If you’re looking to infuse your dinner routine with vibrant tropical flavors, look no further than this Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. The succulent chicken thighs, bathed in a luscious blend of sweet pineapple juice, savory soy, and a hint of fragrant ginger and garlic, deliver an irresistible combination of taste and texture. This dish brings a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy notes that come alive whether grilled or pan-seared, finished off with a rich, glossy glaze that makes every bite a celebration of Hawaiian-inspired goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to unlocking the magic in this Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. Each item plays a crucial role, from the juicy chicken thighs that soak up the marinade to the pineapple juice which adds that unmistakable tropical sweetness and tenderizing effect.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The perfect cut for juicy, flavorful results that hold up well to grilling or pan-frying.
- 1/2 cup soy sauce: Provides savory depth and a salty backbone to the marinade.
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice: Adds sweetness and tenderizes the meat while reinforcing the Hawaiian theme.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings rich caramelized notes to balance salty soy.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Adds natural sweetness and a beautiful sticky glaze when cooked.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Gives a gentle tang that brightens the marinade.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential aromatic for depth and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Offers a subtle zing that wakes up the palate.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild spice and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water: Used to thicken the teriyaki sauce into a luscious glaze.
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil: Delivers a nutty aroma and enriches the finished sauce.
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish: Brings fresh color and mild onion flavor.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and toasty flavor for garnish.
- Pineapple slices (optional): Serve alongside for a juicy, tropical contrast.
How to Make Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper in a medium bowl until everything is beautifully combined. This vibrant marinade is where all the magic begins, perfectly balancing sweet and savory notes that soak deep into the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. The longer you let the chicken soak, up to 6 hours, the more tender and flavor-packed it will become.
Step 3: Preheat and Cook
Bring your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 6 to 8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the surface is beautifully caramelized. That charred, sweet glaze makes every bite simply irresistible.
Step 4: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
While the chicken cooks, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens into a silky glaze. Remove from heat and stir in the sesame oil to give it a rich, nutty finish.
Step 5: Serve with Sauce and Garnishes
Plate your perfectly cooked Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe with a generous drizzle of the thickened teriyaki sauce. Sprinkle sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top, and add pineapple slices on the side for that extra tropical flair.
How to Serve Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions add a burst of color and crispness, while toasted sesame seeds bring in a subtle crunch and nutty flavor. Both elevate the dish with layers of texture and visual appeal that make it impossible to resist digging in.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing this chicken with fluffy steamed jasmine rice or fragrant coconut rice to soak up the luscious sauce. Stir-fried vegetables or a crisp green salad provide freshness and balance out the richness in perfect harmony.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun Hawaiian-themed meal, serve the chicken alongside grilled pineapple rings and vibrant tropical fruit salsa. Or, try slicing the chicken and layering it in a fresh wrap with shredded cabbage and a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce for a delicious twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your leftover Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen, making reheated bites just as delightful if not better!
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. This makes for a convenient and delicious meal option whenever a tropical craving strikes.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to keep the meat moist and the glaze glossy. Avoid high heat to prevent drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While thighs stay juicier during cooking, chicken breasts also work well if you’re seeking a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook them to keep the chicken tender and juicy.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for hours?
Marinating for at least one hour is essential to let the flavors penetrate the meat, but if you’re pressed for time, even 30 minutes will add noticeable flavor.
Can I make the Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe without grilling?
Yes! Pan-searing the chicken works wonderfully and can even be done indoors all year round. Use a heavy skillet for a nice sear and finish cooking over medium heat.
What can I use if I don’t have pineapple juice?
If fresh pineapple juice isn’t available, white grape juice mixed with a squeeze of lemon can mimic the sweetness and acidity reasonably well, but pineapple juice really gives this dish its signature tropical vibe.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
The cornstarch slurry is key to achieving that perfect thick glaze. Make sure to simmer the sauce long enough after adding it, and adjust the cornstarch and water ratio if you want it thicker or thinner.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that brings a taste of the islands into your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or impressing friends, the vibrant, sweet-savory glaze paired with tender chicken makes this dish an instant favorite you’ll want to return to again and again. Dive in and enjoy every luscious bite of your tropical escape!
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Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and tangy pineapple-infused teriyaki sauce, then grilled to perfection. This tropical-inspired recipe balances savory soy sauce with the natural sweetness of pineapple juice, brown sugar, and honey, creating a luscious glaze that’s perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. Garnished with green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and optional pineapple slices, this dish brings a burst of vibrant flavor and island flair to your table.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Teriyaki Marinade
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Thickening Slurry
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Finishing and Garnish
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- Pineapple slices for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Teriyaki Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, and black pepper until the sugar is dissolved and ingredients are well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the prepared teriyaki marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 6 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat and Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, letting excess marinade drip off. Discard the used marinade on the chicken. Cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes per side until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), with a nicely charred exterior.
- Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: While the chicken cooks, pour the reserved half of the marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then slowly whisk it into the simmering marinade. Continue stirring and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy glaze.
- Finish the Sauce and Serve: Remove the thickened sauce from the heat and stir in the sesame oil for added aroma and flavor. Plate the grilled chicken thighs and drizzle generously with the teriyaki glaze. Garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and pineapple slices if desired. Serve immediately for a delicious Hawaiian-inspired meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken longer (up to 6 hours) enhances flavor and tenderness.
- For a sweeter and stickier glaze, brush extra sauce onto the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling.
- Pair with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
- If grilling outdoors, pre-oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- The cornstarch slurry is key to achieving the perfect glossy teriyaki sauce consistency.
