This Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is a tasty treat that brings the flavors of the islands right to your backyard! Juicy chicken is marinated in a sweet teriyaki sauce, then grilled to perfection.
The best part? You get a delicious meal in no time! I love serving it with rice and veggies for a colorful plate. Plus, it makes a great summer cookout dish that impresses friends! 🌺🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy texture and rich flavor. If you prefer, chicken breasts also work, but they can dry out if overcooked. You can also use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Soy Sauce: Generally, regular soy sauce gives the best flavor, but you can swap it with low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your sodium intake. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. Coconut aminos is a great alternative that adds a touch of sweetness.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice is fantastic but canned works too. If you don’t have pineapple juice, orange juice can be used for a different sweet citrus flavor.
Brown Sugar: If you want a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup instead. Keep in mind that this would change the flavor slightly but still keep it sweet!
How Do I Properly Marinate My Chicken?
Marinating is essential for enhancing the flavor of your chicken. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Mix your marinade ingredients well to dissolve the sugar.
- Using a resealable bag helps to coat the chicken evenly. Make sure to squeeze out excess air before sealing.
- Let the chicken marinate in the fridge. The longer, the better! Aim for at least 1 hour, but 3-4 hours is ideal for deeper flavor.
- When ready to grill, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Marinating chicken infuses it with flavors that elevate your dish. Trust me, taking that extra time makes a difference!
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
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 1 hour for marinating, with 3-4 hours being even better. Grill time is around 10-14 minutes. Overall, you’ll want to plan for about 1 hour and 20 minutes to 4 hours depending on your marinating choice.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and vegetable oil. Mix until the sugar is completely dissolved. This will create a delicious marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. If you can spare the time, marinating for 3-4 hours will enhance the flavor even more!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s fully cooked and has nice grill marks. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving platter and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps retain the juices! Before serving, garnish your delicious chicken with the chopped green onions and sesame seeds if you’re using them.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
This Hawaiian-inspired chicken is perfect served with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables. It’s an easy, flavorful meal that everyone will love!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can definitely use chicken breasts! Just keep in mind that they can dry out more easily, so be sure to watch the grill time and consider marinating for a bit longer to keep them juicy.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 1 hour, but for optimal flavor, aim for 3-4 hours. If you’re in a hurry, even 30 minutes can work in a pinch!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave. You can also enjoy the cold chicken in a salad or sandwich!
Can I Grill This Chicken Indoors?
Absolutely! If you have a grill pan or a stovetop grill, you can cook this chicken indoors. Just ensure that your kitchen is well-ventilated, as grilling can create some smoke. Enjoy the same delicious flavor without having to go outside!
