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Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken – Sweet, Savory, and Tropical Comfort
Bring the flavors of the islands straight to your kitchen with this irresistible Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken. Juicy, tender chicken is marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce that’s perfectly balanced between sweet and savory, then grilled or pan-seared to perfection. This dish captures the essence of Hawaiian cuisine, which is all about fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a balance of cultures. Perfect for family dinners, backyard barbecues, or meal prep, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Hawaiian flavor: Sweet pineapple juice and savory soy sauce create a classic teriyaki base.
- Simple ingredients: No fancy or hard-to-find items—everything is pantry-friendly.
- Versatile cooking methods: Grill it for smoky flavor or cook on the stovetop for quick weeknight dinners.
- Family-friendly: A sweet and savory profile that everyone at the table will love.
- Perfect for meal prep: Tastes even better the next day when the flavors deepen.
Ingredients
For the Teriyaki Marinade
- 1 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup pineapple juice (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (can substitute chicken breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for cooking
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1) Make the Marinade
In a medium saucepan, combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Let cool completely before using as a marinade.
2) Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the cooled marinade over the chicken, reserving the other half for basting and serving. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors soak in.
3) Cook the Chicken
- Grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates and grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste with reserved marinade during the last few minutes for extra flavor.
- Stovetop: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 6–8 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Spoon some reserved marinade over the chicken as it cooks for added glaze.
4) Rest and Slice
Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice into strips or serve whole. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a restaurant-worthy finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed white or brown rice for a classic Hawaiian plate lunch.
- Pair with grilled pineapple slices and roasted vegetables.
- Turn leftovers into teriyaki chicken sandwiches or wraps.
- For a tropical twist, serve alongside coconut rice or mango salad.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use chicken thighs: They stay juicier and are more flavorful than breasts.
- Marinate overnight: The longer the chicken marinates, the deeper the flavor.
- Reserve sauce: Always keep some marinade separate for basting to avoid cross-contamination.
- Don't overcook: Use a meat thermometer to prevent dry chicken.
- Make extra sauce: It doubles as a dip or drizzle for rice and vegetables.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Marinate in advance: You can marinate chicken up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Refrigerate leftovers: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze raw chicken in marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
- Reheat gently: Warm over medium-low heat with a splash of water or reserved sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling or pan-searing?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, basting halfway through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce, and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the marinade for a kick.
Nutrition Snapshot (Approx. 6 servings)
- Calories: ~290
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Sodium: varies depending on soy sauce
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken is a celebration of flavor and simplicity. With its balance of sweet pineapple and savory soy, tender chicken, and a touch of tropical flair, it brings a taste of the islands to your table. Whether you grill it outdoors or sear it in a skillet, this dish guarantees juicy, flavorful chicken every time. Serve it with rice, veggies, or grilled fruit, and watch it disappear as your new go-to family favorite.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Leftovers
One of the best parts about making a generous batch of Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken is that the leftovers are incredibly versatile. With just a little creativity, you can transform them into brand-new meals throughout the week. Here are some tasty ideas to help you make the most of every bite:
- Teriyaki Chicken Bowls: Serve leftover chicken over rice or quinoa with steamed broccoli, sliced carrots, and a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce for a quick and healthy lunch.
- Teriyaki Chicken Wraps: Layer chicken, fresh greens, shredded cabbage, and a spoonful of pineapple salsa inside a tortilla for a tropical wrap on-the-go.
- Teriyaki Fried Rice: Chop the chicken into small pieces and toss it with day-old rice, scrambled eggs, peas, carrots, and a splash of soy sauce for a fast, flavorful meal.
- Hawaiian Pizza Topping: Dice the chicken and add it to a pizza crust with mozzarella, pineapple chunks, and red onions for a sweet and savory twist.
- Salad Upgrade: Slice chilled teriyaki chicken and add it to a green salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and sesame seeds for a light, refreshing dinner.
Tips for Hosting a Hawaiian-Themed Dinner
Planning to serve this dish at a gathering? Make it a full Hawaiian experience with a few fun additions:
- Decorate the table: Use tropical flowers, tiki candles, and colorful napkins to set the scene.
- Serve a variety of sides: Pair teriyaki chicken with coconut rice, macaroni salad, grilled corn, and fresh fruit skewers.
- Offer tropical drinks: Pineapple juice, coconut water, or a Hawaiian punch mocktail are great options for all ages.
- Include dessert: End the meal with coconut cake, pineapple upside-down cake, or shaved ice for a sweet finale.
Why Homemade Teriyaki Sauce Beats Store-Bought
Making teriyaki sauce from scratch is surprisingly easy, and the flavor difference is remarkable. Store-bought sauces often contain extra preservatives and artificial ingredients, whereas homemade sauce lets you control the balance of sweetness, saltiness, and tang. By using fresh garlic, ginger, and pineapple juice, you create a sauce that's vibrant and deeply flavorful. Plus, you can customize it by adjusting the sugar level, adding spice, or experimenting with different vinegars.
Closing Thoughts
Every bite of this dish carries the warmth of Hawaiian hospitality and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. The combination of pineapple sweetness, savory soy, and tender chicken makes this recipe timeless and crowd-pleasing. Whether enjoyed as a simple weeknight dinner or the centerpiece of a festive feast, Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken delivers an unforgettable experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.