This Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is juicy and packed with flavor! The sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce brings a taste of the islands right to your backyard.
Plus, grilling adds a nice smoky touch that makes every bite delightful! I love serving it with rice and fresh pineapple for a little tropical twist—yum! 🏖️🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe because they’re juicy and tender. If you want a leaner option, chicken breasts can work as a substitute, but they might be slightly drier. If you’re feeling adventurous, try tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version!
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice is my favorite for the best flavor, but if you have canned juice on hand, that works too. You can also use orange juice for a different fruity twist. Just know the flavor will change a bit!
Soy Sauce: Traditional soy sauce is great here, but you can swap in tamari for a gluten-free option, or even coconut aminos for a lighter, sweeter taste. Just remember to adjust your salt levels as needed!
Brown Sugar: If you don’t have brown sugar, regular white sugar can be used, but brown sugar adds that deep, sticky sweetness. You can also use honey throughout for a more consistent flavor with the other ingredients.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can get it just right! First, make sure your grill is preheated and clean. This helps prevent sticking and gives nice grill marks.
- After marinating, let the chicken come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This helps cook evenly.
- Grill the chicken on medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This keeps it juicy and prevents the juices from running out when you cut into it.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have beautifully grilled teriyaki chicken every time! Enjoy your meal! 🍗🔥
Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 3-4 hours for marinating. After marinating, grilling should take around 12-14 minutes. So, total time includes marinating plus grilling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil. Mix until the sugar is fully dissolved, creating a delicious marinade for the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, aim for 3-4 hours!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, roughly around 375-400°F (190-205°C). This will give your chicken those beautiful grill marks and a nice char!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken thighs on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have a nicely charred look.
5. Let it Rest:
Once grilled, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This rest time helps keep the juices locked in!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish the chicken with chopped green onions. Serve it with steamed rice and fresh pineapple slices to complete your Hawaiian feast! Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken!
Can I Use Skin-On Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken thighs for added flavor and crispiness! Just make sure to adjust the grilling time slightly, as the skin may take a bit longer to render and crisp up.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill, and it will be full of flavor when you cook it!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s great cold on salads or reheated. To reheat, place it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Serve with Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, cooked quinoa, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of fresh fruit like pineapple or mango for a tropical twist!
