Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the tropics right to your kitchen. This flavorful recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and savory marinade that perfectly captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine. You’ll find easy steps to create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also great for gatherings or family dinners.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to whip up Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken. Firstly, it’s a great way to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice creates a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill or in a skillet.

Additionally, this dish is incredibly versatile. You can serve it with rice, grilled vegetables, or even in a wrap. It’s also a healthier option compared to takeout, allowing you to control the ingredients and overall calorie content. With minimal prep time and a short cooking process, Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

How to Make Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

Creating Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is simple and fun! Below, you will find all the ingredients and step-by-step directions to get this delicious meal on your table.

Ingredients

1.5 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup pineapple juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional)
2 teaspoons water for cornstarch slurry (optional)
2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish)
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil until fully combined.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour in half of the marinade. Reserve the remaining half for later.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate the marinating chicken for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
4. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the used marinade.
5. Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes on each side until fully cooked and nicely caramelized.
6. Meanwhile, add the reserved marinade to a saucepan and bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes.
7. If you want a thicker glaze, stir in a slurry made of 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water and cook it until thickened.
8. Brush the glaze over the cooked chicken. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.

Pro Tips for Success with Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

1. Marinate Longer for More Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight can enhance the flavor tremendously. If short on time, even an hour will suffice.
2. Grilling Tips: Ensure your grill is sufficiently heated before placing the chicken on it to achieve a nice sear.
3. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Make Extra Sauce: If you enjoy a lot of sauce, consider doubling the marinade ingredients to pour over rice or veggies.
5. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ginger and garlic for a more authentic taste. Dried versions can be more potent and will adjust the flavor profile.
6. Use Two Cooking Methods: For a smoky flavor, consider finishing the chicken in the oven after searing it on the grill.

Flavor Variations for Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

1. Pineapple Salsa: Add a fresh pineapple salsa with diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro as a topping for a burst of freshness.
2. Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce into the marinade for a spicy twist.
3. Honey Teriyaki: Replace brown sugar with honey for a different kind of sweetness and flavor profile.
4. Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken thighs for firm tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian or vegan option.
5. Citrus Flavor: Add the zest of lime or orange to the marinade for a citrusy twist.

Serving Suggestions for Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken can be served in numerous delightful ways:

• Rice: Serve it over fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up the flavorful glaze.
• Salad: For a lighter option, slice the chicken and serve it over a refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and bell peppers.
• Wraps: Wrap the chicken in lettuce leaves or a tortilla with shredded carrots and avocado for a tasty wrap.
• Grilled Veggies: Pair with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus for a balanced meal.
• Quesadillas: Shred the chicken and use it in quesadillas with cheese for a delicious twist on this dish.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can easily store Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken. Allow the chicken to cool down before placing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or store in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well in the freezer for about 2-3 months.

To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 880mg

FAQ About Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful due to their higher fat content. If you use chicken breasts, be cautious not to overcook them to prevent dryness.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free, simply replace soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, such as tamari or coconut aminos. The rest of the ingredients should be naturally gluten-free.

What should I do if I don’t have fresh ginger?

If fresh ginger is not available, you can use ground ginger as a substitute. Generally, use 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger for each tablespoon of fresh ginger required. Keep in mind that the flavor might differ slightly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken several hours in advance or even overnight. Once cooked, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and are great for meals throughout the week.

What can I serve with Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, whether it’s white rice, brown rice, or coconut rice. You can also serve it with a side of vegetables, in a wrap, or as part of a salad. The options are limitless!

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that transports you to the islands with every bite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Embrace the sweet and savory combination, and make this recipe a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this simple yet flavorful dish!

Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

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• Author: recipesforcook
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A delightful dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and savory marinade, capturing the essence of Hawaiian cuisine.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup pineapple juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional)
• 2 teaspoons water for cornstarch slurry (optional)
• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil until fully combined.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour in half of the marinade. Reserve the remaining half for later.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate the marinating chicken for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
4. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the used marinade.
5. Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes on each side until fully cooked and nicely caramelized.
6. Meanwhile, add the reserved marinade to a saucepan and bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5–7 minutes.
7. If you want a thicker glaze, stir in a slurry made of 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water and cook it until thickened.
8. Brush the glaze over the cooked chicken. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.

Notes

For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Use fresh ingredients for optimal taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 880mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 100mg