This Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is a tasty dish that’s bursting with flavor! Juicy chicken marinated in a sweet teriyaki sauce gives it a delightful taste of the islands.
It’s perfect for a summer BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner. Just grill it up, and enjoy it with rice and veggies—yum! 🌺 You’ll feel like you’re on a tropical vacation from your own backyard!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and juiciness. If you prefer, you can substitute chicken breasts, but keep an eye on the grilling time since they can dry out faster.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds depth of flavor. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter touch. Tamari is a good gluten-free alternative as well.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice enhances the tropical flavor. If fresh isn’t available, canned juice works too—just watch for added sugars!
Honey: Honey balances the flavors nicely. For a vegan option, you can switch it out for maple syrup or agave nectar.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh garlic and ginger give a nice kick. If you’re short on time, powdered versions are fine, though fresh really makes a difference.
How Can I Grill Chicken Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it just right:
- Marinate your chicken! This adds moisture and flavor, making it less likely to dry out.
- Preheat your grill properly to ensure even cooking. A medium-high heat (around 400°F) is ideal.
- Avoid flipping the chicken too often—let it sear for the right texture!
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F. Remove from the grill promptly to let it rest for juiciness.
Following these tips will help you achieve that juicy, perfectly grilled chicken every time!
Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (preferably fresh)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with at least 1 hour for marinating (preferably 3-4 hours or overnight for deeper flavor). The grilling will take an additional 15 minutes. So, plan for about 30 minutes at the grill, plus the marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper. Stir until the brown sugar is dissolved and everything is mixed well. This will create a sweet and savory marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece gets well coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish, then refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. If you have the time, letting it sit for 3-4 hours or even overnight will give you wonderfully flavorful chicken.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel soaked in cooking oil to help prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken thighs directly on the grill. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and you see nice grill marks. The chicken will be juicy and charred!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it even juicier. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Pair with steamed rice and grilled pineapple or vegetables for a delicious Hawaiian feast!
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken—perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can! Chicken breasts are a great option, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out more easily. Aim for a cooking time of about 4-6 minutes per side, and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good whisk before using it to make sure all ingredients are well combined again!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the grill for a couple of minutes until heated through.
What Should I Serve with This Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, grilled pineapple, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with grilled vegetables for a colorful, nutritious meal!
