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Flavorful Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

grilled pineapple teriyaki chicken thighs - featured image

A quick and easy grilled chicken thigh recipe featuring a sweet-savory pineapple teriyaki marinade that keeps the meat juicy and flavorful with a smoky char.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) fresh pineapple juice
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (6 g) fresh grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) rice vinegar (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon (1 g) freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and black pepper in a medium bowl until well combined.
  2. Place chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Seal and massage to coat all pieces. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours or overnight.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place thighs skin-side down on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes until skin is crisp and grill marks appear.
  5. Flip chicken and cook another 6-8 minutes. Occasionally brush with reserved marinade (discard any marinade that touched raw chicken).
  6. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
  7. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
  8. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.
  9. Serve warm with sides like steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or fresh salad.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating to help skin crisp. Marinate at least 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor. Keep grill lid closed to maintain heat and prevent flare-ups. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature. Do not reuse marinade that touched raw chicken; reserve some separately for basting.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, teriyaki chicken, pineapple chicken, BBQ chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, summer grilling, sweet and savory chicken