Transport yourself to the tropical paradise of Hawaii with this delectable Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe. This dish combines the sweetness of pineapple juice with the savory flavors of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger to create a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible taste. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a delightful weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
The secret to this recipe is in the marinade. By allowing the chicken to soak in this flavorful mixture overnight, you ensure that every bite is juicy and packed with flavor. When grilled to perfection, the chicken develops a beautiful char that enhances its taste and texture. Let's take a closer look at the ingredients you'll need to make this delicious Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless: These are perfect for grilling, as they stay moist and tender.
- 1 cup soy sauce: Provides the savory base for the marinade, adding depth of flavor to the chicken.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds sweetness and helps to create a caramelized glaze on the chicken.
- 1 cup pineapple juice: Brings a tropical sweetness and tenderizes the chicken.
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped: Infuses the marinade with a robust and aromatic flavor.
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced: Adds a zesty and slightly spicy note that complements the other ingredients.
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare the perfect Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken:
Prepare the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a large bowl or gallon-sized Ziploc bag. Set aside while you prepare the marinade.
Make the Marinade
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, packed brown sugar, pineapple juice, chopped garlic, and minced fresh ginger. Stir the mixture until the brown sugar is fully dissolved. This will ensure a consistent flavor throughout the marinade.
Marinate the Chicken
Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken thighs. If using a Ziploc bag, press out as much air as possible before sealing tightly. If using a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, ensuring it is as airtight as possible. Place the chicken in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken.
Heat the Marinade
When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade and set aside. Do not discard the marinade. Transfer the marinade to a medium saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes to reduce slightly and kill any bacteria from the raw chicken.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill and brush some of the hot marinade over the top. Be careful not to place the brush back in the marinade after it has touched the raw chicken. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is nicely charred and cooked through.
Serving and Storage Tips
Once your Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is perfectly grilled, it's time to serve it. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or grilled vegetables, making for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also garnish the chicken with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
For storing leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Helpful Notes and Variations
Here are some helpful notes and variations to make this Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken even more delicious:
- Chicken Breasts: If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time as needed.
- Extra Flavor: Add a splash of sesame oil to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, use the marinade with tofu or tempeh and grill as directed.
- Chef's Tip: Ina Garten suggests always using fresh ingredients for the best results. Fresh garlic and ginger will provide a more vibrant and authentic flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered versions.
This Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that's sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. It's easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion.