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Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken

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Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken is a sweet, savory, and tropical dish featuring juicy chicken marinated in a flavorful teriyaki sauce with pineapple, ginger, and soy sauce. Grilled or pan-seared to perfection, this dish is coated with a sticky, caramelized glaze that’s perfect for a family meal, barbecue, or meal prep. It’s the ideal balance of flavors with a delicious island twist!

Ingredients

For the marinade:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)

  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice (fresh or from canned pineapple)

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For cooking:

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

  • 2-3 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)

  • Pineapple slices (optional, for grilling or serving with chicken)

Instructions

  • Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar (or honey), rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well combined.

  • Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.

  • Cook the chicken (Grilling method): Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates. Remove chicken from the marinade (discard any leftover marinade) and grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).

  • Cook the chicken (Pan-searing method): Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add marinated chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

  • Caramelize the glaze: Brush additional marinade onto the chicken while cooking for extra flavor. Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing.

  • Serve: Serve the chicken with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and pineapple slices if desired.

Notes

  • Pineapple glaze: Add chopped pineapple to the marinade or grill pineapple slices alongside the chicken for extra flavor.

  • Spicy kick: For added heat, incorporate sriracha or red pepper flakes into the marinade.

  • Vegetable pairing: Serve with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a balanced meal.

  • Chicken thighs: Bone-in or boneless chicken thighs work great for this recipe if you prefer extra juiciness