Easy Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s both quick to prepare and bursting with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, this Easy Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken recipe is your new kitchen best friend. With tender chicken glazed in a vibrant, mouthwatering sauce inspired by the islands, it’s an ideal meal for weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prep. The harmony of soy, pineapple, and a subtle hint of ginger delivers that classic Hawaiian vibe that’s hearty yet refreshing—making Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken a delightful go-to dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings when time is tight.
• Sweet and Tangy Flavor: The glaze captures the authentic taste of Hawaiian cuisine with a delicious balance.
• Versatile Meal: Great for serving with rice, salads, or tossing into wraps and bowls.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Keeps well, making it a fantastic option for lunches or leftovers.
• Kid-Approved: Mildly sweet and savory, pleasing both young and grown-up palates.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the perfect taste starts with simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Each element plays a key role—from the juicy chicken to the flavorful pineapple juice and soy sauce base that creates that signature Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken glaze.

• Chicken thighs or breasts: Choose boneless for quick cooking and juicy texture.
• Soy sauce: The salty backbone of the glaze that deepens the overall flavor.
• Pineapple juice: Adds natural sweetness and a tropical flair.
• Brown sugar: Balances saltiness and helps the sauce caramelize.
• Garlic and ginger: Fresh or powdered, they bring warmth and zest to the dish.
• Rice vinegar: Offers mild acidity, enhancing the tanginess of the sauce.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the glaze for that perfect sticky sheen.
• Green onions: Adds freshness and a pop of color as a garnish.

Variations for Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken

This Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken recipe is a fantastic base to customize according to your taste or dietary needs. Here are some easy ways to mix it up and keep things exciting in your kitchen.

• Use chicken breasts or thighs: Thighs for richer flavor, breasts for lean protein, depending on preference.
• Add pineapple chunks: Toss fresh or canned pineapple into the pan for extra tropical sweetness.
• Spice it up: Mix in red pepper flakes or sriracha for a subtle kick.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos without compromising taste.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a vegan-friendly twist.

How to Make Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely to create a perfectly balanced marinade for your chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, and up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat with a bit of oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the liquid) and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and nicely browned.

Step 4: Make the Teriyaki Glaze

Pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan, then bring it to a gentle boil. Mix cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, and whisk it into the simmering sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously until the glaze thickens.

Step 5: Glaze the Chicken

Return the cooked chicken to the pan and coat evenly with the thickened teriyaki glaze. Let it simmer for another minute so the sauce clings beautifully, adding shine and extra flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken

• Marinate longer if possible: For even juicier chicken, let it soak in the marinade up to overnight.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets a nice sear.
• Use fresh ginger and garlic: It really boosts the authentic Hawaiian flavor compared to powders.
• Thicken the sauce carefully: Add cornstarch slurry gradually to avoid clumps.
• Let the chicken rest: Allowing it to sit a few minutes after cooking locks in the juices.

How to Serve Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken

Garnishes

Freshly chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds are the classic go-to toppings to add texture and a bright burst of flavor. You can also sprinkle some crushed macadamia nuts for a delightful crunch with a Hawaiian twist.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice to soak up the luscious teriyaki sauce. For extra veggies, consider a crisp cabbage slaw, steamed broccoli, or sautéed snap peas to bring color and nutrition to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or layer it inside lettuce wraps for a fresh, hand-held treat. Another fun idea is to slice the chicken and toss it into a warm grain bowl with avocado, mango, and a drizzle of the glaze as dressing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Separate the chicken from any rice or sides to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully; place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months for easy future meals. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to evenly warm and prevent drying out. Add a splash of water or broth if the glaze thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well in this recipe and offer a leaner option while still absorbing the delicious teriyaki glaze.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

While you can cook the chicken immediately with the sauce, marinating helps tenderize the meat and infuses more flavor for a richer dish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to keep it gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

What can I serve with Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken?

Steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh tropical salad complement this dish beautifully and round out the meal.

How long does leftover Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken keep?

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months for best taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken recipe brings a vibrant island-inspired flavor to your table with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for family, prepping ahead, or just treating yourself to something yummy and fresh, this dish will quickly become a beloved staple. Give it a try, and let the sweet, tangy glaze transport you to Hawaiian sunshine in every bite.

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