Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of savory teriyaki chicken, sweet pineapple, and fresh bell pepper creates a mouthwatering balance of flavors. Cooking everything in a foil packet locks in moisture, resulting in tender, juicy chicken and caramelized pineapple. The convenience of using foil packets means you can easily cook this meal on the grill, in the oven, or even over a campfire. Plus, the simple ingredients make it a fast and flavorful option that’s perfect for busy nights or outdoor cooking adventures.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven or grill: If you’re using the oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). If you’re grilling, heat the grill to medium-high.
2. Prepare the foil packets: Lay out two large sheets of aluminum foil, about 12 inches long each. Place one chicken breast in the center of each sheet.
3. Add the vegetables and pineapple: Divide the pineapple chunks and red bell pepper slices evenly between the two foil sheets, placing them around the chicken.
4. Drizzle with sauce and oil: Drizzle each chicken breast with 2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce and 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. This will help keep the chicken moist and infuse it with flavor. Optionally, you can sprinkle a little salt and pepper to taste.
5. Seal the foil packets: Fold the sides of the foil over the chicken and vegetables, creating a sealed packet. Make sure the packets are well sealed to trap the moisture inside.
6. Cook the packets:
   • In the oven: Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
   • On the grill: Place the foil packets on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked.
7. Serve: Once cooked, carefully open the foil packets (be cautious of the hot steam) and serve the chicken with the vegetables and pineapple. You can serve it with rice or your favorite side dish to complete the meal.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 2 servings.

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25-30 minutes (depending on cooking method)
• Total time: 35-40 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the contents in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, or reheat on the grill or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before using them in the recipe to ensure even cooking. If you’re using frozen chicken, you may need to extend the cooking time by a few minutes.

Can I add other vegetables to the foil packets?

Absolutely! You can add any vegetables you like, such as onions, zucchini, or snap peas. Just be sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly.

Can I make these foil packets ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the foil packets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to refrigerate them and not leave them out at room temperature for too long.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

While fresh pineapple works best for this recipe, you can use canned pineapple if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to drain the pineapple chunks well to avoid excess moisture in the foil packets.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to check if your chicken is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken to make sure it’s no longer pink inside.

Can I make these foil packets on a campfire?

Yes! Foil packets are perfect for cooking over a campfire. Just place them on the hot coals or on a grill grate and cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.

Can I add more sauce for extra flavor?

Yes, feel free to add more teriyaki sauce if you prefer a saucier dish. You can drizzle extra sauce over the chicken before sealing the packets or serve it on the side.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Chicken and Pineapple Foil Packets are an easy, flavorful, and versatile meal that’s perfect for busy nights or outdoor cooking. The combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and tangy teriyaki sauce creates a deliciously balanced dish that will satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re baking in the oven, grilling, or cooking over a campfire, these foil packets are a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy a tasty and convenient meal!

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