Ingredients Overview
To make this unforgettable Hawaiian-style dish, you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Soy sauce (low sodium works best)
- Brown sugar or honey
- Pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
- Garlic, finely minced
- Fresh ginger, grated
- Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Sesame oil
- Optional garnish: green onions, sesame seeds, grilled pineapple slices
Each ingredient plays a role—sweetness from pineapple and sugar, saltiness from soy sauce, and depth from garlic and ginger.
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and a small drizzle of sesame oil. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture looks smooth and glossy.
This marinade is the heart of the recipe—it should taste balanced, not overly sweet or salty.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is fully coated.
Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is ideal for the deepest flavor. Turn the chicken occasionally if possible.
Tip: Reserve a small portion of the marinade before adding the chicken if you want extra sauce for basting or serving.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. You want a hot grill that can create caramelized grill marks without scorching the sugar in the marinade.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
Place the chicken directly on the grill and cook for:
- 5–7 minutes per side for thighs
- 4–6 minutes per side for breasts
Flip only once if possible. As the chicken cooks, brush lightly with the reserved marinade or a freshly simmered batch for extra shine and flavor.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
The chicken is done when it’s cooked through, juicy, and slightly charred at the edges. The surface should look glossy and caramelized, not burnt.
Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to keep it tender.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. For a true Hawaiian touch, serve alongside grilled pineapple slices, steamed rice, or macaroni salad.
Serving Ideas
Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is incredibly versatile:
- Serve it over white or coconut rice
- Slice it for teriyaki chicken bowls
- Use leftovers in wraps or sandwiches
- Pair with fresh salad or grilled vegetables
It’s a crowd-pleaser that works just as well at a backyard barbecue as it does for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe is the kind you’ll come back to again and again—simple, reliable, and packed with unforgettable flavor. The combination of sweet pineapple, savory soy, and smoky grill marks makes every bite taste like a mini island getaway.
Save it, share it, and most importantly—don’t lose this recipe 😋.
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