Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup pineapple juice (from can or fresh)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp water
• 2 green onions (sliced)
• Sesame seeds
• Pineapple slices or chunks (grilled or fresh, optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until well combined.

2. 2

   Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Reserve the other half for making the sauce later. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.

3. 3

   Cook the Chicken: Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 5 to 7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is cooked through.Skillet Method: Heat a small amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 6 to 8 minutes per side, until fully cooked and caramelized.

4. 4

   Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: Pour the reserved marinade into a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer. For a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry and stir it into the simmering sauce. Continue cooking until the sauce becomes glossy and thickened.

5. 5

   Serve: Slice the cooked chicken and drizzle generously with the teriyaki sauce. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and optional grilled pineapple slices or chunks. Serve alongside steamed rice or your favorite stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.