Description
Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets
A quick, flavor-packed meal that combines sweet and savory elements in foil packets. Perfect for grilling or baking in the oven!
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup pineapple chunks
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
1 tbsp olive oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, thinly sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
2 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Aluminum foil
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lay chicken breasts in the center of the foil, drizzle with olive oil, and season.
Layer pineapple, bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini.
Pour teriyaki sauce over the mixture and seal the packets.
Bake for 25-30 minutes.
Garnish with green onions before serving.
#TastyTeriyakiPackets
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets every time.
- Prepare Your Station: Tear off four large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each about 12×18 inches. Lightly spray the center of each with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prep the Chicken: Place one chicken breast half in the center of each foil sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Build the Packets: Evenly divide the pineapple chunks, sliced bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini, piling them on and around each chicken breast. The vegetables will steam perfectly around the protein.
- Add the Sauce: Pour 1 tablespoon of teriyaki sauce over the contents of each packet. For best flavor, ensure some sauce gets on the chicken and the vegetables.
- Seal Tightly: Bring the long sides of the foil together and fold them down in a series of tight, 1/2-inch folds until the packet is snug against the food. Then, roll up the short ends to create a fully sealed, leak-proof pouch.
- Cook: Place packets on a baking sheet (to catch any potential leaks) and bake in the preheated 400°F oven for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Rest and Serve: Let packets rest for 3-5 minutes after removing from the oven. Carefully open (watch for steam), garnish with green onions, and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
These foil packets are a complete meal, but you can easily elevate your dinner plate. Serve them over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious teriyaki-pineapple juices. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice. A simple side of steamed edamame or a crisp Asian cucumber salad adds a refreshing contrast. Don’t forget to provide extra teriyaki sauce and crushed red pepper flakes at the table for those who want more sweetness or heat.
How-to Summary
In short: Season chicken, layer with pineapple and sliced veggies (bell pepper, carrot, zucchini) on foil, top with teriyaki sauce, seal into tight packets, and bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes. Garnish with green onions and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these packets ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the packets up to 24 hours in advance and store them sealed in the refrigerator. Let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking, and you may need to add 3-5 extra minutes to the cook time.
Can I use frozen chicken? It is not recommended. Frozen chicken will release too much water during cooking, steaming the ingredients instead of roasting them and diluting the sauce. Always use thawed chicken breasts.
What other proteins can I use? This method works great with salmon fillets, large shrimp, or even firm tofu cubes. Adjust cooking time accordingly (shrimp and tofu may cook in 15-20 minutes).
Can I cook these on the grill? Absolutely. Place the sealed packets over medium-high heat (about 400°F) on your grill. Cook for the same amount of time, turning once halfway through.
How do I know the chicken is done without opening the packet? The packets will puff up from the steam, and the chicken should feel firm to the touch through the foil. For certainty, you can carefully open one packet to check that the juices run clear or use a meat thermometer (165°F).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using thin foil: Always use heavy-duty foil. Standard foil can easily tear, causing leaks and a messy oven.
- Overfilling the packets: Leave enough empty foil around the edges to create a proper seal. Overstuffing makes sealing difficult and can lead to uneven cooking.
- Not sealing tightly: A loose seal allows steam and flavorful juices to escape, resulting in drier food. Take your time to fold the seams securely.
- Opening packets immediately: Letting the packets rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute and prevents you from getting a steam burn.
Conclusion
Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are the ultimate solution for a delicious, healthy, and virtually cleanup-free dinner. The magic of the foil packet locks in moisture and marries the sweet pineapple with savory teriyaki sauce, creating an irresistible glaze for the chicken and vegetables. Whether you bake them in the oven or throw them on the grill, this versatile recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Give it a try for your next easy weeknight meal or outdoor gathering.
