Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken

Short description

Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken is a delicious fusion of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich teriyaki glaze with chunks of juicy pineapple. This dish brings a tropical twist to classic teriyaki, making it perfect for a satisfying family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines sweet pineapple with savory, umami-rich teriyaki sauce

• Quick and easy to prepare for weeknight dinners

• Customizable with different cooking methods like baking, grilling, or stir-frying

• Great for meal prep and leftovers

• Pairs well with rice, noodles, or vegetables

• Kid-friendly and family-approved

• Naturally dairy-free and easy to make gluten-free

• Uses pantry-friendly ingredients

• Balanced flavor profile: sweet, salty, and tangy

• Can be cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)

• Pineapple juice

• Soy sauce

• Brown sugar

• Honey

• Garlic, minced

• Fresh ginger, grated

• Cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)

• Sesame oil

• Optional: lime juice, green onions, sesame seeds, red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Make the teriyaki sauce: In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer.

2. Thicken the sauce: Mix cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry. Stir it into the sauce and cook until thickened. Set aside.

3. Marinate the chicken: Place chicken in a bowl or zip-top bag and pour half of the teriyaki sauce over it. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2–4 hours.

4. Cook the chicken:

   • Baking method: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place marinated chicken and pineapple chunks in a baking dish. Pour remaining sauce over the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Broil for 2–3 minutes to caramelize.

   • Grilling method: Grill chicken over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes per side, basting with sauce. Grill pineapple rings alongside.

   • Stir-fry method: Sauté chicken in a skillet with a little oil. Once cooked through, add pineapple and teriyaki sauce, cooking until heated and caramelized.

5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice or vegetables.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4–6

• Prep time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)

• Cook time: 20–25 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour (including marinating)

Variations

• Use drumsticks or wings instead of boneless chicken

• Substitute pineapple juice with orange juice for a citrusy twist

• Add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to make it a stir-fry

• Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version

• Use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option

• Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick

Storage/reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken and sauce for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of pineapple juice or water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless thighs are juicier and more flavorful, but breasts also work well if you prefer leaner meat.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple chunks or rings work perfectly. Use the juice from the can for the sauce.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating is optional but recommended. It helps the chicken absorb the flavor more deeply.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prep the sauce a day ahead. Cook when ready to serve.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, or snap peas make great additions.

What can I serve with Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken?

Steamed white or brown rice, fried rice, quinoa, or noodles pair well. Add a side of steamed veggies for balance.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.

What can I do if my sauce is too thin?

Simmer it a bit longer or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry until it thickens to your liking.

Conclusion

Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful blend of tropical and savory flavors, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. It’s easy to make, adaptable to your preferences, and delivers a comforting, flavorful meal every time. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a satisfying homemade dish that feels like a takeout favorite made fresh at home.