Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

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Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

A sweet-savory tropical meal steamed to perfection inside foil for unbeatable flavor and zero mess.

Introduction

If you want dinner that’s easy to prepare, quick to clean up, and bursting with flavor, Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are your answer. This dish combines the juicy tenderness of chicken, the tangy sweetness of pineapple, and the deep umami of teriyaki sauce, all sealed in foil to steam together into a harmonious blend. Whether baked in the oven, cooked over a campfire, or grilled at a summer barbecue, these packets deliver a healthy, colorful, and flavorful meal with very little effort.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Packets

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more tenderness)
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Teriyaki Sauce (Homemade)

  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • ¼ cup pineapple juice (from the chunks)
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

For Garnish

  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Chopped green onions

Instructions

Step 1 – Make the Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar/honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
  2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  3. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2 – Prepare the Foil Packets

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat grill to medium-high.
  2. Tear 4 large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil (about 12–14 inches each).
  3. Place a chicken breast in the center of each sheet. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Top with pineapple chunks, sliced peppers, onions, and broccoli.
  5. Drizzle with olive oil and spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce over each.

Step 3 – Seal and Cook

  1. Fold the foil over the contents, sealing edges tightly to trap steam.
  2. Oven: Bake for 25–30 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  3. Grill: Cook for 15–18 minutes, turning once.

Step 4 – Serve

  1. Carefully open packets (beware of hot steam).
  2. Drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce.
  3. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Methods

  • For more flavor, marinate chicken in teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Add cooked rice or noodles to the foil for a complete one-packet meal.
  • Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or salmon for variety.
  • If you like spice, add a pinch of chili flakes or sliced fresh red chili.

History

Foil packet cooking began as a camping technique to prepare complete meals without pans, popularized in the mid-20th century among outdoor adventurers. Teriyaki sauce itself comes from Japan, where “teri” refers to the glossy shine from the sauce, and “yaki” means grilled or broiled. The pairing with pineapple became popular in Hawaii, blending Japanese teriyaki traditions with the state’s abundant tropical fruit, eventually spreading to backyard grilling culture in the mainland U.S.

Benefits

  • Quick Cleanup: Everything cooks in the foil—no pots to scrub.
  • Healthy: Steaming locks in nutrients and uses minimal oil.
  • Customizable: Adaptable to different proteins and veggies.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Assemble ahead and refrigerate until cooking.

Formation (Serving Ideas)

  • Serve packets directly on plates for rustic charm.
  • Pair with coconut rice, jasmine rice, or Asian-style noodles.
  • Serve with grilled corn or a fresh cucumber salad for balance.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are a celebration of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in a healthy, easy-to-make package. They’re perfect for family dinners, camping trips, or cookouts, offering both convenience and mouthwatering taste.

For the Lovers

  • Sweet & Savory Lovers: The perfect balance in every bite.
  • Grill Lovers: Ideal for BBQ season.
  • Easy-Cook Lovers: Minimal effort, maximum flavor.

Methods (Again)

  • Use parchment paper lining inside the foil if you prefer less aluminum contact.
  • Double the sauce recipe and serve extra on the side.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro for a brighter, fresher finish.

Conclusion (Again)

With its tropical pineapple sweetness, savory teriyaki depth, and juicy tender chicken, this foil packet dish delivers restaurant-level flavor with weeknight effort. Whether baked, grilled, or campfire-cooked, it’s a meal that will win hearts every time.

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