Description
These Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are a flavorful, colorful, and convenient meal made with tender chicken, fresh pineapple, and crisp vegetables baked together in individual foil wraps.
Introduction
Foil packet meals are an easy and fuss-free way to enjoy a balanced and delicious dinner. This recipe brings together sweet pineapple, savory teriyaki sauce, and juicy chicken breast, creating a combination that tastes fresh, vibrant, and satisfying. Everything cooks together in one packet, making cleanup incredibly simple.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it requires minimal preparation and no special tools. Each packet steams naturally inside the foil, keeping the chicken tender and the vegetables crisp. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even grilling outdoors.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, thinly sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Aluminum foil for wrapping
Instructions (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the foil packets
Cut two large sheets of aluminum foil and place them on your work surface.
Step 2: Season the chicken
Place one chicken breast in the center of each foil sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Add the vegetables and pineapple
Arrange the sliced bell pepper, carrot, zucchini, and pineapple chunks evenly around and over each chicken breast.
Step 4: Add the teriyaki sauce
Pour the teriyaki sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
Step 5: Seal the packets
Fold the foil over the ingredients and seal all edges tightly to create a closed packet.
Step 6: Bake the packets
Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 7: Finish and serve
Carefully open each packet, watching for steam. Sprinkle the chopped green onions on top and serve warm.
Variations
You can swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs for extra tenderness.
Add mushrooms, snap peas, or broccoli for more vegetables.
Replace teriyaki sauce with sweet chili or soy-ginger sauce for different flavors.
Tips for the Best Results
Cut vegetables into even slices to ensure everything cooks at the same rate.
Do not overfill the packets; leaving space allows steam to circulate.
If grilling, place the packets over medium heat for about 25 minutes.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Do not store in foil; transfer to a container after cooling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with steamed rice, noodles, or quinoa to soak up the sauce.
A simple green salad makes a fresh and light side.
Garnish with sesame seeds or extra green onions for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I prepare these packets ahead of time?
Yes, assemble them up to 12 hours ahead and keep them refrigerated before baking.
Can I use canned pineapple?
Fresh works best, but canned pineapple chunks (drained well) also work.
Can I grill the packets instead of baking?
Yes, grill over medium heat for about 25 minutes.
Conclusion
These Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are a simple, colorful, and delicious way to enjoy a complete meal with minimal cleanup. With sweet pineapple, tender chicken, and flavorful vegetables, each packet delivers a perfectly balanced and satisfying dish. Enjoy this easy recipe anytime you need a quick and tasty dinner.