This Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is marinated in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce, giving it that tropical flavor we all love.
I can’t resist the smell of it grilling! Serve it with rice and some veggies, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a mini-vacation. 🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They stay juicy and tender on the grill. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more quickly.
Soy Sauce: A key ingredient in teriyaki, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, choose tamari instead. You can also use coconut aminos for a milder, soy-free flavor.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh is great, but canned works well too. You could substitute orange juice for a different twist, although the classic flavor might change a bit.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness. If you don’t have any, white sugar or honey could work in a pinch. Just remember that honey will add its own flavor!
Ginger: Fresh ginger gives a bright taste. If you’re out, ground ginger can be a substitute, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Grill the Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to preheat the grill. A hot grill helps to sear the chicken quickly and lock in juices.
- Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking. A paper towel dipped in cooking oil works great!
- Don’t flip the chicken too soon. Let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes to develop a nice char before turning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. It should read 165°F (74°C) when it’s fully cooked.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This helps keep it juicy!
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly grilled Hawaiian teriyaki chicken every time!
Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus marinating time (at least 1 hour, ideally 4 hours to overnight). Grilling will take about 15 minutes. So, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 1 hour and 30 minutes if you plan ahead!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the marinade is smooth. This is where all the flavor comes from!
2. Marinade the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour; for the best flavor, let it marinate for 4 hours or even overnight!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Before it’s grilling time, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). This helps to get that perfect char on your chicken. Don’t forget to lightly oil the grill grates to keep the chicken from sticking!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once your grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off (but don’t discard the marinade just yet!). Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. While grilling, baste with the reserved marinade to keep the chicken juicy and flavorful.
5. Check for Doneness:
Grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You’ll know it’s done when it has lovely grill marks and a nice caramelized color!
6. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle back into the meat, making it extra juicy.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the grilled chicken with chopped green onions for a fresh, crunchy touch. It’s perfect served with steamed rice and grilled pineapple or veggies for a complete Hawaiian-inspired meal!
Enjoy your flavorful Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken! 🍍🌺
FAQ for Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer! Just be aware that they may dry out more quickly, so watch the cooking time closely and consider brining them beforehand to maintain moisture.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but for best flavor, aim for 4 hours or even overnight. Just keep in mind that marinating too long can make the chicken too salty, especially if you’re using a salty soy sauce.
What Should I Do with Leftover Marinade?
It’s best to discard any leftover marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken to avoid foodborne illnesses. However, you can simmer the remaining marinade in a saucepan for a few minutes to create a delicious sauce to drizzle over your chicken when serving.
Can I Grill This Chicken Indoors?
If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop! Just make sure your kitchen is well-ventilated, and keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent burning.
