Can I make teriyaki chicken and pineapple foil packets ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the packets up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until you're ready to cook them. This makes them perfect for meal prep or entertaining. For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked packets for up to 3 months.

What if I don't have fresh pineapple?

Canned pineapple chunks work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to drain them well before adding to your packets. If using canned, choose pineapple packed in juice rather than syrup for a healthier option with 40% less sugar.

Can I cook these packets in an air fryer?

While traditional foil packets aren't recommended for air fryers, you can adapt this recipe by using parchment paper packets instead. Reduce the cooking time to 12-15 minutes at 360°F and check for doneness.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest method is using an instant-read thermometer, which should register 165°F when inserted into the thickest piece of chicken. Alternatively, cut into a piece – fully cooked chicken should be white throughout with no pink areas.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with extra-firm tofu, tempeh, or portobello mushrooms. Reduce the cooking time by about 5 minutes since these alternatives require less cooking time than chicken.

Is there a way to make this recipe less sweet?

Yes, you can reduce the honey or omit it entirely. You can also use a low-sugar teriyaki sauce or make your own using reduced-sodium soy sauce, fresh ginger, garlic, and a minimal amount of sweetener.

Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets: 7 Incredible Flavor-Packed Steps

Name: Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks; 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges; 2 cups broccoli florets; ⅓ cup teriyaki sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 3 green onions, thinly sliced; 4 sheets heavy-duty aluminum foil (12 x 18 inches each)

Description

Juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and vibrant vegetables cooked in a savory teriyaki glaze—all wrapped in foil for a fuss-free dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
2 cups broccoli florets
⅓ cup teriyaki sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
3 green onions, thinly sliced
4 sheets heavy-duty aluminum foil (12 x 18 inches each)

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat grill to 400°F or oven to 425°F. Spray each foil sheet with cooking spray.
Whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.
Toss chicken with half of sauce mixture. Mix pineapple, vegetables with remaining sauce.
Place chicken in center of each foil sheet, top with vegetable mixture.
Fold and seal foil packets tightly, leaving space for steam.
Grill or bake for 20-25 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F.
Carefully open packets and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Notes

Ensure even cutting and sealing of packets to avoid undercooked or soggy ingredients. Avoid overcrowding for best steam circulation.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grill or Oven
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 packet
Calories: 375
Sugar: 22g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 90mg