Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that brings together the sweet and savory flavors of soy sauce, pineapple, and brown sugar. This tender, juicy chicken is infused with fresh ginger and garlic for a mouthwatering aroma and flavor. It’s perfect for backyard BBQs, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, and its adaptability allows you to prepare it in several ways—from grilling to stir-frying, baking, or slow cooking.
The hallmark of this recipe is the marinade, which strikes a balance between the saltiness of soy sauce, the sweetness of brown sugar, and the tangy brightness of pineapple juice. The chicken soaks in this flavorful mix for maximum tenderness and taste, making every bite a tropical delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Authentic Island Flavor: Sweet, tangy, and savory, this dish captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine.
• Customizable Cooking Methods: Whether grilled, baked, or stir-fried, this recipe adapts to your preferred cooking style.
• Tender and Juicy: The marinade not only enhances flavor but ensures the chicken stays moist and delicious.
Ingredients
• 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1 cup pineapple juice (or pineapple chunks with juice)
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 5 cloves garlic, mashed
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
1. In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce and pineapple juice.
2. Add the brown sugar and stir until completely dissolved.
3. Stir in the minced ginger and mashed garlic.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
1. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. For best results, marinate for up to 3 days.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Grilling Method:
1. Heat a grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken thighs until golden brown and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes per side.
2. Transfer the grilled chicken to a pot on the grill and add a little fresh teriyaki sauce. Allow the chicken to steam for a few minutes to enhance its tenderness and juiciness.
Stir-Fry Method:
1. Cut the marinated chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of sesame oil.
3. Sauté the chicken until browned on the outside, then pour in the marinade.
4. Simmer until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked.
Stovetop Method:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the whole chicken thighs on each side until golden brown.
3. Add the marinade to the skillet and simmer until the sauce reduces and the chicken is cooked through.
Baking Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour 1-2 cups of the marinade over them.
3. Bake for 35-40 minutes, brushing with additional sauce halfway through.
Slow Cooker or Instant Pot Method:
1. Add the marinated chicken to the slow cooker or Instant Pot and cook until tender (about 6 hours on low in a slow cooker or 10-15 minutes under pressure in an Instant Pot).
2. Simmer the sauce separately on the stovetop until thickened, then serve over the cooked chicken.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
1. Serve the teriyaki chicken with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor.
Tips
• Fresh Pineapple Chunks: Adding pineapple chunks to the marinade boosts the tropical flavor and creates a sweeter sauce.
• Marinate Longer for Maximum Flavor: While 24 hours is the minimum, longer marinating results in even more flavorful chicken.
• Digital Thermometer: Chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken brings a taste of the tropics to your table, offering bold flavors and a versatile preparation. It’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!
