This Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken breasts marinated in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce bring a little slice of Hawaii to your grill.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicy results. If you prefer chicken breasts, those work too but may need a little more marinade time due to their leaner nature.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is my go-to to keep the dish balanced without being overly salty. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos as great substitutes.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with the caramelization on the grill. If you’re in a pinch, you can replace it with coconut sugar for a more natural sweetener, or use honey, while adjusting the liquid content slightly.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger give a bright flavor. If you’re short on time, using powdered versions is okay, but fresh will always offer the best aroma and taste!
How Do I Get Flawless Grilling Results?
Grilling the chicken to perfection can be tricky. Use these tips for success:
- Make sure to preheat your grill. A hotter surface creates beautiful sear marks and helps keep the juices trapped inside.
- Don’t skip marinating! Letting your chicken soak up the flavors for a few hours truly enhances the taste.
- When grilling, avoid moving the chicken too often. Let each side cook for 5-6 minutes before flipping. This process allows a nice char to develop and helps prevent sticking.
- Always check for doneness using a food thermometer. 165°F is the safe benchmark for chicken.
Remember, a little patience during grilling will yield the best results. Enjoy your Hawaiian feast with friends and family!
Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or pineapple juice
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: pineapple chunks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation time plus at least 1 hour (ideally 3 to 4 hours) for marinating the chicken. Grill time will take about 12-15 minutes, so you can expect a total of around 1.5–2 hours including marination. Perfect for a hassle-free dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar (or pineapple juice), sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix until the sugar is completely dissolved. This marinade is what gives the chicken its delicious teriyaki flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, let it marinate for 3 to 4 hours if you have time.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F. This is the perfect temperature for juicy, tender chicken with beautiful grill marks.
4. Prepare the Chicken for Grilling:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Make sure to reserve the marinade as you’ll use it for basting later. Place the chicken directly on the grill.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Grill each side for about 5-6 minutes. You’re looking for a nice golden-brown color and char marks. To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. During grilling, baste occasionally with the reserved marinade for that sticky glaze.
6. Optional Grilled Pineapple:
If you have pineapple chunks, feel free to toss those onto the grill for 2-3 minutes until caramelized and golden. They make a delightful addition!
7. Let It Rest:
Once done, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful.
8. Garnish and Serve:
When ready to serve, garnish with sliced green onions. Serve it hot alongside the grilled pineapple, and pair it with steamed rice or grilled veggies for a delicious Hawaiian-inspired meal!
This recipe creates tender, flavorful chicken with a shiny teriyaki glaze and a smoky char, ideal for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Enjoy!
FAQ: Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill, chicken breasts can be used. Just be mindful of grilling them for a shorter time (about 4-5 minutes per side) to prevent them from drying out.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but ideally aim for 3 to 4 hours. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will add some flavor, but longer is better!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken the night before. Alternatively, grill the chicken ahead, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
What Should I Serve With Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or grilled vegetables. For a tropical twist, serve it with grilled pineapple or a fresh green salad. Enjoy your summer barbecue vibes!
