These Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are a tropical-inspired, no-mess meal perfect for the oven, grill, or even a campfire. Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce, paired with colorful bell peppers, red onion, broccoli, and fresh pineapple chunks. Cooking everything in foil locks in moisture and flavor, while making cleanup a breeze. Ideal for weeknight dinners, BBQs, or meal prep.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 ½ cups fresh pineapple chunks (or canned, drained)

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped

• ½ red onion, sliced

• 2 cups broccoli florets

• ¼ cup teriyaki sauce

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp ginger powder

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp chopped green onions, for garnish

• 1 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare Marinade & Chicken

   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or grill to medium heat.

   • In a bowl, whisk teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ginger powder.

   • Add chicken pieces and marinate for 10 minutes.

2. Assemble Packets

   • Tear four large (12×12-inch) sheets of foil.

   • Divide chicken, pineapple, peppers, onion, and broccoli evenly among foil sheets.

   • Drizzle with olive oil and pour remaining sauce over each.

   • Season with salt and pepper.

3. Seal & Cook

   • Fold foil tightly to seal packets.

   • Oven: Place on baking sheet and bake 20–25 minutes.

   • Grill: Cook 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. Serve

   • Carefully open packets (beware steam). Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

   • Serve with rice or quinoa.

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal

• Protein: 30 g

• Carbohydrates: 35 g

• Fat: 7 g

• Fiber: 4 g

The Flavor Profile

The magic of this recipe lies in the perfect balance of sweet, savory, tangy, and umami. Teriyaki sauce serves as the foundation, offering a deep, slightly salty flavor, while soy sauce enhances the savory depth. Honey provides a gentle sweetness that caramelizes beautifully during cooking. Fresh pineapple chunks burst with tropical juiciness, cutting through the richness of the chicken and sauce. The vegetables—bell peppers, broccoli, and red onion—bring earthy notes, vibrant color, and a crisp-tender bite, creating a satisfying variety of textures in each forkful.

Why Foil Packets are a Smart Cooking Method

Cooking in foil packets is one of the most efficient and rewarding methods in the kitchen. By sealing all the ingredients together, the heat and steam remain trapped, ensuring the chicken stays moist and the flavors intensify as they mingle. This method also locks in nutrients that might otherwise be lost in traditional cooking processes. Plus, it’s an incredibly clean way to cook—once the meal is enjoyed, cleanup is as simple as tossing away the used foil.

Versatility in Cooking Options

One of the greatest strengths of this recipe is its adaptability to different cooking environments. For weeknight dinners, the oven provides consistent heat and hands-off cooking. On warm summer evenings, the grill infuses the ingredients with a subtle smokiness that pairs beautifully with the teriyaki glaze. And for outdoor enthusiasts, these foil packets are a campfire favorite, requiring minimal tools while delivering maximum flavor. The flexibility makes this recipe a year-round staple.

Nutritional Benefits

Beyond its delicious taste, Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are a balanced and wholesome option. Chicken is a lean source of protein that supports muscle health, while broccoli and bell peppers deliver a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Pineapple offers a natural dose of vitamin C and bromelain, which may aid digestion. The dish is relatively low in fat and can be paired with nutrient-rich sides like brown rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Make-Ahead Meals

These foil packets can be assembled hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to cook, making them perfect for busy schedules. They can even be frozen before cooking—ideal for meal prep enthusiasts who want ready-to-bake options on hand. For those who pack lunches, cooked packets can be transferred to airtight containers and reheated for a flavorful midday meal. The portion control is effortless, as each packet is already divided into individual servings.

Customizing the Recipe

While the core recipe is already delicious, it’s highly customizable for different tastes and dietary needs. For a spicier kick, a dash of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha can be added to the marinade. To make the dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Vegetarians can swap the chicken for firm tofu or chickpeas, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. The vegetables can also be varied depending on what’s in season—zucchini, snap peas, or mushrooms all work beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

These foil packets are delicious straight from the oven or grill, but pairing them with the right sides elevates the meal even further. Steamed jasmine rice or coconut-infused rice soaks up the flavorful juices beautifully. A crisp cucumber salad or Asian slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory-sweet flavors. For a heartier spread, serve alongside garlic noodles or pan-fried dumplings. A squeeze of fresh lime over the top just before serving brightens the dish and ties all the flavors together.

Entertaining Made Easy

When hosting, this recipe offers a stress-free way to feed a crowd. The packets can be assembled in advance and labeled with each guest’s preferred ingredients. During the event, they can be cooked in batches and served hot with minimal effort. Because the packets seal in the aromas until opened, there’s a little moment of excitement when each guest unwraps their meal, releasing a wave of savory-sweet fragrance.

Seasonal Appeal

In summer, the pineapple and peppers resonate with the season’s bright, sunny vibe, and the grill becomes the go-to cooking method. In cooler months, the oven method provides comforting warmth while still delivering a burst of tropical flavor that’s a welcome contrast to heavier winter dishes. This adaptability ensures the recipe never feels out of place, no matter the season.

The Balance of Convenience and Flavor

It’s rare for a recipe to be both incredibly simple and restaurant-quality in taste, but Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets manage to achieve just that. There’s no need for elaborate techniques or multiple cooking vessels. The marinade takes minutes to prepare, the assembly is straightforward, and the cooking process is hands-off, leaving you free to prepare sides, set the table, or simply relax.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are a shining example of how a few fresh ingredients, a smart cooking method, and a well-balanced sauce can create a dish that feels both special and effortless. The sweet and savory pairing of chicken and pineapple, enhanced by vibrant vegetables and a glossy teriyaki glaze, delivers a flavor-packed experience that appeals to all ages. The ease of preparation, minimal cleanup, and adaptability for different cooking methods make this recipe a true kitchen MVP. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner, a summer barbecue, or a cozy camping trip, this tropical-inspired foil packet meal promises satisfaction in every bite. It’s proof that convenience and gourmet flavor can happily coexist, and it’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your cooking rotation.