Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Recipe | Hawaiian Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

PUBLISHED June 25, 2025· MODIFIED June 25, 2025 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1255 words. · About 7 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

If you’re a fan of tender, juicy chicken marinated in a rich, sweet, and savory teriyaki glaze, this Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe is a must-try. It’s the perfect blend of smoky, charred goodness and bold flavors, making it an ideal dish for weeknight dinners, summer barbecues, or meal prep. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish that’s bound to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Great Grill Recipe

Flavorful. The marinade infuses the chicken with an irresistible combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
Easy. A simple marinade and quick grilling make this recipe a breeze.
Versatile. Serve it with rice, noodles, or vegetables for a complete meal.
Family-Friendly. A crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or a beginner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

What Does Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Taste Like?

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a classic for a reason. The smoky char from the grill complements the sweet and tangy teriyaki glaze, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that’s hard to resist.

It’s the kind of dish that feels both indulgent and healthy, perfect for any occasion.

Is It Healthy?

When made with a mindful balance of ingredients, Grilled Chicken Teriyaki is a healthy and delicious choice, offering a mix of protein, nutrients, and satisfying flavors without excessive calories or unhealthy fats.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what each ingredient contributes when making Grilled Teriyaki Chicken:

Chicken Thighs– The star of the dish. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill, while breasts provide a leaner option. Both absorb the marinade beautifully for maximum flavor.
Soy Sauce– The cornerstone of the teriyaki marinade, delivering a salty, umami-rich base that enhances the overall savory profile.
Brown Sugar– Adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the saltiness of the soy sauce, while helping the chicken caramelize as it grills for a delectable crust.
Garlic & Ginger– These aromatics provide depth and complexity, infusing the chicken with savory warmth and a hint of spice that complements the other ingredients.
Rice Vinegar– Balances the sweetness with a subtle tangy note, adding a bright contrast to the richer flavors in the marinade.
Sesame Oil– Introduces a nutty, toasty flavor that enhances the Asian-inspired taste of the dish.
Cornstarch & Water– Used to create a slurry, this thickens the reserved marinade into a luscious, glossy glaze to coat the grilled chicken perfectly.

How To Make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Prepare the Marinade. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until combined. Reserve half of the mixture for basting and glaze.
Marinate the Chicken. Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 8 hours.
Preheat the Grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the Chicken. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, basting with the reserved marinade during the last few minutes of cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Thicken the Glaze. While the chicken grills, bring the reserved marinade to a boil in a small saucepan. Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and simmer until thickened.
Serve and Garnish. Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter. Drizzle with the thickened teriyaki glaze and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Tips And Tricks

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that can be perfected with a few helpful tips and tricks. Follow these suggestions to ensure your chicken turns out tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor:

Don’t Over-Marinate. While marinating enhances flavor, leaving the chicken too long in the marinade can cause the meat to become mushy.
Oil the Grill Grates. Prevent sticking by brushing the grates with oil before grilling.
Use a Meat Thermometer. This ensures perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Double the Sauce. Make extra teriyaki glaze to drizzle over rice or veggies.

Variations

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes, dietary needs, and cooking styles. Here are some creative and delicious variations to try:

Spicy- Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the marinade for a kick.
Pineapple- Grill pineapple rings alongside the chicken for a tropical twist.
Low-Sodium- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the saltiness.
Gluten-Free– Substitute tamari for soy sauce.

What To Eat With Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides that complement its savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. Here are some delicious options to round out your meal:

Steamed Jasmine Rice– A classic pairing to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Stir-Fried Vegetables– Add a colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas.
Asian Slaw– A tangy, crunchy side dish that complements the sweetness of the chicken.
Noodles– Toss soba or udon noodles in sesame oil and soy sauce for a quick side.

How Long Does It Last?

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain its tenderness.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes! Freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it according to the instructions listed above before serving.

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