Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken brings together the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki with a hint of tropical pineapple. This recipe features marinated chicken breasts or thighs grilled to perfection, offering a juicy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a summer barbecue or a tropical-themed dinner. The combination of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar creates a deliciously sticky and flavorful glaze.
Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred): Forms the base of the marinade.
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice: Adds a tropical sweetness and tanginess.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness and helps to caramelize the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds acidity and balances the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Provides additional sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Adds a zesty, spicy note.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs): The main protein. Thighs are more flavorful and tender, but breasts work well too.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for grilling): Helps to prevent sticking.
For Serving (Optional):
- Sliced green onions: For garnish and a fresh, crisp flavor.
- Sesame seeds: For a touch of crunch and flavor.
- Pineapple slices (fresh or canned): Grilled alongside the chicken for extra flavor and presentation.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
- Marinate 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 it is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for the best flavor.
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F or 190°C to 200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the used marinade.
- Place the chicken on the preheated grill. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Baste the chicken with some of the reserved marinade during grilling for extra flavor and moisture.
- Grill the Pineapple (Optional):
- While the chicken is grilling, you can grill pineapple slices for added flavor. Place the pineapple slices on the grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the pineapple is slightly caramelized.
- Serve:
- Transfer the grilled chicken to a platter and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve the chicken with the grilled pineapple slices on the side.
Tips:
- Marination Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but if you have more time, marinating overnight will intensify the flavors.
- Grill Marks: To achieve beautiful grill marks, avoid moving the chicken too much during grilling. Let it sear before flipping.
- Glaze: If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can simmer some of the leftover marinade in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens. Brush it onto the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Serve with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or a fresh tropical salad for a complete meal.
- Vegetables: Pair with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn on the cob.
Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful and tropical twist on classic grilled chicken. The combination of savory teriyaki and sweet pineapple makes it a delicious and memorable dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or family meal. Enjoy the taste of the islands with every juicy bite!
