Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a dish that transports you straight to a tropical paradise with every bite. Imagine juicy chicken marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, grilled to perfection, and topped off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make you feel like you’re on a beach in Hawaii, even if you’re just standing in your backyard.
This recipe isn’t just about flavors; it’s about the memories that come with it. I remember the first time I made Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken for my friends during a summer barbecue. As they took their first bites, their eyes lit up as if they had just discovered the secret to happiness. quick chicken stir fry It’s ideal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a backyard fiesta or enjoying a cozy family dinner. Get ready to dive into an epic flavor experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This incredible dish combines sweet and savory elements while being super easy to prepare.
- You can customize it based on what you have available, making it versatile for any meal.
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table, while the grilling adds an irresistible smoky flavor.
- Perfect for summer barbecues or weekday dinners!
Ingredients for Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work great, but feel free to adjust based on your hunger levels.
- Fresh Garlic: Use firm, fresh garlic cloves for that punchy flavor that’ll knock your socks off.
- Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and caramelization—key elements for that tasty glaze.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce so you can control the saltiness of your teriyaki.
For the Sauce:
- Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice brings brightness and tang; canned works too in a pinch!
- Sesame Oil: A drizzle of this fragrant oil takes your marinade from good to utterly fantastic.
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: For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.
Step 1: Prepare Your Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, pineapple juice, and sesame oil until well combined. This sweet-and-savory mixture will be the star of your dish. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag and pour half of the marinade over them. Seal tightly and shake gently to coat all sides. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight if you want to plan ahead).
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
While your chicken is soaking up those flavors like a sponge, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). A hot grill ensures those beautiful grill marks and juicy insides.
Step 4: Grill Time
Remove chicken from the marinade (discard leftover marinade) and place it on the grill. Cook each side for about 6-8 minutes or until internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C). If you’re feeling fancy, baste with some reserved marinade during cooking.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about five minutes. This allows juices to redistribute—a crucial step unless you want dry chicken!
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Slice up your beautiful grilled teriyaki chicken and serve it atop fluffy rice or alongside grilled veggies. Drizzle with any extra marinade or garnish with sesame seeds for that final touch.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy this Hawaiian-inspired delight that’s sure to bring smiles all around!
You Must Know
- This Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe is more than just a tasty dish; it’s a flavor-packed adventure.
- You can customize the marinade to suit your taste.
- The vibrant colors and mouthwatering aromas make it a showstopper for any gathering or family dinner.
- Perfect for grilling, yet versatile enough for the oven or stovetop.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
For the ultimate Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken experience, start by marinating the chicken while you prepare your grill. Sear each side until golden brown, then cook through on indirect heat to keep it juicy and tender.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative with this dish! Swap out chicken for tofu or pork, add pineapple chunks to the grill, or sprinkle sesame seeds on top for an added crunch. Your kitchen, your rules!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of teriyaki sauce to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly grilled chicken, always let it rest after cooking; this helps retain juices.
- Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure even cooking and minimize flare-ups.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water first to prevent burning.
Sometimes I make this Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken when friends come over. The first bite always brings an “ooh” followed by requests for a second helping—it’s like magic every time!
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken?
To make Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, gather the following ingredients: boneless chicken thighs or breasts, fresh pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. You will also need green onions and sesame seeds for garnish. garlic parmesan chicken recipe The combination of these ingredients creates a delicious marinade that enhances the flavor of the chicken, giving it a sweet and savory profile that is characteristic of Hawaiian cuisine.
How long should I marinate the chicken for Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes in the teriyaki sauce mixture. However, marinating for 2 to 4 hours will yield even better results. If you have time, consider marinating overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the chicken to absorb more flavor from the marinade, resulting in juicy and tender grilled teriyaki chicken.
Can I use a different type of meat for Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken?
Yes! While chicken is traditional for this dish, you can substitute other meats such as pork or beef if you prefer. Just ensure that you adjust cooking times accordingly to prevent overcooking. Additionally, tofu can be used as a vegetarian option. The teriyaki marinade works well with various proteins and will still provide that signature sweet and savory taste.
What side dishes pair well with Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken?
Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken pairs beautifully with several side dishes. Consider serving it with steamed rice or coconut rice for a tropical twist. A fresh green salad or grilled vegetables can add brightness to your meal. chicken salad for picnics Additionally, pineapple fried rice complements the dish perfectly by enhancing its tropical flavors while providing a satisfying balance.
Conclusion for Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken :
In summary, Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce and pineapple juice. It’s perfect for summer grilling and can easily be customized with different proteins or side dishes. tender chicken breast recipes With simple ingredients and easy preparation methods, this recipe brings the taste of Hawaii to your kitchen. Enjoy making this delicious meal for your friends and family!
Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a tropical sensation that transforms your backyard into a Hawaiian paradise. This dish features succulent chicken marinated in a delightful blend of sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, grilled to juicy perfection, and garnished with sesame seeds. Perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners, each bite delivers an explosion of flavor that will transport you straight to the islands.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, pineapple juice, and sesame oil.
- Place chicken in a resealable bag and pour half of the marinade over it. Seal and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F/190°C).
- Remove chicken from marinade (discard leftover marinade) and grill for 6-8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with rice or grilled veggies, drizzled with extra marinade and garnished with sesame seeds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, toss pineapple chunks on the grill alongside the chicken. - You can substitute chicken with pork or tofu for different variations. - Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.