Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the islands right to your kitchen. With its sweet and savory flavors, it’s perfect for grilling during summer barbecues or cozy family dinners. This recipe is not only simple to make but also allows for customization to suit your taste preferences, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 24 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 310
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 800mg
Why Make Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken
Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken stands out for its balance of flavor and healthiness. The teriyaki sauce combined with pineapple juice gives it a delightful sweetness that pairs well with the richness of chicken thighs or breasts. The ingredients are clean and wholesome, making this dish a nourishing option for any meal. Additionally, this recipe is versatile—you can serve it with a variety of sides like rice, salad, or grilled vegetables, making it adapt perfectly to your dietary needs and preferences.
How to Make Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken Step by Step
Ingredients
6 chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup teriyaki sauce
1/2 cup pineapple juice
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
Green onions, for garnish
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Directions
- In a bowl, mix together teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger.
- Marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Brush additional marinade on the chicken while grilling for extra flavor.
- Remove from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

How to Serve Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken
Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken is fantastic served over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or with a fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. You can also pair it with grilled vegetables for a perfect summer meal. For an added touch, consider serving it with a side of coleslaw to complement the smokey flavors of the grilled chicken.
How to Store Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken
To store any leftovers of Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, use a microwave or sauté the chicken in a skillet with a splash of water to maintain moisture. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the marinated chicken before grilling; it will keep well for up to three months.
Expert Tips for Cooking Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken
- Make sure to marinate the chicken overnight to intensify the flavors.
- Use skinless chicken thighs for a healthier option.
- Keep a close eye on the grill to prevent flare-ups.
- Consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for extra freshness.
- Try using a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken.
Delicious Variations of Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken
For those who like a little heat, try adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy twist. If you’re looking to keep it vegetarian, you can substitute chicken with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms, which absorb the marinade beautifully and grill well. For a refreshing citrus flavor, add the zest of a lime or orange to the marinade, giving it a whole new tangy dimension.
Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken is a must-try for your dinner table. It’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the tropical vibes and let this delicious recipe brighten your meal!

Hawaiian Turn Turn Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 pieces chicken thighs or breasts Use skinless for a healthier option.
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
Garnishes
- Green onions For garnish.
- Sesame seeds For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, mix together teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger.
- Marinate the chicken in the sauce for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Cooking
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Brush additional marinade on the chicken while grilling for extra flavor.
- Remove from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
