Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

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Sweet, savory, and kissed with tropical flavor, these Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are the ultimate no-fuss dinner with a big flavor payoff. Juicy chicken thighs soak up a sticky teriyaki glaze, nestled beside golden pineapple chunks, vibrant bell peppers, and red onions. Everything cooks in a single foil packet, locking in moisture and infusing each bite with caramelized goodness.

Whether you’re grilling on the patio or baking in your oven, this meal delivers a satisfying combo of sweet heat and umami depth. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual cookouts, or even meal prep—minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating these foil packets is delightfully simple, but using the right tools will make a huge difference in ease and results.

• Heavy-Duty Aluminum Foil: This is your key to even cooking and moisture retention. It prevents leaks and can handle both grill and oven heat without tearing.
• Mixing Bowls: A medium-sized bowl is great for tossing the chicken in the teriyaki sauce before assembling your packets.
• Tongs or Gloves: For easy and mess-free handling of marinated chicken and hot foil.
• Baking Sheet (if using the oven): Helps move foil packets in and out of the oven smoothly and catches any drips.
• Grill or Oven: Either will work! Grill for a smoky char or bake for a more hands-off approach.

These tools help lock in flavor and simplify your cleanup. Once you’ve got everything prepped, it all comes together beautifully in under 30 minutes.

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Ingredients for the Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

Each ingredient plays an important role in building layers of sweet, savory, and tangy flavor in this tropical-inspired meal.

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: They stay juicy during cooking and absorb the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
• Pineapple Chunks: Fresh or canned, they provide natural sweetness and a juicy contrast to the savory chicken.
• Red Bell Peppers: Adds vibrant color and a subtle sweetness that balances the umami sauce.
• Red Onion: Offers a sharp bite that mellows and sweetens when roasted inside the packet.
• Teriyaki Sauce: The heart of the flavor. Use a thick, high-quality version for a sticky glaze.
• Minced Garlic: Enhances the savory depth of the sauce.
• Green Onions: For garnish, they add freshness and a crisp bite.
• Sesame Seeds: Optional, but they bring a toasty, nutty crunch.
• Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: To lightly coat the foil and prevent sticking.

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How To Make the Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Slice the red bell pepper and red onion into strips. If using canned pineapple, drain it well.

Step 2: Toss with Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, teriyaki sauce, and minced garlic. Let it marinate for 10–20 minutes while prepping the other items.

Step 3: Assemble the Packets

Lay out squares of heavy-duty foil. Lightly spray with oil. Divide the chicken mixture evenly between packets, adding bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks to each.

Step 4: Seal and Cook

Fold the foil into packets, sealing tightly to prevent leaks. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or grill over medium heat for about 15–20 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Open carefully (watch out for steam!), then sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot, straight from the foil or over rice.

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Serving and Storing Your Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

These flavorful packets are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Spoon the contents over fluffy jasmine rice, scoop into warm tortillas for a tropical taco night, or keep it low-carb with cauliflower rice. They’re also fantastic as a standalone dish straight from the foil for easy cleanup.

For storing, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The pineapple and teriyaki sauce reheat beautifully without losing flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the foil packets from leaking?

Use heavy-duty foil and double-wrap if needed. Always seal the edges tightly by folding over twice and crimping securely.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the foil packets a few hours in advance and refrigerate. Cook just before serving.

What kind of teriyaki sauce works best?

Choose a thick, glaze-style teriyaki sauce for maximum flavor and that signature sticky coating. Homemade works too!

Can I substitute chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but keep an eye on the cooking time. Chicken breasts can dry out more quickly, so reduce cook time slightly.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Assemble the raw packets, then freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking as directed.

Can I add other veggies?

Definitely! Zucchini, snap peas, or mushrooms make excellent additions. Just slice them thin for even cooking.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets, you’ll probably enjoy these other chicken-forward favorites:

• Longhorn Parmesan Chicken — golden-crusted with a creamy cheese finish.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole — a comfort classic, made simple.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot — set it and forget it.
• One Pan Sticky Teriyaki BBQ Chicken Rice — a flavor-packed skillet option.
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet — buttery, garlicky goodness in every bite.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you grill them or bake them? Try any fun veggie swaps?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Ask your questions or share your tweaks—we’re all here to cook smarter together.

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