Description
Hawaiian grilled teriyaki chicken merges tropical flavors with classic Asian-inspired marinades, creating a mouthwatering dish that sings with sweet and savory notes. Juicy chicken pieces glazed in tangy teriyaki sauce promise a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 lbs (907 grams) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Marinade/Sauce Ingredients:
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- ⅓ cup (66 grams) brown sugar
- ¼ cup (60 milliliters) pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon (15 grams) fresh ginger (grated)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon (15 grams) sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 green onions (sliced)
Instructions
- Create a vibrant teriyaki marinade by blending soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cracked black pepper until the sugar completely dissolves into a smooth liquid.
- Transfer the chicken pieces into a secure marinating container, thoroughly coating each piece with the prepared marinade. Seal and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Heat the outdoor grill to a medium-high temperature, approximately 375-400F. Carefully oil the grill grates to prevent potential sticking and ensure easy chicken removal.
- Extract the chicken from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip away. Position the chicken pieces on the preheated grill, cooking approximately 6-7 minutes per side until the meat reaches a safe internal temperature of 165F and develops a beautiful caramelized exterior.
- For an enhanced flavor profile, transfer the remaining marinade to a small saucepan. Bring the liquid to a rolling boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and develops a glossy consistency.
- Plate the grilled chicken attractively, optionally brushing with the reduced marinade for extra depth of flavor. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and finely sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Boost Marinade Flavor by gently pounding chicken breasts before marinating to help them absorb more delicious teriyaki seasoning.
- Prevent Cross-Contamination by using separate marinades for basting and serving, ensuring one batch never touches raw chicken.
- Create Gluten-Free Version by substituting regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which maintain the rich umami taste without wheat.
- Maximize Tenderness through careful monitoring of grilling time, removing chicken immediately when it reaches 165F to avoid drying out the meat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg