Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: A Tropical Delight

Introduction

Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and savory marinade. Perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners, this recipe offers a taste of the islands with every bite.

Ingredients

3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 1/2 cups soy sauce
1 1/2 cups white sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup mirin
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tsp black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix cornstarch and soy sauce until smooth. Add white sugar, brown sugar, mirin, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Pound the chicken thighs to an even thickness and poke them with a fork to help the marinade penetrate. Place the chicken in the marinade and refrigerate overnight for the best flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and nicely charred.
4. Heat the Sauce: While the chicken is grilling, heat the remaining marinade in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens into a sauce, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve: Serve the grilled chicken over rice, drizzling with the thickened teriyaki sauce. Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people and takes about 30 minutes of active cooking time, plus overnight marinating.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Grill some bell peppers or zucchini alongside the chicken for added color and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy version.
• Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with salmon or tofu for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until warmed through or reheat on a grill or skillet over medium heat.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may dry out more easily than thighs.
2. How long can I marinate the chicken? Marinating overnight is ideal, but you can marinate for at least 4 hours if short on time.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the marinade and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
4. What should I serve with this dish? It pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free? To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
6. Can I grill the chicken on a stovetop grill pan? Yes, a stovetop grill pan works well if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
7. How do I know when the chicken is done? The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) when fully cooked.
8. Can I freeze the marinated chicken? Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.
9. What can I use instead of mirin? You can substitute mirin with a mix of sake and sugar or use rice vinegar with a bit of sugar.
10. How can I make this recipe healthier? Reduce the amount of sugar in the marinade or use a sugar substitute.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. With its sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking inside, this recipe is a perfect way to enjoy a flavorful meal. Enjoy your culinary journey to Hawaii!

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