Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Every time I make this Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, it takes me back to sun-soaked summers with family and friends gathered around the grill. I can still remember those lazy weekends when the smell of marinated chicken sizzling on the grill wafted through the air, bringing everyone together. The laughter, the stories, and the delicious food created memories I cherish deeply. I know that once you try this recipe, you’ll feel the same warmth and comfort in your own home.

How to make Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is the star of the show! The chicken absorbs all the flavors of the marinade beautifully.
• 1/2 cup soy sauce: A key ingredient that gives our chicken that savory depth.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: This adds a touch of sweetness, balancing out the saltiness of the soy sauce.
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice: It brings in a tropical flavor and helps to tenderize the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: A splash of acidity to brighten up the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil: For a nutty fragrance that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because what is cooking without a little garlic? It adds a lovely aroma.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger: For a hint of spice and warmth.
• Sesame seeds for garnish: A little crunch and visual appeal go a long way!
• Green onions for garnish: Freshness and color to liven up the dish.

Personal note: I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary—it makes the chicken smell and taste amazing! You could also use cilantro or parsley, depending on what you have on hand.

Cooking Steps

1. Prepare the Marinade: Start by whisking together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and ground ginger in a bowl. The combination of sweet, salty, and tangy scents will make your mouth water before you even begin to cook!

2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag and pour that delicious marinade all over them. Seal the bag tightly and give it a gentle shake to ensure the chicken is well coated. Now, this is the hard part—put the chicken in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least an hour. Overnight is even better because it allows all those flavors to soak in deeply.

3. Preheat the Grill: About 15 minutes before you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is key for achieving that perfect grill mark and ensuring even cooking.

4. Remove Excess Marinade: Take the chicken out of the refrigerator and remove it from the marinade. Discard any leftover marinade—trust me, we’re going for a clean grill experience here!

5. Grill the Chicken: Once the grill is hot, place the chicken on it and cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side. Once you see those beautiful grill marks, flip the chicken and cook for another 6-7 minutes on the other side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. I can already smell it!

6. Garnish: Once cooked, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This step is crucial, as resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken. Before serving, sprinkle a handful of sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for a pop of color and flavor.

Why I Love Making This Dish There’s something magical about grilled food! The smoky, charred flavors combined with the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce create a delightful contrast that keeps my family coming back for more. Plus, it’s versatile! You can serve this chicken with rice, salad, or even in a sandwich. I also love that it reminds me of summer gatherings with loved ones, no matter the season.

What You’ll Need: For this delightful dish, you won’t need any fancy equipment—just a good grill! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stove. A resealable plastic bag or a dish will be handy for marinating. Oh, and don’t forget to have a set of tongs for flipping the chicken!

Step-by-Step Guide

1. First, prepare your marinade. Trust me, this is the foundation of flavor!
2. Collect the chicken in the bag and pour the marinade over it. Give it a gentle shake.
3. Pop it in the fridge and let it rest (the longer, the better).
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, let go of excess liquid, and discard the rest.
6. Grill each side until you see those beautiful grill marks.
7. Let it rest and then garnish before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

• For extra flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to your marinade if you like a little kick!
• Make sure your grill is properly preheated to avoid sticking.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked—nobody likes dry chicken!

Serving Suggestions and Sides I highly recommend serving your Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken with some fluffy jasmine rice and a side of grilled vegetables. Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and corn will complement the flavors beautifully! You could also serve it with a fresh salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.

Leftovers If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or briefly warm it up in a skillet on the stove. Just don’t overcook it again, or you might end up with dry chicken!

FAQ Section Can I use boneless chicken? You can, but trust me, the bone-in version is so much more flavorful. I’ve tried both, and bone-in is always juicier!

What if I don’t have pineapple juice? You can substitute it with apple juice or even a bit of orange juice for a different flavor profile. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious!

Can I make this dish in the oven? Absolutely! Just place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake it at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until fully cooked. It won’t have the grilled flavor, but it will still turn out tender and juicy.

Is this chicken safe for freezing? Yes, you can freeze the chicken before or after cooking. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it gently.

This Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken has become a favorite in my house, and I’m so excited for you to try it. I can’t wait for you to share this meal with your loved ones! I know your family will love it as much as mine does, and you’ll find yourself making it time and again. Let me know how it turns out, and if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time! Enjoy the cooking adventure that comes with this recipe!