Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes with every bite. Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a rich, tangy teriyaki sauce, then grilled or sautéed to perfection. The addition of juicy pineapple chunks gives the dish a burst of tropical sweetness, making each bite feel like a delicious escape to an island paradise.
The first time I made this dish, I was craving something with bold flavors and a bit of brightness, and it exceeded my expectations! The smoky, caramelized chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet and slightly tart pineapple, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. This recipe is so versatile—you can serve it with a side of steamed rice, over a bed of greens for a lighter meal, or even on skewers for a fun appetizer. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a weeknight dinner, Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken is sure to impress!
Perfect for:
- Summer barbecues
- Weeknight dinners
- Family gatherings
- Tropical-themed parties
- Chicken lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken will become your go-to meal:
- Tropical Flavor: The sweet pineapple and savory teriyaki create an irresistible fusion of flavors.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Juicy, Tender Chicken: The chicken comes out perfectly moist and flavorful, thanks to the marinating process.
- Perfectly Balanced Sauce: The teriyaki sauce is sweet, salty, and savory, bringing out the best in the chicken.
- Grilled to Perfection: The grilling adds a smoky depth to the chicken, enhancing the flavor.
- Healthy and Light: With fresh ingredients and lean protein, this dish is light yet satisfying.
- Make-Ahead Option: Marinate the chicken the night before to make dinner even easier.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness of the sauce or add extra spices for more heat.
- Ideal for Entertaining: Serve it at your next barbecue or dinner party for a crowd-pleasing dish.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour (including marinating time)
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 32g, Carbs: 32g, Fat: 12g
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Teriyaki Marinade:
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thicker sauce)
For the Pineapple:
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings or chunks
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Ingredient Highlights
- Fresh Pineapple: Adds a burst of sweetness and acidity that perfectly complements the chicken and sauce.
- Sesame Oil: Imparts a nutty depth to the teriyaki marinade.
- Honey: Provides natural sweetness to balance the savory soy sauce.
- Fresh Ginger and Garlic: These aromatics bring additional depth of flavor to the marinade.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Pour the marinade over the chicken and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).
Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:
- Cook Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the remaining marinade (from the chicken) with the cornstarch mixture (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Brush with teriyaki sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for extra flavor.
Grill the Pineapple:
- Grill Pineapple: While the chicken is grilling, place pineapple rings or chunks on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the pineapple caramelizes slightly.
Serve:
- Plate and Serve: Serve the grilled chicken alongside the grilled pineapple, drizzling with the thickened teriyaki sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken:
- With Steamed Rice: Serve with white or brown rice to soak up the extra teriyaki sauce.
- As a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve on top of a fresh green salad with a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce.
- In a Wrap: Wrap the chicken and pineapple in a tortilla with fresh veggies for a tropical wrap.
- With Grilled Veggies: Serve with a side of grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
- In a Rice Bowl: Layer the chicken and pineapple over a bed of rice with some sautéed veggies for a complete meal.
- With Coconut Rice: Pair with coconut-infused rice for a more exotic flavor.
- On Skewers: Thread the chicken and pineapple onto skewers for a fun presentation.
- With Coleslaw: A tangy slaw pairs wonderfully with the sweet teriyaki and grilled chicken.
- In a Bento Box: Pack a bento box with sliced chicken, pineapple, rice, and veggies for a perfect lunch.
- With a Side of Dipping Sauce: Serve with extra teriyaki sauce for dipping.
Additional Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Grilling the chicken just until it’s done ensures it stays juicy.
- Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: If you have the time, marinate the chicken overnight for the most flavorful results.
- Thicken Sauce to Your Liking: Add cornstarch for a thicker sauce that clings to the chicken.
- Grill Pineapple for Extra Flavor: Don’t skip grilling the pineapple—it enhances its natural sweetness.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the chicken and pineapple right off the grill.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Pineapple Chicken Stir-Fry: Stir-fry the marinated chicken with vegetables and pineapple for a quick, one-pan meal.
- Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Shrimp: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Teriyaki Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier option.
- Mango Teriyaki Chicken: Replace pineapple with mango for a sweet variation.
- Vegan Option: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for a plant-based version.
Special Equipment
- Grill or Grill Pan: For grilling the chicken and pineapple.
- Tongs: For flipping the chicken and pineapple on the grill.
- Basting Brush: To brush the teriyaki sauce onto the chicken.
- Meat Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the chicken.
- Whisk: For mixing the marinade and sauce.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen pineapple?
Fresh pineapple is preferred for grilling, but frozen pineapple can be used if fresh isn’t available. - How long does the chicken stay good in the fridge?
The grilled chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?
Yes, bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until fully cooked. - Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
Absolutely! Just be sure to check the ingredients for any additives. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients for larger servings, but make sure your grill can accommodate the extra chicken. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Marinate the chicken in advance, but for the best taste, grill the chicken and pineapple just before serving. - Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking. - What should I do if the teriyaki sauce is too salty?
Add a little more honey or pineapple juice to balance the flavor. - Can I skip the pineapple grilling?
Yes, but grilling the pineapple adds a caramelized flavor that enhances the dish. - Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe and are often juicier than breasts.
Conclusion
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken is a sweet and savory dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with the tropical sweetness of pineapple and the rich, umami flavor of teriyaki sauce. This dish is full of flavor, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal to impress your guests.
To make it, start by marinating the chicken in a blend of teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for extra depth of flavor. Once marinated, cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, and then top it with fresh pineapple chunks and a little extra teriyaki sauce. The pineapple adds a juicy, sweet contrast to the salty richness of the teriyaki sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. You can serve this dish over steamed rice, with a side of stir-fried vegetables, or alongside a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. For extra flavor, garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce.
This dish is not only delicious but also bright and vibrant, making it perfect for a tropical-inspired dinner!
I can’t wait to see how your Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your sweet and savory creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!