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Sweet Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

Sweet Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken

Experience the tropical sweetness and savory depth of Sweet Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken, a quick and easy dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a flavorful homemade teriyaki sauce with pineapple chunks. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining, this recipe balances sweet, tangy, and savory elements for a comforting meal that adapts to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 chicken thighs or breasts (skin-on or skinless)

Teriyaki Sauce

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (cornstarch slurry)
  • 12 tablespoons cooking oil (for skillet)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and honey in a bowl until the sugar dissolves. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken thighs or breasts on each side until golden, about 5 minutes per side, ensuring they are nearly cooked through.
  3. Add Pineapple and Sauce: Stir in pineapple chunks and pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Lower heat to medium and let simmer gently so the chicken absorbs the flavors.
  4. Thicken the Glaze: Mix the cornstarch slurry and slowly pour into the skillet while stirring constantly. Cook until the sauce thickens to a glossy finish.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Once the sauce reaches desired consistency and chicken is fully cooked, remove from heat and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes beforehand to deepen flavor.
  • Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best taste.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook chicken in batches if necessary to ensure a good sear.
  • Adjust sweetness by adding more sugar or honey to taste.
  • Allow cooked chicken to rest briefly to retain juiciness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Sweet Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken, Teriyaki chicken recipe, pineapple chicken, easy chicken dinner, tropical chicken dish, gluten-free teriyaki