Name: Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken | Easy Grilled Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs; ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce; ⅓ cup pineapple juice (100% juice, no sugar added); ¼ cup brown sugar, packed; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for sauce thickening); 2 tablespoons water (if thickening sauce); 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish); 2 tablespoons sliced green onions (for garnish)

Hey y'all! If you're craving juicy, mouthwatering grilled chicken bursting with tropical flavors, this Hawaiian Teriyaki chicken recipe is your dream come true. With a sweet and tangy glaze, golden caramelized edges, and tender meat, it's perfect for family dinners, backyard gatherings, or just a quick weeknight meal. You'll love how effortlessly the Hawaiian-inspired marinade transports your tastebuds. Let's get cooking!

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Why You'll Love This

Impossibly juicy and flavorful, thanks to a simple homemade teriyaki marinade.
Easy prep and quick grilling make this a hassle-free summer staple.
Versatile for family dinners, BBQs, or meal prepping ahead of time.
Crowd-pleasing sweet-savory taste with just the right amount of tang.
Pairs perfectly with rice, salads, or grilled pineapple for a true tropical vibe.

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
⅓ cup pineapple juice (100% juice, no sugar added)
¼ cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for sauce thickening)
2 tablespoons water (if thickening sauce)
1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
2 tablespoons sliced green onions (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until fully combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or shallow dish, then pour marinade over the chicken. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4-8 hours for best flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade (reserve excess marinade for sauce, if desired). Grill chicken thighs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and edges are beautifully caramelized.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

While chicken grills, pour reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer, then mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to make a slurry. Stir slurry into sauce and simmer for 2-3 minutes until nicely thickened.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Drizzle the thickened teriyaki sauce over the grilled chicken and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For extra-juicy chicken, use thighs instead of breasts—they retain moisture better.
Don’t marinate longer than 24 hours, as the acidity can toughen the chicken.
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it tender and juicy.

Variations

Swap thighs for chicken breasts or drumsticks if preferred.
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a touch of heat.
Stir in a splash of coconut milk to the marinade for extra creaminess.

Required Equipment

Grill (gas, charcoal, or indoor grill pan)
Mixing bowl
Resealable bag or shallow dish
Tongs
Small saucepan (for sauce)
Instant-read thermometer (recommended)

Storage Instructions

Store leftover Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet over low heat for best texture.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with steamed rice or coconut rice for a classic combo.
Pair with grilled pineapple slices and a crisp cabbage slaw for a vibrant meal.
This chicken is also delicious chopped onto salads or tucked in wraps for lunch!

Pro Tips

Always pat chicken dry before grilling for beautiful searing and caramelization.
Baste chicken with reserved marinade during the last few minutes of grilling for extra flavor.
Check doneness with a thermometer—165°F (74°C) ensures safe, juicy chicken every time.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Absolutely, but homemade delivers fresher, bolder flavors and lets you control the sweetness.

Is it okay to bake instead of grill?

Yes! Bake marinated chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and caramelized.

Can I make this ahead?

Definitely—the chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours ahead, and grilled or baked just before serving.