Hawaiian-Style Teriyaki Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Island Delight

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the sugar dissolves. This will be your teriyaki marinade and glaze.
Reserve 1/4 cup of the marinade in a separate bowl for glazing the chicken during cooking. If you want a thicker glaze, dissolve 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water and add it to the remaining marinade. Stir well.
Marinate the Chicken:

Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but preferably 2-4 hours for the best flavor.
Cook the Chicken:

Grill Option: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discarding the used marinade) and grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the reserved marinade over the chicken for extra flavor and glaze.
Stovetop/Baking Option: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through. Alternatively, bake the marinated chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, basting with the reserved glaze halfway through cooking.
Make the Glaze (if thickening):

If you opted for the cornstarch slurry, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze. If you prefer a thinner sauce, skip this step and use the marinade as-is.
Serve:

Slice the chicken and drizzle with the thickened glaze (if using). Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve with steamed rice and your favorite sautéed or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving and Storage Tips: