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Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

A vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine with sweet pineapple and savory teriyaki marinade.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening sauce, optional)
  • 2 green onions (sliced for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Pineapple slices or chunks (grilled or fresh, optional serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). This blend creates a tropical hug in a bowl!
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs into a resealable plastic bag or a dish, then pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).
  3. Preheat the Grill: Get your grill hot and ready—medium-high heat is your best friend here.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Place the thighs on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through.
  5. Thicken the Sauce (optional): If you want a thicker sauce, combine the cornstarch with the water in a small saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer, whisking in the marinade.
  6. Garnish the Dish: Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve topped with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and pineapple slices.

Notes

For extra flavor, brush the chicken with leftover marinade (boiled beforehand). Pair with fluffy jasmine rice or cucumber salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: Hawaiian chicken, teriyaki chicken, grilled chicken, tropical flavors