Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Grilled Delight
A sweet and savory grilled chicken dish combining Japanese teriyaki and Hawaiian flavors. Tender chicken thighs are marinated in pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, and spices, then grilled to perfection with a glossy teriyaki glaze.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: quick
- Method: Grilling/Pan-Frying/Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
- Diet: General
Ingredients
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup pineapple juice (canned or fresh)
½ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
¼ cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening the sauce, optional)
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Pineapple slices or chunks, grilled or fresh (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour half the marinade over the chicken, reserving the remaining half for the sauce. Seal the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Overnight is best for deeper flavor absorption.
Cook the Chicken:
– Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden.
– Pan-Fry Method: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through.
– Bake Method: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Finish the Sauce: In a saucepan, simmer the reserved marinade over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch-water mixture (if using) and cook until thickened and glossy. Brush or drizzle the sauce over the cooked chicken.
Serve: Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and optional pineapple slices. Serve with rice if desired.
Notes
Marinating longer (overnight) enhances flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
Serve with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a tropical salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg