There’s something undeniably magical about the sweet and smoky aroma wafting from a grill on a warm summer evening. Picture this: juicy pieces of chicken sizzling away, kissed by a homemade teriyaki sauce that gleams like liquid gold under the setting sun. Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience, a mini vacation for your taste buds that transports you straight to the islands with every bite. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
As I take a stroll down memory lane, I can almost hear the sound of laughter and clinking glasses at family barbecues where my aunt would whip up her famous teriyaki chicken. The secret? A blend of flavors so rich and vibrant that it could make even the grumpiest uncle crack a smile. Whether you’re planning a laid-back Sunday dinner or throwing together an impromptu backyard party, this dish will have your guests singing your praises – or at least reaching for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is quick to prepare, making dinner stress-free and fun.
- The balance of sweet and savory flavors creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Its vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece on any plate.
- Perfect for grilling enthusiasts but also adaptable for baking or stovetop cooking.
Ingredients for Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are ideal, but feel free to adjust based on your ravenous guests.
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Fresh Garlic: Use firm garlic cloves for maximum flavor; they add that delightful aromatic punch.
For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.
For the Sauce:
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Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce so you can control the saltiness perfectly.
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Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness to balance out the salty soy sauce; choose light or dark depending on your preference. balsamic brown sugar pork.
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Pineapple Juice: Freshly squeezed is best, but store-bought works in a pinch; it brings tropical vibes to your chicken.
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Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle provides depth and richness to the sauce; it’s like a warm hug in liquid form.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, and sesame oil to create your teriyaki marinade. Toss in those lovely chicken breasts and let them swim in this flavorful bath for at least 30 minutes – longer if you can handle the tantalizing anticipation!
Step 2: Preheat Your Grill
Get that grill fired up! Preheat it to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If you’re using charcoal, wait until those coals are glowing red before putting on your chicken.
Step 3: Grill It Up
Remove chicken from the marinade (don’t discard just yet) and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C). Baste with leftover marinade during cooking for extra flavor – because who doesn’t love more flavor?
Step 4: Let It Rest
Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for about five minutes. This allows juices to redistribute – no one likes dry chicken!
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Slice that succulent chicken into strips or serve whole! Drizzle with additional teriyaki sauce if desired – because more sauce equals more happiness.
Step 6: Enjoy
Serve with steamed rice and grilled veggies for a complete meal that screams “Aloha!”
This Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So gather your friends (and maybe some beach chairs), fire up that grill, and get ready to savor every delicious bite!
You Must Know
- This Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe is not just about that sweet and tangy glaze; it transforms any meal into a tropical escape.
- With juicy chicken and vibrant flavors, this dish shines at summer barbecues.
- It’s perfect for grilling but can also be baked or pan-seared to suit your taste.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in your teriyaki sauce to let those flavors soak in. While it marinates, prepare your grill and chop any desired sides. Grill the chicken to caramelized perfection, then serve it with a side of rice or veggies for a complete meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp to cater to different tastes. For an extra kick, add pineapple chunks to the grill. You can also play with spices like ginger or garlic to customize the flavor profile according to your preference.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on a skillet; this keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful without drying it out. quick chicken stir fry.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Marinate your chicken for at least an hour, but overnight gives you that unbeatable flavor infusion.
- Always preheat your grill for even cooking and perfect sear marks.
- Let the grilled chicken rest before slicing to keep all those tasty juices locked in.
I once made Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken for my friends’ backyard party, and they practically turned into hula dancers around the grill! The flavor was so good that one friend asked if I could add “Teriyaki Ninja” to my resume.
FAQs:
What is Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken?
Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. This dish often features ingredients like soy sauce, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger. flavorful chicken salad Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste. Traditionally served with rice or grilled vegetables, this dish brings a taste of the islands right to your kitchen.
How do I make the teriyaki sauce for Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken?
To make the teriyaki sauce for Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly. garlic parmesan chicken Allow it to cool before marinating your chicken for at least 30 minutes. This homemade sauce will elevate your grilled chicken with its rich flavors.
Can I use other proteins for this Hawaiian recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use other proteins for Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken. While chicken is traditional, you can substitute it with pork, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times based on the protein you choose. Each option will soak up the teriyaki marinade beautifully and provide its own unique taste while keeping that delightful Hawaiian flair.
What should I serve with Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken?
Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or jasmine rice to soak up any extra teriyaki sauce. You might also consider serving it alongside grilled vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini for added color and nutrition. A fresh salad with tropical fruits like mango or avocado can enhance the meal’s freshness and complete your dining experience.
Conclusion for Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken:
In summary, Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious dish that brings tropical flavors to your table. By using simple ingredients like soy sauce and pineapple juice, you can create a mouthwatering marinade that elevates grilled chicken to new heights. Perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners, this recipe is versatile and easy to prepare. Enjoy serving it with rice and fresh vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful dish that brings tropical flavors right to your table. Juicy, marinated chicken breasts are grilled to perfection and glazed with a homemade teriyaki sauce that balances sweet and savory notes. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners, making every meal feel like a mini vacation. Serve it alongside steamed rice and grilled veggies for a complete culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Add chicken breasts and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high (400°F / 200°C).
- Grill the chicken: Remove chicken from marinade and place on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste with leftover marinade while grilling.
- Rest the chicken: Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve: Slice chicken and drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, marinate overnight. - Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for variety. - Add pineapple chunks on the grill for an extra tropical twist.