Introduction
“I made this tonight and it is AMAZING! Tastes just like the restaurant. This recipe is from Longhorn Steakhouse. My Mom found the recipe in the paper. I love this dish at Longhorn’s and I was really excited to try it at home!.
In this article, we’ll show you how to make the best Hawaiian grilled teriyaki chicken with a simple yet powerful marinade, cooking tips for juicy results, and tasty serving ideas. Plus, we’ll explore the cultural influence of Hawaiian flavors and why this dish is so beloved around the world.
Why You’ll Love Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
- Authentic island flavor
- Easy-to-make marinade
- Perfect for meal prep or BBQs
- Kid-friendly and gluten-free options
- Pairs with rice, pineapple, and veggies
This recipe balances sweetness from brown sugar and pineapple juice with the umami richness of soy sauce and garlic — a harmony that makes it one of the best teriyaki chicken recipes for grilling.
The History Behind Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken
Hawaiian cuisine is a rich blend of Polynesian, Asian, and American influences. Teriyaki itself is a Japanese cooking method that involves glazing grilled meats with a sweet soy-based sauce. When Japanese immigrants brought teriyaki techniques to Hawaii, local ingredients like pineapple juice and brown sugar added a tropical twist.
Today, Hawaiian teriyaki chicken is a staple in Hawaiian plate lunches, luau celebrations, and modern backyard cookouts.
Ingredients for the Best Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
To get that classic sweet-and-savory flavor, you’ll need just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients.
Teriyaki Marinade:
- ½ cup soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred)
- ¼ cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (for caramelized sweetness)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar (adds balance)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (for nutty flavor)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, to thicken sauce)
Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (juicier and more flavorful than breasts)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
How to Make Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until combined. If you want a thicker sauce for glazing, mix in cornstarch and heat the marinade on the stovetop for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This step infuses the chicken with deep flavor and ensures tender, juicy bites.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Brush extra marinade over the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling to create a sticky, caramelized glaze.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Pro Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken on the Grill
- Use chicken thighs: They’re more forgiving on the grill and stay juicy.
- Don’t skip the marinade time: Overnight marination creates maximum flavor.
- Oil the grill grates: Prevents sticking and ensures beautiful grill marks.
- Baste wisely: Use reserved marinade or a cooked version to avoid contamination.
- Rest the meat: Always let grilled chicken rest 5 minutes before serving for optimal juiciness.
Side Dishes to Serve with Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Pair this dish with tropical or Asian-inspired sides to complete your meal:
- Steamed jasmine or coconut rice
- Grilled pineapple slices
- Macaroni salad (Hawaiian style)
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Mango cucumber slaw
These sides highlight the vibrant, sweet-savory profile of the chicken and bring out its island charm.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Hawaiian grilled teriyaki chicken stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap cooled chicken tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Leftovers are great in rice bowls, wraps, or even on top of a fresh green salad.
Make It a Meal Prep Winner
If you’re looking for easy meal prep ideas, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Double the batch and portion with rice and steamed veggies for a satisfying, balanced lunch throughout the week.
Use glass containers to keep your teriyaki chicken meal prep bowls fresh and flavorful. Drizzle extra sauce before reheating for added moisture.
Gluten-Free and Healthier Variations
If you’re looking to make it gluten-free, swap regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos. To reduce sugar, cut the brown sugar in half and use fresh pineapple juice with no added sugar.
For a leaner version, substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts — just watch the grilling time to avoid dryness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I cook this Hawaiian teriyaki chicken in the oven or stovetop?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or cook in a hot skillet for 6–7 minutes per side. You won’t get the smoky grill flavor, but it will still be delicious.
Q: Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce instead of homemade?
A: You can, but homemade gives you better control over flavor and ingredients. Bottled sauces can be too sweet or salty.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely! Kids love the sweet glaze and juicy chicken. Serve with rice and fruit for a well-balanced meal.
Q: What kind of grill works best?
A: Gas grills, charcoal grills, and even indoor grill pans work great. Just adjust the temperature and cooking time accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This is my favorite way to prepare Hawaiian grilled teriyaki chicken . I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as we do! If you do make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you — feel free to share your experience or any creative twists you added in the comments below. And don’t forget to follow along for more delicious, tested recipes. Happy cooking! 🍽️✨
Make it for your next BBQ party, weekly meal prep, or family dinner night — and enjoy the simple magic of Hawaiian cuisine.
