Description
This Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is juicy, flavorful, and perfectly caramelized with a homemade sweet and tangy teriyaki glaze. Inspired by island flavors, it’s ideal for backyard BBQs, meal prep, or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 3/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: grilled pineapple rings for serving
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until the sugar dissolves.
- Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour in half of the marinade. Reserve the other half for glazing. Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor).
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Grill the chicken thighs for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred on the edges (internal temperature should reach 75°C / 165°F).
- Meanwhile, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. If you want a thicker glaze, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry and stir it into the sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
- Brush the grilled chicken with the thickened teriyaki glaze during the last minute of grilling for a glossy finish.
- Serve the chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and optional grilled pineapple rings.
Notes
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for juicy results, but chicken breasts can be substituted.
- Marinate longer for a deeper teriyaki flavor — up to 24 hours.
- For an oven version, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25 minutes, basting with glaze halfway through.
- Pairs perfectly with steamed rice or grilled vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian