quick meals throughout the week.

5. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better.

6. Can I add vegetables to the grill?

Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, and pineapple slices pair wonderfully with the chicken.

7. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free as written.

8. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

9. Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, simply double the marinade ingredients and chicken quantity. Grill in batches if necessary.

10. What side dishes pair well with this chicken?

Steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad complement the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of the tropics at home. Its sweet and savory marinade, combined with the smoky grill flavor, creates a dish that’s perfect for gatherings or family meals. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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