This Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is a tasty treat everyone will love! It’s juicy chicken marinated in a sweet soy sauce mix with pineapple flavor, grilled to perfection.
Who doesn’t love a little island magic on their dinner plate? 🍍 I enjoy serving this with rice and extra pineapple slices for a fun twist. It’s like a vacation on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They stay juicy and tender even when grilled. If you’re in a hurry, chicken breasts can work too, but they may dry out faster.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce balances the flavors without being too salty. If you’re gluten-free, try tamari instead. Coconut aminos is another great substitute, adding sweetness with less salt.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh juice gives the best flavor but canned works fine too. If you want to reduce sugar, use a mix of pineapple juice and water or even orange juice for a twist!
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds sweetness and slight caramel notes. You can swap it for honey or maple syrup, although it might alter the flavor a bit.
Ginger and Garlic: Use fresh when possible for the best aroma. If you’re out, the ground versions are okay. Just use less, about 1/4 teaspoon of each!
How Do I Grill Chicken Without It Sticking?
Grilling can be tricky, especially if your chicken sticks to the grill. Here’s how to tackle that!
- Preheat your grill: Make sure it’s hot before adding the chicken. This helps sear the outside and creates a barrier against sticking.
- Oil the grate: Before heating, use a paper towel dipped in oil to wipe down the grates, or spray them with cooking oil. This reduces the risk of sticking.
- Don’t flip too soon: Let the chicken sear properly before trying to flip. It will naturally release from the grill when it’s ready.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensuring you’ve cooked the chicken to the right temperature means it’s more likely to be tender and not dry out, making it easier to handle!
Follow these tips and you’ll be grilling like a pro! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooking oil or spray for the grill
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled Hawaiian teriyaki chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to grill. Be sure to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, let it soak for up to 6 hours. Overall, you’ll spend about 25-30 minutes actively cooking, plus marinating time!
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 sesame oil until the sugar is fully dissolved. This will be the magic sauce that adds fabulous flavor to your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or for the best results, up to 6 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grate with cooking oil or spray to help prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade (don’t forget to save that delicious marinade for later!). Place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken has a nice char.
5. Brush and Add Flavor:
While grilling, you can optionally brush the chicken with the reserved marinade. This will keep it moist and packed with taste. Just make sure to discard any marinade that has touched raw chicken once you’re done!
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle back into the chicken for maximum juiciness. Before serving, sprinkle with sliced green onions for a fresh, colorful touch!
Enjoy your juicy, sweet, and slightly smoky grilled Hawaiian teriyaki chicken! It’s fantastic served alongside steamed rice and grilled pineapple slices for a delightful meal. Happy grilling!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but be mindful that they can dry out more easily than thighs. To keep them juicy, consider marinating for a slightly shorter time or checking their doneness frequently to avoid overcooking.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
The chicken can be marinated for as little as 1 hour, but for the best flavor, aim for 4 to 6 hours. Avoid marinating for more than 24 hours, as the acids in the marinade can begin to break down the meat too much, making it mushy.
What If I Don’t Have Pineapple Juice?
If you’re out of pineapple juice, you can substitute it with orange juice for a different but still sweet flavor. Alternatively, mix some water with a bit of sugar and citrus juice for a similar sweet and tangy effect.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Enjoy it in salads or wraps for a quick meal!
