Craving a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that transports you straight to the sunny shores of Hawaii? Then look no further! This Hawaiian-style teriyaki chicken recipe is your ticket to a flavorful and satisfying meal, ready in under 30 minutes. It's a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy, making it a crowd-pleaser for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices. This healthy meal is packed with protein and flavor, offering a delicious alternative to takeout. Let's dive into this easy recipe and discover the magic of homemade cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple (optional, for garnish)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (For Maximum Flavor)
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, cornstarch, honey, ginger, garlic, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes, ensuring they are evenly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer for deeper flavor. This is a key step for achieving that truly delicious teriyaki taste!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, about 10-12 minutes. If you prefer a slightly crispier chicken, you can increase the heat towards the end of cooking.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Hawaiian-style teriyaki chicken immediately over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with fresh pineapple chunks, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds for an extra touch of Hawaiian flair. This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day!
Cooking Tips for Teriyaki Perfection:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a less sweet teriyaki sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar. Conversely, add more for a sweeter taste.
- Thicken the sauce: If the sauce is too thin after cooking, you can add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water to thicken it further.
- Get creative with your sides: Serve your teriyaki chicken with steamed broccoli, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Variations:
- Add some spice: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef for a different protein option.
- Grilled teriyaki chicken: Marinate the chicken and then grill it for a smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a delicious dish that’s quick to prepare and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Enjoy the taste of paradise!