Description: Transport yourself to the sun-kissed shores of Hawaii with this delectable Teriyaki Chicken recipe. Combining the savory depth of soy sauce, the sweet tang of pineapple, and the aromatic warmth of ginger and garlic, this dish is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking in your kitchen, this recipe is incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant teriyaki sauce, then grilled to perfection – what’s not to love? Get ready to experience a taste of paradise with every bite!
Ingredients:
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
Preparation:
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken In a large bowl or a gallon-sized resealable bag, place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Marinating the chicken is the cornerstone of this recipe, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product. Ensure that the chicken pieces are evenly spaced for uniform marination.
Step 2: Preparing the Teriyaki Marinade In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, packed light brown sugar, pineapple juice, chopped garlic, and minced fresh ginger. Whisk vigorously until the brown sugar is completely dissolved. The combination of these ingredients creates a sweet, savory, and slightly tangy marinade that complements the chicken perfectly. The pineapple juice not only adds sweetness but also contains enzymes that help tenderize the chicken.
Step 3: Combining Chicken and Marinade Pour the teriyaki marinade over the chicken thighs, ensuring that each piece is fully coated. Gently massage the marinade into the chicken to promote even distribution and absorption. If using a resealable bag, squeeze out any excess air before sealing. If using a bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid.
Step 4: Refrigerating and Marinating Refrigerate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it becomes. Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight ensures that the teriyaki flavors fully permeate the meat, resulting in a truly exceptional taste.
Step 5: Reducing the Marinade Once the chicken has marinated, pour the marinade from the bowl or bag into a saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the marinade to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the marinade has slightly reduced and thickened. This process concentrates the flavors of the marinade, creating a rich and glossy teriyaki sauce to glaze the chicken. Keep a close watch to prevent burning. Set aside the reduced marinade for later use.
Step 6: Preparing the Grill Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure that the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking. Alternatively, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop if you prefer indoor cooking.
Step 7: Grilling the Chicken Place the marinated chicken thighs on the preheated grill. Brush the chicken with some of the reduced teriyaki marinade. This adds an extra layer of flavor and helps create a beautiful caramelized glaze. Grill the chicken for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate temperature readings.
Step 8: Glazing and Finishing During the last few minutes of grilling, continue to brush the chicken with the reduced teriyaki marinade. This creates a glossy, flavorful coating that enhances the visual appeal of the dish. Be careful not to burn the chicken by applying too much marinade towards the end of the grilling process.
Step 9: Serving Once the chicken is fully cooked and nicely charred, transfer it to a baking dish. Pour the remaining hot teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is generously coated. Serve the Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken immediately while it’s hot and juicy.
Why you will love this recipe:
This Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken recipe is a surefire winner for several reasons:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger creates an irresistible sweet and savory flavor profile that will leave you craving more.
- Tender and Juicy: Marinating the chicken thighs ensures that they remain incredibly tender and juicy during the grilling process.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Versatile: This teriyaki chicken can be served in various ways, making it suitable for different occasions.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a weeknight dinner, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends.
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice.
- Pair with grilled pineapple slices for an extra touch of Hawaiian flair.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Use the teriyaki chicken in tacos, wraps, or sandwiches.
Tips:
- For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
- Do not overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your taste preferences.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
- If you don’t have fresh ginger, you can use ground ginger instead.
- Store leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time:
20 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time:
15-20 minutes
Total Time:
35-40 minutes (plus marinating time)
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: 350-400 per serving
- Protein: 30-35 grams
- Sodium: 800-1000 mg
Conclusion
Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the exotic flavors of the islands right to your table. With its tender chicken, flavorful marinade, and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking in your kitchen, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to experience a taste of paradise with every bite!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs in this recipe. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to be leaner and can dry out more easily during grilling. To prevent this, consider pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness and marinating them for a longer period. Be sure to monitor the internal temperature closely and avoid overcooking.
- Can I bake this chicken in the oven instead of grilling it?
- Absolutely! If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with the reduced teriyaki marinade during the last 10 minutes of baking to create a glossy glaze.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the teriyaki marinade and marinate the chicken ahead of time. In fact, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor even more. When you’re ready to cook, simply grill or bake the chicken as directed in the recipe.
- Can I freeze the leftover teriyaki chicken?
- Yes, you can freeze leftover teriyaki chicken for up to 2-3 months. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop.
- What are some other ways to serve this teriyaki chicken?
- This teriyaki chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Some popular options include:
- Teriyaki Chicken Bowls: Serve the chicken over rice with your favorite toppings, such as steamed vegetables, avocado, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo.
- Teriyaki Chicken Salad: Add the grilled chicken to a mixed green salad with a sesame ginger dressing.
- Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Thread the chicken onto skewers with pineapple chunks and bell peppers for a fun and flavorful appetizer.
- Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry: Toss the chicken with stir-fried vegetables and noodles in a savory teriyaki sauce.
- Teriyaki Chicken Pizza: Use the chicken as a topping for a homemade or store-bought pizza crust.
