Introduction
Looking for an easy, tasty dinner that’s packed with flavor and perfect for the grill or oven? You’ll love Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets! This recipe combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, fresh veggies, and rich teriyaki sauce — all wrapped up in a foil packet for no-fuss cooking and cleanup.
It’s a great dish for family dinners, cookouts, or even camping trips. Since everything cooks together in one packet, the flavors blend beautifully, and the chicken stays tender and moist. Plus, it’s fun to make and even more fun to eat! Let’s get started with what you’ll need.
Ingredients – Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets
Here are the simple ingredients you’ll need to make Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks (drained if using canned)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 small red onion (sliced)
- 1 zucchini (sliced into rounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large pieces of aluminum foil
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
- ¼ cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
Step-by-Step Process – Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets
Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
- In a small saucepan, mix the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), garlic, and ginger.
- Heat over medium heat until it starts to bubble.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth.
- Add the cornstarch mix to the saucepan and stir well.
- Cook for 2-3 more minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Foil Packets
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (or preheat your grill to medium-high).
- Lay out four large pieces of foil (about 12×12 inches each).
- Lightly grease each piece with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray.
Step 3: Add the Ingredients
- Place one chicken breast in the center of each foil piece.
- Sprinkle a little salt and pepper over the chicken.
- Arrange the pineapple chunks, sliced bell peppers, onion, and zucchini around and on top of the chicken.
- Drizzle about 2–3 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce over each chicken packet.
Step 4: Seal the Packets
- Fold the foil over the ingredients and seal the edges tightly by folding them twice.
- Make sure the packets are closed well so steam doesn’t escape during cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Packets
- In the oven: Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- On the grill: Place directly on the grill and cook for 20–25 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the packets cool for a minute or two.
- Carefully open them — be cautious of the hot steam.
- Serve as-is or over rice for a fuller meal.
- Drizzle extra teriyaki sauce if desired.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Packet) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370–400 kcal |
| Protein | 30–35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25–30 g |
| Sugars | 15–18 g |
| Fat | 10–12 g |
| Fiber | 3–4 g |
| Sodium | 800–1000 mg |
| Cholesterol | 70–80 mg |
| Vitamin C | High (from bell peppers) |
| Calcium | Low |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Chicken thighs are juicier and full of flavor. Just make sure they are boneless and cook them fully.
Q2: Can I make these packets ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare and assemble the packets ahead, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q3: What other veggies can I add?
You can add mushrooms, broccoli, snap peas, or even corn. Just make sure everything is cut into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
Q4: Can I make this dish in the oven instead of the grill?
Yes! The oven works perfectly. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Let the leftovers cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Q6: Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be — just make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Final Thoughts
Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are a simple, healthy, and flavorful meal idea for busy nights or fun weekends. With fresh veggies, sweet pineapple, and tasty chicken, this dish brings a sweet and savory combo everyone will love. Best of all, there’s hardly any cleanup — just toss the foil!
Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping for a BBQ, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Try it once, and you’ll want to make it again and again!
