Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken brings together the sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavors that instantly feel like a tropical escape. Juicy chicken is coated in a glossy teriyaki glaze, balanced with hints of pineapple-style sweetness and umami depth, making every bite rich and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that feels comforting yet exciting, perfect for both casual weeknights and laid-back gatherings.

What makes this dish stand out is how effortlessly it delivers bold flavor. The sauce caramelizes beautifully on the chicken, creating a sticky exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Served with rice, grilled veggies, or even tucked into sandwiches, Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken easily adapts to whatever mood or meal you’re planning.

---

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

This Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is all about balance and simplicity. The sweetness of the sauce pairs perfectly with the savory chicken, creating a crowd-pleasing flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults. It’s easy to prepare, doesn’t require hard-to-find ingredients, and delivers restaurant-style results right from your own kitchen. Plus, it works just as well for meal prep as it does for a fresh, hot dinner.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Having the right tools makes preparing Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken smoother and more enjoyable. A sturdy cutting board and sharp knife ensure clean, even cuts of chicken for consistent cooking. A mixing bowl is essential for combining and marinating the sauce so every piece is well coated. Using a non-stick skillet or grill pan helps achieve that caramelized teriyaki glaze without sticking, while tongs allow you to turn the chicken gently and keep the glaze intact. Each tool plays a role in building flavor and maintaining texture throughout the cooking process.

---

Preparation Tips

Before cooking, allow the chicken to come to room temperature so it cooks evenly and stays juicy. Pat the chicken dry to help the teriyaki sauce cling better and caramelize properly. If time allows, letting the chicken rest briefly in the sauce deepens the flavor and creates a more pronounced glaze during cooking. Keep the heat at a controlled medium to avoid burning the sugars in the sauce while still achieving that signature glossy finish.

---

Ingredients for Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

Choosing quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference in Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken. Each component plays a role in building layers of flavor, from savory depth to that signature sweet glaze.

• Chicken thighs or chicken breasts: Thighs provide extra juiciness and richness, while breasts offer a leaner option with a clean bite.
• Soy sauce: Forms the salty, umami backbone of the teriyaki sauce.
• Brown sugar: Adds warmth and sweetness, helping the sauce caramelize beautifully.
• Honey or pineapple juice: Brings a tropical sweetness that defines the Hawaiian-style twist.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic enhances aroma and depth.
• Fresh ginger: Adds a subtle zing that balances the sweetness.
• Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar: Brightens the sauce and prevents it from becoming overly sweet.
• Sesame oil: Introduces a nutty finish and authentic Asian-inspired flavor.
• Cornstarch (optional): Helps thicken the sauce for a glossy, clingy texture.
• Water: Balances the sauce consistency.
• Green onions: Used as garnish for freshness and color.
• Sesame seeds: Add a mild crunch and visual appeal.

---

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken and cutting it into evenly sized pieces if needed. Uniform pieces ensure consistent cooking and prevent dry spots. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, which helps the sauce adhere better and encourages proper caramelization during cooking.

---

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey or pineapple juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved. This balance of salty, sweet, tangy, and aromatic elements creates the signature Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken flavor.

---

Step 3: Marinate for Maximum Flavor

Place the chicken into the sauce, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 20–30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinating for up to 8 hours in the refrigerator works exceptionally well. This step allows the chicken to absorb the sauce while staying tender.

---

Step 4: Heat the Cooking Surface

Preheat a non-stick skillet, grill pan, or outdoor grill over medium heat. Proper preheating ensures the chicken sears instead of steams, which is essential for developing that caramelized teriyaki glaze.

---

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess sauce to drip off, and place it onto the hot surface. Cook for several minutes on each side until the chicken is fully cooked and develops a rich, golden-brown exterior. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can prevent proper browning.

---

Step 6: Simmer and Glaze

Pour the remaining marinade into the pan and allow it to simmer gently. If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in a cornstarch slurry. Turn the chicken in the sauce as it reduces, coating each piece with a sticky, glossy glaze that defines Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken.

---

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest briefly. This helps retain juices and keeps the chicken tender. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds just before serving for added freshness, texture, and visual appeal.

---

Notes

Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is a flexible dish that adapts well to different cooking styles and preferences. You can prepare it on the stovetop, grill, or even bake it with excellent results. The sauce naturally thickens as it reduces, so patience during simmering pays off with a deep, glossy finish. Flavor continues to develop as the dish rests, making it even better when served slightly after cooking rather than straight off the heat.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

One common mistake is cooking the chicken over heat that’s too high, which can burn the sugars in the teriyaki sauce before the chicken is fully cooked. Another issue is skipping the resting time after cooking, causing juices to escape and leaving the chicken less tender. Overcrowding the pan is also problematic, as it leads to steaming instead of caramelization. Finally, adding thickener too early can result in a gummy sauce rather than a smooth, silky glaze.

---

Storage Instructions

Allow Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. When reheating, warm gently over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce and preserve moisture.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken offers a balanced mix of protein and flavor. A standard serving provides a good amount of protein for muscle support, moderate carbohydrates from the sauce, and controlled fat depending on the cut of chicken used. Sodium content can be adjusted by using low-sodium soy sauce, making this dish easier to fit into a variety of dietary plans.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well and provide a leaner result. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster than thighs.

Is Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken very sweet?

The sweetness is balanced by savory and tangy ingredients. You can easily adjust the sugar level to suit your taste.

Can I grill this recipe?

Absolutely. Grilling adds a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the teriyaki glaze.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 20–30 minutes is recommended, but several hours will deliver deeper flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it’s an excellent make-ahead dish and reheats well for quick meals.

What can I serve with Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken?

Steamed rice, grilled vegetables, stir-fried noodles, or fresh salads are all great options.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild sweetness and tender texture make it very appealing to kids.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute regular soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative like tamari.

---

Conclusion

Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful, reliable dish that brings together sweet, savory, and comforting elements in one easy recipe. Whether you’re preparing a quick family dinner or planning meals ahead, it delivers consistent results with minimal effort. Its versatility, bold flavor, and simple preparation make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

---

Print