Hawaiian-Style BBQ Teriyaki Chicken offers a tantalizing blend of sweet and savory flavors, combining the essence of traditional teriyaki sauce with a touch of Hawaiian flair. This recipe transforms simple chicken thighs into tender, succulent delights that are perfect for grilling, frying, or baking. Whether you’re hosting a backyard luau or craving a taste of the tropics, this dish is sure to transport your taste buds to paradise.

Why Make Hawaiian-Style BBQ Teriyaki Chicken

Hawaiian-Style BBQ Teriyaki Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of island cuisine. The marinade infuses the chicken with layers of flavor, creating juicy, caramelized meat that is irresistible to both young and old alike. Whether served as a main course, sliced over a salad, or tucked into a sandwich, this dish brings a taste of aloha to any meal.

How to Make Hawaiian-Style BBQ Teriyaki Chicken

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, sugar, grated ginger, grated garlic, sesame oil, MSG (optional), and chopped green onions. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the sauce mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for 4-24 hours, covered, in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Cook the Chicken: Grill or fry the marinated chicken thighs for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are thoroughly cooked. Alternatively, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Hawaiian-Style BBQ Teriyaki Chicken with steamed white rice, grilled pineapple slices, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an authentic island-inspired meal. Alternatively, slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens with a drizzle of teriyaki sauce for a light and flavorful salad.

Storage Info

Store any leftover Hawaiian-Style BBQ Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.

Tips and Techniques

For extra flavor, grill the chicken over charcoal or wood chips for a smoky finish.
To prevent flare-ups on the grill, brush the chicken with oil before cooking and avoid overcrowding the grill grates.
Customize the marinade to suit your taste preferences by adjusting the sweetness, saltiness, or spiciness to your liking.

Variation

Experiment with different protein options such as pork, beef, or tofu to create a variety of teriyaki-inspired dishes. You can also add pineapple juice, orange juice, or rice vinegar to the marinade for a tangy twist.

FAQs about Hawaiian-Style BBQ Teriyaki Chicken

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs? Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for chicken thighs if preferred. However, be mindful of the cooking time as chicken breast tends to cook faster and can dry out more easily.
Is MSG necessary for the marinade? No, MSG is optional and can be omitted if desired. The other ingredients in the marinade still provide plenty of flavor.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken? Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking for best results.

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