Escape to the Tropics with This Easy Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken from Hawaii

The flavors of Hawaii are renowned for their vibrant fusion of sweet, savory, and tangy elements, all inspired by the island’s unique cultural blend. One dish that perfectly captures the essence of this culinary paradise is the Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken. It’s a dish that brings together the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the umami goodness of soy-based teriyaki sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both easy to prepare and irresistible to eat.

Photo byNick Davies

Hawaii’s cuisine is heavily influenced by Japanese, Polynesian, and Western flavors, and this recipe beautifully marries them in a way that feels like a mini vacation on your plate. Whether you're craving a laid-back dinner or something special to serve at a weekend gathering, this Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken will transport you straight to the Hawaiian islands.

Recipe: Hawaiian Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks (in juice)
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger to create a marinade.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over the chicken. Reserve the other half for later. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discarding the used marinade) and cook the chicken thighs for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
4. While the chicken is cooking, add the pineapple chunks and the reserved marinade to the skillet during the last few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the pineapple to caramelize slightly.
5. Once the chicken is fully cooked and coated in the pineapple teriyaki sauce, serve it over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a delicious meal.

The Island Vibe

This Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken isn’t just about flavor—it’s about experience. The combination of tender chicken and the sweet, caramelized pineapple brings a burst of tropical energy to your kitchen. The addition of garlic and ginger keeps the flavors from being overly sweet, while the rich teriyaki sauce gives the dish a savory depth.

Whether you're dreaming of a beach vacation or simply want to enjoy the flavors of Hawaii, this dish brings a little piece of paradise right to your table. Pair it with some steamed jasmine rice or even a light salad, and you've got a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

Sources:

Family Recipe