Description
This Hawaiian-inspired grilled teriyaki chicken is packed with sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a backyard barbecue or an easy weeknight dinner. Marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce with a hint of tropical sweetness, the chicken is grilled to juicy perfection. Serve with steamed rice and a side of grilled pineapple for a truly Hawaiian experience.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for grilling)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper until the sugar is dissolved. - Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor. - Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. - Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Grill the chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid overcrowding the grill. - Optional Step – Glaze:
While grilling, you can brush the chicken with leftover marinade that has been boiled for 5 minutes to make it safe for consumption, creating a sticky glaze. - Serve:
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired. Serve hot with rice and grilled pineapple.
Notes
- For an even more authentic Hawaiian twist, use fresh pineapple juice and add chunks of pineapple to the grill alongside the chicken.
- This recipe also works well with chicken breasts, though thighs remain juicier and more flavorful on the grill.