Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
If you have a craving for something that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and a touch of island magic, you are going to love this Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. This dish is all about tender, juicy chicken thighs soaked in a rich teriyaki marinade that carries the warmth of soy, the brightness of ginger and garlic, and a caramelized finish that makes every bite a celebration. From the grill marks to the glossy glaze, this recipe transports you straight to a Hawaiian BBQ right in your own kitchen, making it a beloved favorite for gatherings or a comforting weeknight treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe plays a crucial role in bringing that authentic island flavor to your plate. They’re simple, yet essential—the kind of staple ingredients that pack a punch and make cooking this dish an absolute joy.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The go-to choice for juicy, tender meat that soaks up the marinade perfectly.
- Soy sauce (preferably low sodium): Provides the salty, umami foundation of the teriyaki sauce.
- Water: Balances the soy sauce for a more mellow flavor and helps create the marinade.
- Brown sugar: Adds the essential sweetness and caramel notes crucial for the teriyaki glaze.
- Garlic (minced): Brings depth and a savory kick to the sauce.
- Ginger (minced): Infuses a lovely aromatic zest that screams “Hawaiian BBQ”.
- Green onions: For garnish—they add a fresh crunch and vivid color at the end.
- Cornstarch + water (optional): A simple slurry to thicken your sauce into a glossy glaze.
- Sesame seeds (optional): Adds a nutty crunch and beautiful specks to finish off the dish.
How to Make Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Marinade
Start by combining soy sauce, water, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger in a medium saucepan. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer for about 5 minutes. This step is where magic starts as the sugars dissolve and meld with the savory ingredients, creating that signature sweet and salty glaze. Once done, allow the marinade to cool just a bit—it’s important for marinating but not cooking the chicken prematurely.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or a shallow container. Pour the slightly cooled marinade right over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Seal the bag or cover the container and let it chill in your fridge for at least 4 hours, although overnight is even better for the deepest flavor infusion. This downtime allows that harmony of flavors to soak into every juicy bite.
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off before placing the thighs on the grill. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, patiently waiting for those beautiful char marks to appear and the chicken to cook through to a juicy finish. Remember, the caramelized exterior is what really brings out the Hawaiian barbecue vibe!
Step 4: Optional Sauce Glaze
If you love an extra glossy, thick teriyaki finish, don’t toss the leftover marinade right away. Instead, bring it to a boil for 5 to 10 minutes to ensure it’s safe to eat. Mix in a slurry made from cornstarch and water to thicken it into a luscious glaze. Brush this over your grilled chicken before serving for that perfect shine and punch of flavor.
How to Serve Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A dish this vibrant deserves a pop of freshness and contrast. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top—their mild sharpness cuts through the richness. Toasted sesame seeds add both visual appeal and a subtle nutty crunch that complements the tender chicken beautifully.
Side Dishes
Classic Hawaiian sides bring this meal together perfectly. Serve alongside fluffy steamed white rice to soak up every bit of that savory sauce. Macaroni salad is a traditional favorite, offering a cool, creamy counterbalance with just the right texture contrast to the grilled chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Slice the chicken into strips and arrange atop a bed of fragrant coconut rice with pineapple chunks scattered around for bursts of sweetness. Or serve your Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe in lettuce wraps with crunchy veggies for a fresh handheld delight. These colorful presentations elevate the meal and keep it fun and festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken absorbs the marinade even more over time, becoming even tastier with each bite. Just be sure to cool it before sealing to maintain its juicy texture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze cooked chicken thighs in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to separate portions with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep that tender quality intact.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is gently on the stovetop or in the oven to avoid drying it out. Heat on medium-low, adding a splash of water or reserved sauce to keep things moist. The grill marks might mellow out, but the flavor will stay vibrant and mouthwatering.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
While chicken breasts can be used, they tend to be leaner and may dry out more easily. Chicken thighs remain juicy and tender, giving you that authentic Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe experience.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out regular soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari sauce to keep all the incredible flavor without the gluten.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 4 hours is essential, but overnight is best for maximum flavor penetration. Avoid much longer as the acids and salt could start to break down the meat texture.
Can I cook this dish indoors if I don’t have a grill?
Definitely! Use a hot skillet to sear the chicken, then simmer it in the marinade until it’s fully cooked. This method still delivers fantastic flavor and tenderness.
What else pairs well with Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe?
Besides rice and macaroni salad, grilled pineapple or a fresh cucumber salad are excellent accompaniments, adding brightness and balancing the savory-sweet notes of the chicken.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe that invites you in and makes you feel like you’re on a tropical getaway, even if you’re just in your kitchen. It’s a dish packed with heart and flavor, simple enough to make any day feel like a celebration. Give this recipe a whirl—you’ll uncover why it’s a cherished favorite and maybe, just maybe, find a new go-to for your next family dinner.
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Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken recipe features tender, juicy boneless chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Grilled to perfection, it boasts a delicious charred flavor and is garnished with fresh green onions and sesame seeds, making it a perfect main course served with steamed rice and macaroni salad.
Ingredients
Marinade and Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ginger (minced)
For Garnish and Optional Glaze
- 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium saucepan, combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors. Remove from heat and allow the marinade to cool slightly before using.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or a shallow container. Pour the cooled marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to infuse the chicken with rich flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot and ready for grilling.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the preheated grill. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice charred exterior. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety. Discard any used marinade or alternatively, boil it for 5-10 minutes and stir in the cornstarch slurry to create a thick glaze.
- Serve: Serve the grilled chicken hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice and classic Hawaiian-style macaroni salad.
Notes
- For stovetop cooking, sear the chicken in a hot skillet and then simmer it in fresh or reserved marinade until fully cooked.
- Choosing chicken thighs over breasts ensures a more authentic texture and juiciness.
- The optional cornstarch slurry can be used to transform leftover marinade into a flavorful glaze.
- Marinating overnight greatly enhances the depth of flavor.
- Make sure to boil any marinade used post-marination thoroughly to avoid any food safety risks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
