Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets: Sweet, Savory, and Easy

Looking for a quick, flavorful meal that requires minimal cleanup? Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are the perfect solution. Juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and vibrant veggies are wrapped in foil, then baked or grilled to perfection. Each packet locks in juices and flavor, making it tender, delicious, and perfectly portioned.

This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, camping trips, or meal prep. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can swap vegetables, add extra spice, or serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Prep and bake in under 30 minutes.
Minimal cleanup: Foil packets mean no messy pans.
Healthy and balanced: Lean protein, vegetables, and fruit in one meal.
Customizable: Change veggies, protein, or sauce to suit your taste.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 small red onion, sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon minced garlic
½ teaspoon ground ginger or 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven or Grill

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat your grill to medium-high.

2. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

3. Assemble Foil Packets

Cut 4 large sheets of aluminum foil (about 12×12 inches each).
Divide chicken, pineapple, bell peppers, and onion evenly among the foil sheets.
Pour sauce over each portion.
Fold foil to create a sealed packet, making sure edges are tightly closed to trap steam.

4. Cook

Oven: Place packets on a baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
Grill: Place packets on the grill and cook for 18–20 minutes, turning once halfway through.

5. Serve

Carefully open packets (steam will be hot!). Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Foil Packets

Use fresh or frozen pineapple for the best flavor.
Don’t overfill packets — allow space for steam to circulate.
Check doneness with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooked chicken.
Foil packets can also be prepared ahead and refrigerated until cooking.
Add extra veggies like zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas for variety.

Variations

Spicy Teriyaki Chicken: Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce.
Beef or Shrimp Version: Substitute chicken with thinly sliced beef or shrimp; adjust cooking time accordingly.
Pineapple-Free: Replace pineapple with orange slices or mango chunks for a different tropical twist.
Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over steamed white or brown rice.
Pair with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
Enjoy with steamed broccoli or bok choy for extra greens.
Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or chopped cilantro for a restaurant-style finish.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet or microwave, or even in a foil packet in the oven to retain moisture.
Foil packets can be frozen before cooking; bake directly from frozen, adding 5–10 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Why This Recipe Works

Foil packets lock in moisture and flavor, creating tender chicken and perfectly cooked vegetables. The combination of sweet pineapple, savory teriyaki sauce, and aromatic garlic and ginger makes every bite vibrant and satisfying. Minimal prep, simple cleanup, and flexible ingredients make this a weeknight favorite or easy meal prep option.

Final Thoughts

Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and juicy, making them a family-friendly, fuss-free dinner. They are versatile enough to adapt to your pantry and preferences while delivering bright, delicious flavor every time.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal, a picnic, or a camping adventure, these foil packets are easy, flavorful, and sure to impress.