Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors. This dish features boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in rich teriyaki sauce, grilled to perfection, and topped with caramelized pineapple, red bell pepper, and red onion. The combination of juicy grilled chicken and the tropical sweetness of pineapple makes this dish a perfect choice for a summer cookout or a family dinner. Easy to make, yet packed with bold flavors, Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

This recipe brings a taste of the islands to your backyard, thanks to the tangy teriyaki sauce and grilled pineapple. The addition of fresh vegetables like red bell peppers and onions gives the dish an extra layer of flavor and texture. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or cooking for your family, this dish offers a satisfying meal that’s both light and filling. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can be served with a variety of sides such as rice, salads, or grilled vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious fusion of sweet and savory, and it’s as simple as it is flavorful. The teriyaki marinade infuses the chicken with a rich umami flavor, while the grilled pineapple adds a juicy sweetness. The bell peppers and onions provide a crunchy, savory contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile. This dish is perfect for those who love vibrant, tropical-inspired meals with minimal effort. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or summer barbecues.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Teriyaki sauce
Pineapple rings (canned or fresh)
Red bell pepper, sliced
Red onion, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is easily customizable to suit your tastes:

Add a little heat by brushing the chicken with a bit of chili sauce or sprinkling red pepper flakes into the marinade.
Use fresh pineapple instead of canned for a more vibrant, natural sweetness.
Substitute the vegetables: Feel free to add grilled zucchini, mushrooms, or even snap peas to the mix for a different flavor.
Try different marinades: If you’re craving a unique twist, you can substitute the teriyaki sauce with a honey garlic marinade or a mango-based marinade for even more tropical flavor.
Grill with skewers: For a fun presentation, you can cube the chicken and grill it with vegetables and pineapple on skewers.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken breasts. Make sure the chicken is fully coated, then cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For maximum flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

While the chicken is marinating, preheat the grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C).

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Once the grill is ready, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Grill the Vegetables

In the last few minutes of grilling, add the pineapple rings, sliced red bell pepper, and red onion to the grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred, and the pineapple is caramelized.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the grilled chicken topped with the grilled pineapple, bell pepper, and onion. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for an extra touch of flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t skip the marinating step: Marinating the chicken allows the teriyaki sauce to penetrate the meat, giving it more flavor.
Grill the vegetables with care: Make sure to grill the vegetables towards the end of the cooking process, so they don’t become overcooked or too soft.
Use a meat thermometer: For perfect, juicy chicken, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Don’t overcook the chicken: Chicken can dry out quickly on the grill, so monitor it closely and avoid grilling for too long.
Make sure your grill is clean: To prevent sticking, brush the grill grates with oil before placing the chicken and vegetables on them.

How to Serve

Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with steamed rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of grilled vegetables or a crisp green salad can complement the grilled flavors perfectly. For a complete Hawaiian-themed meal, try serving it with coconut rice or a tropical fruit salad on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the grilled chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover grilled chicken for up to 3 months. Wrap the chicken in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave for a few minutes, or warm it up on the grill or stovetop for the best results. If the chicken seems dry, add a splash of teriyaki sauce to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but it will require a longer cooking time. Be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked.

2. Can I use homemade teriyaki sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade teriyaki sauce will add a personal touch and can be customized to your taste.

3. Can I grill the vegetables first?

Yes, you can start grilling the vegetables before the chicken, just be sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook.

4. Can I substitute the bell pepper with other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to use other vegetables like zucchini, squash, or mushrooms for variety.

5. How can I make the chicken spicier?

Add chili flakes or a splash of sriracha to the teriyaki marinade for a spicy kick.

6. Can I cook this recipe on a stovetop?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and vegetables in a grill pan on the stovetop if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure you use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce.

8. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used, and it will add even more vibrant flavor to the dish.

9. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the teriyaki marinade up to a week ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

10. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and will offer a more flavorful, juicy result.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory taste of teriyaki-marinated chicken. The grilled vegetables add extra texture and flavor, making it a perfect meal for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is as delicious as it is simple. Try it today, and let the tropical flavors of Hawaii come to your dinner table!