Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner idea, this Teriyaki Grilled Chicken is a perfect choice. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce made with soy sauce and brown sugar, then grilled to perfection with a caramelized glaze. 

Paired with grilled pineapple slices and steamed rice, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for summer barbecues or cozy indoor meals. The smoky flavor from the grill and the sticky glaze make it irresistible. Garnish with green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch. 

This recipe is simple enough for beginners but packed with flavor for everyone to enjoy.

For more summer grilling ideas, check out our Grilled Vegetable Skewers Recipe.

Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Recipe - Quick and Tasty Chicken Recipes

Ingredients

To make this flavorful Teriyaki Grilled Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Here’s the equipment you’ll need to prepare this recipe:

Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Recipe - Easy Recipes for BBQ Nights

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Teriyaki Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon grated ginger. 

Use a whisk to mix until the sugar dissolves completely. This creates a sweet, tangy, and savory marinade that will soak into the chicken thighs for maximum flavor.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour three-quarters of the teriyaki marinade over the chicken, reserving the remaining marinade for the glaze. 

Seal the bag or cover the dish, and gently massage the marinade into the chicken to ensure it’s fully coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor. 

Turn the chicken occasionally to evenly distribute the marinade.

3. Prepare the Teriyaki Glaze

Pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan and place it over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water to create a slurry. Once the marinade begins to simmer, slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry. 

Continue stirring for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze. Remove from heat and set aside for basting during grilling.

4. Cook the Rice

While the chicken marinates, prepare 2 cups of white rice using a rice cooker or a medium pot. For stovetop cooking, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. 

Add the rice and 3 cups of water to the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.

5. Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). If using a grill pan indoors, heat it over medium-high heat until hot. 

Lightly oil the grill grates or pan with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. A properly heated grill ensures those beautiful grill marks and a smoky flavor.

6. Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and shake off excess liquid. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. 

During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush the chicken generously with the prepared teriyaki glaze using a basting brush. Flip and glaze the other side, allowing the glaze to caramelize slightly. 

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.

7. Grill the Pineapple Slices

Place 4 fresh pineapple slices on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the pineapple softens slightly. 

The heat enhances the pineapple’s natural sweetness, making it a perfect complement to the savory chicken. Remove from the grill and set aside.

8. Garnish and Serve

Slice the grilled chicken thighs into strips if desired. Serve the chicken over a bed of steamed rice, topped with a grilled pineapple slice. 

Sprinkle with sliced green onions and optional sesame seeds for a fresh and crunchy garnish. Drizzle any remaining teriyaki glaze over the top for extra flavor.

Nutritional Facts

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 12g (4g saturated)
  • Carbohydrates: 60g (20g sugars)
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 1200mg

These values may vary slightly depending on portion size and specific brands of ingredients. For a lighter option, use low-sodium soy sauce or reduce the amount of brown sugar.

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Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Recipe - Perfect for Outdoor Cooking

Variations to Try

  • Spicy Teriyaki Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
  • Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Cube the chicken thighs and thread onto skewers with pineapple chunks and bell peppers for a fun presentation.
  • Vegetarian Teriyaki Tofu: Swap chicken for tofu and marinate for 1 hour. Grill or pan-sear for a plant-based version. Try our Tofu and Veggie Stir-Fry Recipe for another tofu idea.
  • Low-Sugar Option: Replace brown sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia to reduce sugar content.
  • Oven-Baked Version: If you don’t have a grill, bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, brushing with glaze halfway through.

Read Also: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe

Serving Suggestions

This Teriyaki Grilled Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

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Storage and Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftover chicken and rice in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep pineapple slices in a separate container to maintain freshness.
  • Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheating: Reheat chicken in a microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep it moist. Warm rice in the microwave or a saucepan with a little water.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

  • Chicken Thighs: A great source of protein, supporting muscle growth and repair. They also provide iron and zinc for energy and immune health. Learn more about Health Benefits of Zinc.
  • Pineapple: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, pineapple aids digestion and reduces inflammation due to its enzyme bromelain.
  • Soy Sauce: Contains antioxidants and small amounts of minerals like manganese. Opt for low-sodium versions to manage salt intake.
  • Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, ginger may also help reduce nausea and improve immunity.
  • Garlic: Offers antimicrobial properties and supports heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs. They are leaner but may dry out faster, so reduce grilling time to 4-5 minutes per side and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Marinating longer can help keep them juicy.

2. How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce. Double-check that all other ingredients, like cornstarch, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

3. Can I Cook This Indoors Without a Grill?

Absolutely! Use a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat or bake the chicken in an oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, brushing with glaze halfway through. A cast-iron skillet also works well for searing.

4. How Do I Prevent the Chicken from Sticking to the Grill?

Oil the grill grates with vegetable oil before preheating, and ensure the grill is hot before adding the chicken. Avoid moving the chicken too soon to allow a sear to form, which helps release it from the grates.

5. Can I Make the Teriyaki Sauce Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a saucepan before using as a glaze.

Final Thoughts

This Teriyaki Grilled Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together sweet, savory, and smoky notes in every bite. Perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner, it’s versatile and easy to customize. 

The sticky teriyaki glaze, juicy chicken thighs, and sweet grilled pineapple make it a meal your family and friends will love. Plus, with the health benefits of ingredients like ginger and garlic, you can feel good about serving it. 

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Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Recipe