Print

Sweet Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

Sweet Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken
Print Recipe

Sweet Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken glazed with a tropical teriyaki sauce made from pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar. This family-friendly recipe bursts with sweet and tangy pineapple undertones and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Served best with rice, veggies, or noodles, it offers a delicious, island-inspired meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • Boneless chicken thighs or breasts (about 1.5 lbs)

Marinade & Sauce

  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp powdered ginger)
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

Add-ins

  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)

Garnish (optional)

  • Chopped green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade and Chicken: In a mixing bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar. Place chicken pieces in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor).
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a touch of oil. Remove chicken from the marinade (reserve the liquid) and cook the pieces until golden brown on each side, about 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness.
  3. Make the Sauce: Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet with the chicken. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the chicken beautifully.
  4. Add Pineapple and Finish: Toss in the pineapple chunks and cook for 2 more minutes, allowing the fruit to warm through while retaining its juicy texture. Stir gently to combine flavors.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top for color and crunch. Serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or your favorite side.

Notes

  • Marinate longer (30 minutes to overnight) for more tender and flavorful chicken.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook chicken in batches if necessary to ensure proper searing.
  • Use fresh garlic and ginger whenever possible for better flavor.
  • If the sauce is too thin, thicken by mixing 1 teaspoon cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the sauce.
  • Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar or pineapple juice to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet, teriyaki chicken, Hawaiian, pineapple, quick dinner, weeknight meal, family friendly, tropical, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/sweet-hawaiian-teriyaki-chicken/