Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken – Sweet & Savory Island-Style Dinner

Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful, tropical-inspired dish that combines juicy grilled or baked chicken with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze. With hints of pineapple, soy sauce, and ginger, this recipe brings the taste of the islands right to your dinner table.

If you’re looking for an easy Hawaiian teriyaki chicken recipe that’s perfect for weeknights, summer BBQs, or meal prep, this one is a must-try!

🍍 Ingredients

For the Chicken & Marinade:

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• ¼ cup pineapple juice

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (or ½ tsp ground ginger)

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Optional Garnish:

• Sliced green onions

• Sesame seeds

• Grilled pineapple slices

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the Marinade
   In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.

2. Marinate the Chicken
   Place chicken in a zip-top bag or dish. Pour marinade over chicken. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 8 hours).

3. Cook the Chicken

   • Grill Method: Grill over medium heat for 5–7 minutes per side until cooked through.

   • Oven Method: Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 20–25 minutes.

4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
   Simmer leftover marinade in a saucepan for 5 minutes. For thicker glaze, mix 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water and stir in.

5. Glaze & Serve
   Brush chicken with thickened sauce. Garnish and serve over rice.

⭐ Tips for the Best Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

• Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts.

• Don’t skip the pineapple juice—it adds authentic Hawaiian flavor.

• Double the sauce for extra drizzle!

🥗 What to Serve With It

• Steamed jasmine or coconut rice

• Macaroni salad

• Grilled veggies