Description
This Hawaiian-Style Teriyaki Chicken features tender, juicy boneless chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and tangy mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Grilled to perfection and served with a luscious glaze made from the reserved marinade, this dish captures the tropical flavors of Hawaii in every bite. Ideal for summer BBQs or meal prep, it’s garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, and pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and grilled pineapple for a complete island-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Marinade:
- ¾ cup soy sauce
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
For Cooking and Sauce:
- 1 tbsp sesame oil or vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for slurry, optional)
- Sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the sugar is dissolved and the marinade is well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, seal if using a bag, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully infuse.
- Preheat and Cook Chicken: Preheat a grill or a skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease with sesame oil or vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the marinade for later use, and cook the chicken on the grill or skillet for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred.
- Make the Teriyaki Sauce: Meanwhile, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. If a thicker sauce is desired, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry and stir it into the simmering marinade. Continue cooking until slightly thickened.
- Serve: Brush the extra teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken or serve it on the side. Garnish the dish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve alongside steamed rice and grilled pineapple for an authentic Hawaiian-style meal.
Notes
- Boneless chicken thighs are preferred for tenderness and flavor, but chicken breasts can be used as an alternative.
- This recipe is excellent for meal prepping or serving at summer barbecues.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- To make it dairy-free, ensure the oil used is vegetable or sesame, avoiding butter.
