Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are a quick, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for grilling or baking. This dish features juicy chicken breasts marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, paired with tropical pineapple and colorful veggies. The foil packet method locks in all the flavors, making cleanup a breeze and delivering a delicious, tender meal every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packet recipe is the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. The foil packets keep the chicken moist and tender while infusing it with the sweetness of pineapple and the rich, savory taste of teriyaki. Whether you’re grilling on a summer evening or baking in the oven, this dish is both easy and fun to prepare. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, meaning minimal cleanup and maximum flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat or the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in a shallow dish. Pour the teriyaki marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Cut four large squares of aluminum foil, each large enough to wrap around one chicken breast and its toppings.
- Drizzle each square of foil with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place one chicken breast in the center of each foil square.
- Top the chicken with pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and red onion slices.
- Spoon a little more teriyaki sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
- Fold the sides of the foil over the chicken and veggies, then fold the top and bottom edges to seal the packet.
- Place the foil packets on the grill or in the oven. Grill for 25-30 minutes or bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Carefully open the foil packets (watch out for steam!) and serve the chicken and vegetables, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Variations
- Add More Vegetables: You can include other vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms in the foil packets for extra color and flavor.
- Use Chicken Thighs: Substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
- Spicy Teriyaki: Add extra heat by incorporating sriracha or chili paste into the teriyaki marinade.
- Grill Pineapple First: For an even more intense pineapple flavor, grill the pineapple chunks before adding them to the packet.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover foil packet meals in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken and vegetables in the microwave or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
Can I make these foil packets ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the foil packets in advance. Simply assemble the packets, refrigerate them, and cook them within 24 hours.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be considered fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
It’s best to thaw frozen chicken breasts before marinating and cooking. If you need to use frozen chicken, ensure it’s fully thawed in the fridge before placing it in the foil packets.
What other fruits can I add to the foil packets?
You can add other tropical fruits like mango or peaches for a sweet twist, or even toss in some berries for a different flavor profile.
Is it possible to cook these foil packets in the oven instead of the grill?
Yes! You can bake the foil packets in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes. The chicken will cook perfectly in either method.
Can I make this recipe without pineapple?
If you prefer, you can omit the pineapple and use other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a different flavor combination.
What type of teriyaki sauce should I use?
You can use store-bought teriyaki sauce or make your own using soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. If you want to control the sweetness, opt for a low-sugar teriyaki sauce.
How do I make the chicken more flavorful?
Marinate the chicken for a longer period to allow the flavors to soak in. For extra depth of flavor, try adding some sesame oil or rice vinegar to the marinade.
Can I add rice to the foil packets?
Yes, you can add cooked rice to the foil packets for a complete meal. Make sure to include a bit more marinade or a splash of water to keep the rice from drying out during cooking.
Can I use a different protein in these foil packets?
Yes, you can use fish fillets like salmon, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose.
Conclusion
Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are the ultimate combination of ease, flavor, and convenience. With minimal prep time and minimal cleanup, this recipe is a perfect choice for busy nights or casual get-togethers. The sweetness of pineapple, the savory teriyaki, and the tender chicken come together in a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Whether grilling or baking, these foil packets will become a go-to recipe in your meal rotation!
Print
Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Grilled, One-Pan Meal
- Method: Grilling, Baking
- Cuisine: American, Asian Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are an easy and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for grilling or baking. Juicy chicken breasts marinated in a savory teriyaki sauce are paired with sweet pineapple, bell peppers, and onions, creating a delicious and colorful dish. The foil packet method locks in moisture, keeping the chicken tender and infusing it with bold flavors. This simple and fun recipe ensures minimal cleanup and maximum flavor in every bite, making it ideal for busy nights or outdoor cookouts.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat or the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in a shallow dish. Pour the teriyaki marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours).
- Cut four large squares of aluminum foil, each large enough to wrap around one chicken breast and its toppings.
- Drizzle each square of foil with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place one chicken breast in the center of each foil square.
- Top the chicken with pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and red onion slices.
- Spoon a little more teriyaki sauce over the chicken and vegetables.
- Fold the sides of the foil over the chicken and veggies, then fold the top and bottom edges to seal the packet.
- Place the foil packets on the grill and cook for 25-30 minutes or bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Carefully open the foil packets (watch out for steam!) and serve the chicken and vegetables, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
- Variations: Add more vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for extra color and flavor.
- Spicy Teriyaki: Add sriracha or chili paste for a spicy kick in the teriyaki marinade.
- Grilled Pineapple: For an even more intense pineapple flavor, grill the pineapple chunks before adding them to the foil packets.
- Storage/Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
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