Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Recipe – Sweet, Savory, and Irresistible

If you’re looking for a flavorful, island-inspired dinner, this Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a must-try! Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a rich homemade teriyaki sauce, grilled to perfection, and served with extra sauce, green onions, and sesame seeds. Perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, this recipe is both authentic and easy to follow.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

• Authentic Flavor – Inspired by classic Hawaiian BBQ flavors with soy sauce, mirin, ginger, and garlic.

• Juicy & Tender – Boneless chicken thighs soak up the marinade for maximum flavor.

• Versatile Serving – Serve over rice, with grilled pineapple, or in a bowl with veggies.

• Family-Friendly – A dish loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

You’ll need these fresh and pantry staples:

• 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 1 ½ cups soy sauce or tamari sauce

• 1 ½ cups white sugar

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• ¾ cup mirin (sweet rice wine, not rice vinegar)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger

• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional toppings:

• Thinly sliced green onions

• Toasted sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and soy sauce until smooth.

2. Add white sugar, brown sugar, mirin, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.

3. Stir well until all ingredients are fully combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.

2. Trim excess fat.

3. Place the chicken between cling wrap sheets and pound with a meat mallet until about ½ inch thick.

4. Use a fork to poke small holes in the chicken for better marinade absorption.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place chicken in a large bowl or baking pan.

2. Pour enough marinade to coat all pieces completely.

3. Cover and refrigerate overnight (flip chicken halfway for even flavor).

4. Store unused, clean marinade in an airtight container in the fridge.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from fridge 1 hour before cooking.

2. Heat grill to medium-high until hot and lightly greased.

3. Remove chicken from marinade (discard used marinade).

4. Grill for about 5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred.

5. Baste occasionally with marinade while grilling for extra flavor.

Step 5: Heat Extra Teriyaki Sauce

1. Pour unused, clean marinade into a saucepan.

2. Bring to a boil for 1 minute, stirring frequently until slightly thickened.

3. Adjust sweetness by adding extra sugar if desired.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Slice grilled chicken into strips.

2. Serve over steamed rice, salad greens, or grilled vegetables.

3. Drizzle with thickened teriyaki sauce.

4. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.

Expert Tips for the Best Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

• Use Chicken Thighs: They’re juicier and absorb more flavor than chicken breasts.

• Don’t Overcook: Remove chicken when it reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).

• Char is Key: A little caramelization from the grill enhances the sweet teriyaki flavor.

• Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

What to Serve with Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

Pair this dish with classic Hawaiian sides or simple add-ons:

• Steamed white or jasmine rice

• Grilled pineapple slices

• Macaroni salad

• Stir-fried vegetables

• Fresh green salad

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe brings together sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, preparing a family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. Serve it with rice and pineapple for a true Hawaiian-inspired meal.

 Try this recipe today and bring a taste of the islands to your kitchen!

enjoy!