HAWAIIAN STYLE TERIYAKI CHICKEN

1. Prepare the Marinade:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of soy sauce and 1 cup of water. Stir in 1 cup of sugar until fully dissolved.
• Add the crushed garlic cloves and the thin slices of ginger to the mixture.

2. Marinate the Chicken:

• Place the chicken thighs in the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. If necessary, adjust the amount of marinade to ensure the meat can be stirred freely.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a large, resealable plastic bag.
• Refrigerate for at least 24 hours, allowing the flavors to permeate the chicken. For best results, marinate for up to 3 days.

3. Grill the Chicken:

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the used marinade.
• Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the thighs and the heat of your grill.
• For added flavor and moisture, you can grill the chicken on high heat until browned and then transfer it to a pot placed on the grill. Add a bit of fresh teriyaki sauce to the pot and let the chicken steam, ensuring it becomes very tender and juicy.

4. Serve:

• Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
• Serve the grilled teriyaki chicken thighs with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips and Variations:

1. Extra Sauce:

• If you enjoy extra sauce with your meal, reserve some of the marinade before adding the raw chicken. Bring the reserved marinade to a boil in a small saucepan and cook for a few minutes to ensure it is safe to eat. Use this boiled marinade as a sauce for serving.

2. Garnishing:

• Garnish the grilled chicken with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a burst of flavor and color.

3. Sides:

• Pair the teriyaki chicken with a side of steamed or fried rice and a simple vegetable stir-fry for a complete meal.

4. Oven Method:

• If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the marinated chicken thighs in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with fresh teriyaki sauce halfway through baking for extra flavor.

Conclusion:

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Thighs are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that combines the sweet and savory elements of teriyaki with the smokiness of grilled chicken. By marinating the chicken for an extended period, you ensure that each bite is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the tender, juicy chicken with your favorite sides and savor the delicious flavors of homemade teriyaki.