1. Introduction
Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful and tropical dish that brings a taste of the islands to your dinner table. This dish features tender chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce, then grilled or baked to perfection. The marinade, which combines the richness of soy sauce with the sweetness of pineapple juice and brown sugar, creates a glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. Perfect for weeknight dinners or summer barbecues, Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and delicious.
2. Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1/2 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons of water
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
- Steamed rice and grilled pineapple slices for serving
3. Preparing the Marinade
Begin by preparing the teriyaki marinade. In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk the ingredients together until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the marinade is well blended. The pineapple juice adds a tropical sweetness that complements the savory soy sauce, while the ginger and garlic provide a zesty kick.
4. Marinating the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for a more intense flavor. Marinating allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the teriyaki sauce, making it tender and flavorful when cooked.
5. Preparing the Grill or Oven
If you’re grilling the chicken, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you prefer to bake the chicken, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. Both methods will yield delicious results, but grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the sweet and tangy marinade.
6. Grilling the Chicken
For grilling, remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the chicken with some of the reserved marinade during the last few minutes of cooking to create a sticky, caramelized glaze.
7. Baking the Chicken
If baking, place the marinated chicken in the prepared baking dish, pouring some of the marinade over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Halfway through the cooking time, baste the chicken with the pan juices to enhance the flavor and keep it moist.
8. Making the Teriyaki Glaze
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the teriyaki glaze. Pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering marinade. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 2-3 minutes.
9. Finishing the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, transfer it to a serving platter and drizzle it with the thickened teriyaki glaze. The glaze should coat the chicken beautifully, adding a rich, shiny finish. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a burst of color and a hint of crunch.
10. Serving Suggestions
Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is traditionally served with steamed rice, which soaks up the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it alongside grilled pineapple slices for an extra touch of sweetness that complements the teriyaki glaze. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
11. Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the chicken and glaze separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of water or extra glaze to keep it moist. The chicken will retain its flavor and tenderness, making it perfect for quick meals throughout the week.
12. Making Ahead
This dish can be made ahead by marinating the chicken the night before. You can also prepare the teriyaki glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. When you’re ready to cook, simply grill or bake the marinated chicken and reheat the glaze. This make-ahead option is ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a barbecue.
13. Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize your Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken by experimenting with different ingredients. You can add crushed pineapple to the marinade for extra sweetness or spice it up with a little sriracha sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result. You can also serve the chicken in lettuce wraps for a fresh, low-carb option.
14. Tips for Success
For the best results, be sure to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but longer if possible. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. When grilling, keep an eye on the chicken to avoid burning, as the sugar in the marinade can caramelize quickly. Finally, don’t skip the glaze—it’s what gives the chicken its signature sticky, sweet finish.
15. Conclusion
Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re grilling it up for a summer barbecue or baking it for a cozy family dinner, the combination of sweet and savory flavors will transport you straight to the islands. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this dish is a fantastic way to enjoy a taste of Hawaii at home. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy the tropical vibes in every bite!
