Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

When you’re searching for a flavorful, easy-to-make meal with minimal cleanup, teriyaki chicken and pineapple foil packets fit the bill perfectly. Combining juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and the tropical sweetness of pineapple with a savory teriyaki glaze, these foil packets are a favorite for grilling, baking, or campfire cooking.

Their versatility and convenience make them ideal for weeknight dinners, summer barbecues, or outdoor adventures. If you’re looking to elevate your foil-packet game, learn to make your own teriyaki sauce or explore more summer grilling ideas.

Why Choose Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets?

Convenience Meets Flavor

  • No mess: Everything cooks in foil, making cleanup a breeze.
  • Perfectly balanced flavors: Sweet pineapple contrasts beautifully with the umami-rich teriyaki sauce.
  • Adaptable cooking methods: Can be grilled, baked, or cooked over a campfire.

Packed with Nutrition

  • High-protein meal: Chicken provides a lean, healthy source of protein.
  • Rich in vitamins: Pineapple and veggies add essential nutrients and antioxidants.
  • Customizable: Adjust ingredients to fit your dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients

  • 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
  • 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
  • 1 zucchini (cut into rounds)
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • ½ cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Add-Ins

  • Red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish.
  • Cooked jasmine rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to serve alongside.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Foil Packets

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

  • Cube chicken into even pieces for consistent cooking.
  • Slice vegetables evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
  • Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor, or drain canned pineapple thoroughly.

Step 2: Assemble the Packets

  1. Lay out a large sheet of aluminum foil (approximately 12×18 inches).
  2. Lightly grease the foil with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Layer chicken, pineapple, and vegetables in the center.
  4. Drizzle 2–3 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce over the mixture.
  5. Sprinkle with optional red chili flakes for heat.

Step 3: Seal the Foil Packets

  • Fold the foil over the ingredients and crimp the edges tightly to seal.
  • Ensure there’s some space inside the packet for steam to circulate.

Cooking Methods: Grill, Oven, or Campfire

Grilling

  • Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 400°F).
  • Place packets on the grill and cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Baking

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F.
  • Arrange packets on a baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes.

Campfire Cooking

  • Place packets over hot coals and cook for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally.

Tips for Success

  • Double-layer foil: For grilling or campfire cooking, use two layers of foil to prevent leaks.
  • Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
  • Don’t overfill: Leave enough room in the packets for proper steam circulation.

Recipe Variations to Try

1. Vegetarian Option

Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based twist.

2. Low-Carb Version

Skip the rice and add extra low-carb vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or cauliflower.

3. Spicy Teriyaki

Stir Sriracha or chili garlic paste into the teriyaki sauce for extra heat.

4. Sweet and Sour Twist

Add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice to the teriyaki sauce for a tangy flavor boost.

Pairing Suggestions

Sides

  • Jasmine Rice: Classic and aromatic, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
  • Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb, nutrient-rich alternative.
  • Stir-Fried Noodles: Add even more flavor and texture to your meal.

Drinks

  • Pair with iced green tea for a refreshing, palate-cleansing beverage.
  • A fruity mocktail, like pineapple fizz, complements the dish’s tropical flavors.

Desserts

FAQs About Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

1. Can I Use Canned Pineapple?

Yes, but make sure to drain the juice thoroughly to prevent soggy packets.

2. What Vegetables Work Best?

Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, carrots, and broccoli are great options because they cook quickly and retain their texture.

3. Can I Assemble the Packets in Advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up to 24 hours ahead and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

4. Can I Freeze Leftovers?

Yes, cooked packets can be stored in an airtight container and frozen for up to 2 months.

5. How Do I Prevent Foil Packets from Burning?

Avoid placing the packets directly over high flames, and consider using double layers of foil for added protection.

Conclusion

Teriyaki chicken and pineapple foil packets are an unbeatable combination of simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a summer barbecue, or a camping trip, these packets are sure to impress.

Ready to enjoy this sweet and savory feast? Pair it with summer grilling recipes or make your own teriyaki sauce for an added homemade touch. Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill or oven, and savor a meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is to devour!

Print
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Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

Discover how to make teriyaki chicken and pineapple foil packets with tender chicken, fresh pineapple, and vibrant veggies. Perfect for grilling or baking

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 23 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, cut into rounds
  • 1 cup mushrooms (optional)
  • ½ cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Add-Ins

  • Red chili flakes for heat
  • Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
  • Cooked jasmine rice or quinoa for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Ingredients

  1. Cube chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Slice vegetables evenly for consistent cooking.
  3. Use fresh pineapple for best results, or thoroughly drain canned pineapple.

Step 2: Assemble the Packets

  1. Lay out a large sheet of aluminum foil (about 12×18 inches).
  2. Lightly grease the foil with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Layer chicken, pineapple, and vegetables in the center.
  4. Drizzle 2–3 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce over the mixture.
  5. Sprinkle with red chili flakes, if desired.

Step 3: Seal the Foil Packets

  1. Fold the foil over the ingredients, crimping the edges tightly to seal.
  2. Ensure enough space inside the packet for steam to circulate.

Step 4: Cooking Options

  1. Grill: Preheat grill to medium heat (400°F). Cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  2. Oven: Preheat to 375°F. Bake for 25–30 minutes on a baking sheet.
  3. Campfire: Place over hot coals for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

  1. Carefully open packets to release steam.
  2. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
  3. Serve with jasmine rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
  • Author: Linda Louxax
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling, Baking, or Campfire Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Keywords: teriyaki chicken foil packets, pineapple chicken recipe, grilled teriyaki chicken, healthy chicken dinners, foil packet meals, sweet and savory chicken, summer grilling recipes, easy chicken recipes, camping meals, chicken and pineapple foil dinner

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