This Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken recipe brings island flavors straight to your table. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a traditional teriyaki sauce with pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger—then grilled or pan-seared until caramelized and flavorful. Ideal for family dinners, summer cookouts, or meal prep, this easy and satisfying dish is a sweet-savory crowd-pleaser.
2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 cup pineapple juice
½ cup soy sauce
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
2 tbsp water (for slurry if using cornstarch)
Sesame seeds & sliced green onions (for garnish)
Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
Marinate Chicken: Place chicken in a ziplock bag or bowl, pour marinade over, seal, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cook Chicken: Grill over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Alternatively, pan-sear until golden and cooked.
Optional Sauce Thickening: Simmer leftover marinade in a small saucepan. Mix cornstarch and water, add to the sauce, and stir until thick.
Serve: Drizzle sauce over chicken and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Use chicken thighs for juicier results; chicken breasts can work but may dry out.
For more caramelization, finish on high heat for 1–2 minutes per side.
Serve with white rice or grilled pineapple slices.