Name: Sweet Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Prep time: 4 h
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 4 h 16 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1½ pounds boneless and skinless chicken thighs; 1 cup soy sauce; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1 cup pineapple juice; 4 cloves chopped garlic; 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger

Sweet Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that brings together a balance of sweetness and umami. With juicy grilled chicken thighs marinated in a delightful mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger, this recipe is a hit for family dinners or summer cookouts. The marinade infuses the chicken with a rich flavor and a beautiful glaze that caramelizes perfectly on the grill. Imagine the sizzle as the chicken hits the grill, filling the air with an enticing aroma that draws everyone to the table. Whether you serve it alongside steamed rice or a fresh garden salad, this dish is sure to please. It’s ideal for warm evenings when you want something delicious without too much fuss.

Ingredients

1½ pounds boneless and skinless chicken thighs: Tender and flavorful, chicken thighs remain juicy when grilled, making them perfect for this dish.
1 cup soy sauce: This adds a savory depth and saltiness that enhances the overall flavor.
1 cup packed brown sugar: The sweetness from brown sugar balances the saltiness of the soy sauce and creates a lovely glaze on the chicken.
1 cup pineapple juice: Provides a tropical sweetness and acidity that tenderizes the chicken and adds a delightful flavor.
4 cloves chopped garlic: Gives the dish a robust aroma and depth of flavor.
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger: Adds a warming spice and a hint of freshness that complements the marinade beautifully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by placing the boneless and skinless chicken thighs in a large bowl or a gallon-sized Ziploc bag.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger until the sugar is fully dissolved, creating a luscious marinade.
Pour the marinade over the chicken. If using a Ziploc bag, ensure to squeeze out the air before sealing it. If using a bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours; overnight is best for maximum flavor.
When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade, but do not discard the marinade. Pour it into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 5-10 minutes until it reduces slightly and is safe for consumption.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and brush it with some of the hot marinade. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken has nice grill marks.
Once grilled, transfer your chicken to a baking dish, pour the remaining hot teriyaki sauce over the top, and serve while hot.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 4 hours (including marinating time)
Cook Time: 16 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 16 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 490 per serving

Tips, Storage & Variations

Cooking Tips: For a deeper char, try not to move the chicken too often while grilling. Let it sear to achieve those beautiful grill marks.
Storage: Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Advice: You can freeze the marinated chicken in the Ziploc bag before cooking. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and grill as directed.
Flavor Variations: For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade. You could also substitute the pineapple juice with orange juice for a slightly different fruity flavor.

FAQ Section

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can, but chicken breasts may dry out more easily. Cook them just until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 4 hours is recommended, but up to 24 hours will enhance the flavor even more.
Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Bake at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
What can I serve with teriyaki chicken?
Serve with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Can I substitute other sweeteners for brown sugar?
Yes, honey or maple syrup can be used, though you may need to adjust the amounts to taste.

Conclusion

This Sweet Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and bring a taste of your own backyard BBQ to life. For more delightful grilled options, check out this excellent recipe on The Modern Proper or explore Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Recipe by Butter Your Biscuit. Enjoy the cooking adventure!

Sweet Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Print Recipe

A mouthwatering dish featuring juicy grilled chicken thighs marinated in soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger for a perfect balance of sweetness and umami.

Author: amanda-lewis
Prep Time: 240 minutes
Cook Time: 16 minutes
Total Time: 256 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Asian
Diet: Gluten-free option available

Ingredients

Scale

1½ pounds boneless and skinless chicken thighs
1 cup soy sauce
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup pineapple juice
4 cloves chopped garlic
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger

Instructions

Start by placing the boneless and skinless chicken thighs in a large bowl or a gallon-sized Ziploc bag.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger until the sugar is fully dissolved, creating a luscious marinade.
Pour the marinade over the chicken. If using a Ziploc bag, ensure to squeeze out the air before sealing it. If using a bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 240 minutes; overnight is best for maximum flavor.
When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade, but do not discard the marinade. Pour it into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 5-10 minutes until it reduces slightly and is safe for consumption.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and brush it with some of the hot marinade. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken has nice grill marks.
Once grilled, transfer your chicken to a baking dish, pour the remaining hot teriyaki sauce over the top, and serve while hot.