Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Name: Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Prep time: 4 h 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless); 1 cup soy sauce; 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 cup pineapple juice

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Juicy, flavorful chicken thighs meet the perfect balance of sweet and savory in this Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe. The marinade, made with soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice, infuses tropical flair into every bite, while grilling brings out a delicious caramelized finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The marinade is simple yet packed with flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

Grilling adds a smoky depth to the dish that pairs wonderfully with the sweet pineapple undertones.

The recipe is versatile—you can enjoy it as-is, in sandwiches, or even sliced over rice or salad.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to scale up for larger gatherings.

The marinade doubles as a glaze, cutting down on waste and enhancing the flavor.

Ingredients

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

1 1/2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)

1cup soy sauce

1 cup brown sugar (packed)

1 cup pineapple juice

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice until the sugar is fully dissolved.

Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.

Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Remove the chicken from the marinade and let the excess drip off. Reserve the marinade.

Grill the chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

While grilling, bring the reserved marinade to a boil in a small saucepan and simmer for 5 minutes to create a glaze.

Brush the chicken with the glaze during the last few minutes of grilling for a caramelized finish.

Remove the chicken from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Marinating Time: 4 hours

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes

Variations

Protein Options: Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts or drumsticks. Adjust grilling time accordingly.

Vegetarian Option: Use firm tofu or portobello mushrooms.

Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade.

Citrus Twist: Replace half the pineapple juice with orange juice for a unique flavor.

Additional Garnishes: Top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flair.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat on a stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. For best results, brush with additional teriyaki glaze to keep it moist.

Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Related Recipes:

Teriyaki Sauce

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce instead of making the marinade?

Yes, but the homemade marinade offers a fresher and more authentic taste.

What type of grill is best for this recipe?

Both gas and charcoal grills work great. Charcoal adds a slightly smokier flavor.

Can I cook this in the oven instead of grilling?

Absolutely. Bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, brushing with glaze halfway through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful fusion of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a summer barbecue or as a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to pair it with rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

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