Name: Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons pineapple juice; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Summertime is synonymous with grilling, and what better way to celebrate the warmer months than with a taste of the tropics? This Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe brings the vibrant flavors of the islands right to your backyard. Marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, these juicy chicken thighs are grilled to perfection, caramelizing the edges and locking in the mouthwatering island-inspired essence.

🌟 What Makes This Recipe Special

The secret to this Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken lies in the marinade. By allowing the chicken to soak up the bold flavors of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger, the meat becomes infused with a depth of taste that elevates it beyond a typical teriyaki dish. The addition of pineapple juice and rice vinegar adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess, perfectly balancing the savory notes.

What sets this recipe apart is the grilling technique. By searing the chicken over high heat, you’ll achieve a beautifully caramelized exterior that seals in the juices, resulting in a delightfully tender and flavorful bite. The versatility of this dish also makes it a summertime staple – serve it as the centerpiece of a backyard luau, or enjoy it as part of a healthy meal prep lineup.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons pineapple juice
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

The beauty of this Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and rice vinegar creates the Hawaiian-inspired flavor profile that has made teriyaki recipes perennially popular.

Instructions

Step 1: In a large resealable bag or shallow dish, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat. Cover or seal the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
Step 2: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
Step 4: Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Baste the chicken with the marinade during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to create a nice glaze.
Step 5: Transfer the grilled chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Timing Overview

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 12-14 minutes
• Total time: 42-44 minutes

Compared to traditional Hawaiian teriyaki dishes that can take up to an hour to prepare, this Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken saves you 30% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 271
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 858mg

These Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken thighs provide approximately 56% of your daily protein requirements and 37% of your daily sodium needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.

🧘‍♀️ Healthy Swaps & Substitutions

• Reduced-fat option: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs to reduce the overall fat content.
• Lower-carb version: Swap the brown sugar for a low-carb sweetener like Splenda or erythritol.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a soy-free and dairy-free marinade.
• Added protein: Serve the grilled chicken over a bed of quinoa or brown rice to boost the protein and fiber content.
• Boost vegetables: Grill pineapple slices or bell pepper strips alongside the chicken for added nutrients and color.

These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a side of grilled pineapple and a fresh pineapple salsa.
• Pair the chicken with a crisp, tropical-inspired salad featuring greens, mango, and macadamia nuts.
• Complement the dish with a side of steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

For a backyard luau, create an island-inspired platter with the grilled teriyaki chicken, roasted sweet potato wedges, and a vibrant fruit salad.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken: Be sure not to overcook the chicken, as it can result in dry, tough meat. Monitor the internal temperature and remove the chicken from the grill as soon as it reaches 165°F.
• Not marinating long enough: For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum impact.
• Burning the marinade: When basting the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking, be careful not to let the marinade burn, as this can create a bitter taste.

🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe

These Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken thighs retain their quality remarkably well:

• Refrigeration: Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the marinated chicken as directed, but do not grill. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.
• Freezing baked: Allow the grilled chicken to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

❓ FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the marinated chicken can be prepared up to 4 hours in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate until ready to grill. You can also freeze the uncooked, marinated chicken for up to 3 months.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work great in this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as chicken breasts tend to cook faster than thighs. Adjust the grilling time accordingly to prevent overcooking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Why is my grilled chicken tough?

Overcooked chicken is the most common culprit for tough, dry chicken. Be sure to monitor the internal temperature and remove the chicken from the grill as soon as it reaches 165°F. Resting the chicken for 5 minutes before serving also helps to keep it juicy and tender.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to grill sliced pineapple, bell pepper, or onion alongside the chicken for a complete and colorful meal. You can also serve the grilled chicken over a bed of steamed broccoli or roasted sweet potatoes.

🎉 Final Thoughts

These Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken thighs represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as the centerpiece of a backyard luau or as part of a healthy meal prep lineup, they’re sure to impress with their caramelized exterior and juicy, teriyaki-infused interior. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Hawaiian-inspired chicken thighs demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the grilling process. So fire up the grill, pour yourself a tropical cocktail, and get ready to enjoy a taste of the islands right in your own backyard.