Description
Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are a delightful fusion of savory and sweet flavors. This easy-to-make recipe combines juicy chicken breasts, fresh pineapple chunks, and vibrant vegetables, all coated in a rich teriyaki glaze. Perfect for grilling, baking, or even camping, these foil packets are a versatile, mess-free meal option. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a summer barbecue, this recipe delivers a satisfying and healthy dish that everyone will love. Customize with your favorite veggies and enjoy the perfect balance of taste and convenience!
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- Pineapple Chunks: 1 cup (fresh or canned, drained if canned)
- Teriyaki Sauce: 1 cup (store-bought or homemade)
- Bell Peppers: 2, sliced (use a mix of red, yellow, and green for color)
- Red Onion: 1 medium, sliced
- Zucchini: 1 medium, sliced into rounds
- Carrots: 1 cup, thinly sliced or julienned
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Sesame Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Honey: 1 tablespoon
- Ginger: 1 teaspoon, freshly grated
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Green Onions: 2 stalks, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat your grill to medium-high.
- Tear out 4 large pieces of aluminum foil (about 12×18 inches each) and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
- Pour half the teriyaki mixture over the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor. Reserve the remaining sauce for later.
Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packets
- Lay each piece of foil on a flat surface.
- Evenly distribute bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, carrots, and pineapple chunks across the foil sheets.
- Place one marinated chicken breast on top of each vegetable pile.
Step 4: Add Sauce
- Drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of the reserved teriyaki sauce over the chicken and vegetables in each packet.
Step 5: Seal the Packets
- Fold the sides of the foil over the chicken and vegetables, sealing tightly to create a leak-proof packet.
Step 6: Cook
- Oven Method: Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
- Grill Method: Place the foil packets directly on the grill grates and cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Carefully open the foil packets (watch out for hot steam).
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve directly in the foil for an easy presentation or transfer to a plate.
Notes
- Marination Time:
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you’re short on time, even a quick 10-minute marination will infuse some flavor. - Vegetable Size:
Slice the vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking. Thicker cuts may need a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly. - Foil Tips:
Use heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent tearing, especially if cooking on a grill. Double-layer the foil if needed for added durability. - Sauce Consistency:
If you prefer a thicker teriyaki sauce, heat the reserved sauce with a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water) over medium heat until it thickens. - Avoid Overcrowding:
Ensure each packet is sealed tightly but not overfilled to allow steam to circulate and cook the ingredients evenly. - Internal Temperature Check:
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. - Alternative Cooking Methods:
If you prefer not to use foil, layer the ingredients in a baking dish, cover with a lid or foil, and bake as directed. - Leftovers:
Store leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Foil Packet Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 foil packet
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg