Bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen with this irresistible Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe. Infused with the sweet and savory flavors of soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice, this dish transforms simple chicken thighs into a delectable meal. Ideal for summer barbecues or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe combines vibrant flavors and easy preparation to create a memorable dining experience. Follow these steps to make perfectly grilled teriyaki chicken that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a large bowl or a gallon-sized Ziploc bag. Set aside while you prepare the marinade.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, chopped garlic, and minced ginger. Stir the mixture until the brown sugar is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well blended. This sweet and tangy marinade will infuse the chicken with its delicious flavors.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Pour the marinade over the chicken thighs. If using a Ziploc bag, press out as much air as possible before sealing it tightly. If using a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the chicken and marinade for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.
Step 4: Heat the Marinade
Remove the chicken from the marinade and set aside. Do not discard the marinade; it will be used later. Pour the leftover marinade into a medium saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes to reduce slightly and thicken. This will be used to brush the chicken while grilling and as a sauce for serving.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs on the grill and brush the top with some of the hot marinade. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally and brushing with additional marinade, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has a nice char. Be careful not to use the brush that was in the raw marinade to avoid contamination.
Step 6: Serve
Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, place it in a baking dish and pour the remaining hot teriyaki marinade over the top. Serve immediately to enjoy the flavorful combination of sweet and savory.
For an extra burst of tropical flavor, try adding a splash of coconut milk to the marinade. This will give your teriyaki chicken a creamy texture and a subtle coconut undertone that complements the pineapple perfectly.
Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken brings the vibrant flavors of the islands right to your kitchen. This recipe combines sweet and savory elements with tender grilled chicken to create a dish that’s both delicious and versatile. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a comforting meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and easy preparation. Enjoy the taste of Hawaii with every bite of this delightful teriyaki chicken!