This Hawaiian-Style Teriyaki Chicken is a tropical twist on a classic favorite! Juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and pineapple juice, then grilled to perfection. Topped with a glossy, thickened teriyaki sauce and garnished with green onions and pineapple chunks, this dish is bursting with flavor. Let’s transport your taste buds to the islands with this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🍗
1 cup soy sauce 🥄
1/2 cup brown sugar 🍚
2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
1 teaspoon ginger, grated 🌿
1/2 cup pineapple juice 🍍
1 tablespoon cornstarch 🌽
1 tablespoon water 💧
1/2 cup chopped green onions 🧅
1/2 cup canned pineapple chunks (optional) 🍍
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Marinade
In a bowl, combine the 1 cup of soy sauce, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and 1/2 cup of pineapple juice. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the 4 chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or for the best results, let it marinate overnight to soak up all the delicious flavors.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill or Skillet
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for the sauce. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
As the chicken cooks, transfer the reserved marinade to a saucepan. Bring the marinade to a boil over medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix the 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the saucepan and stir until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, slice it into strips or bite-sized pieces. Serve the chicken with the thickened teriyaki sauce drizzled over the top.
Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy!
Garnish with chopped green onions and pineapple chunks (if using). Serve with steamed rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
- Add Heat: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Use Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken thighs for a richer, juicier option.
- Grill Pineapple: Grill pineapple slices alongside the chicken for a caramelized, smoky flavor.
- Make It Ahead: Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
- Serve with Rice: Pair the chicken with coconut rice or fried rice for a tropical twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Sweet and Savory: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and pineapple juice creates a perfectly balanced flavor.
✅ Tender and Juicy: The marinade locks in moisture, ensuring the chicken stays tender and flavorful.
✅ Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners.
✅ Versatile: Serve it as a main dish, in salads, or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 25 minutes (including marinating)
Servings: 4
This Hawaiian-Style Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious and easy way to bring a taste of the tropics to your table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Enjoy! 🌺🍗😊
Final Thoughts
This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Hawaii without leaving your kitchen. The sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce, paired with juicy grilled chicken, creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. So fire up the grill, grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s bursting with flavor!