Name: Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained); 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water (for slurry); Sliced green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken is a tropical-inspired dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, accented by juicy pineapple. This dish brings the perfect balance of bold flavors, with the richness of the teriyaki sauce complementing the bright, tangy sweetness of fresh pineapple. Whether you’re grilling it or cooking it on the stovetop, this recipe is a flavorful, quick, and easy meal ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken is a delicious combination of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors that come together perfectly in one dish. The pineapple adds a refreshing burst of sweetness, while the teriyaki sauce brings a rich, umami flavor. The marinade helps keep the chicken moist and tender, while also infusing it with all the flavors of the sauce. This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with rice, vegetables, or even a simple salad. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of teriyaki with a tropical twist!

Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
Salt and pepper (for seasoning)
1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
1/2 cup fresh pineapple (diced)
1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional, for added flavor)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (for extra depth of flavor)
1/4 cup green onions (chopped, for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

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

Directions

Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, and grated ginger (if using). Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserving the marinade for later) and cook the chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Pineapple Sauce: In the same skillet, add the reserved marinade and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the diced pineapple and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the pineapple is heated through and the sauce slightly thickens.
Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the pineapple teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately with steamed rice, quinoa, or your favorite side dish.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 2 servings and takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a tropical-inspired dinner.

Variations

Grilled Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken: Instead of cooking the chicken in a skillet, grill the marinated chicken breasts over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side. Brush with the reserved marinade while grilling and serve with grilled pineapple slices for an even more tropical flavor.
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Thighs: Swap out chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option.
Add Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers, onions, or snap peas to the skillet when cooking the chicken for a one-pan meal with extra veggies.
Spicy Teriyaki Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small chopped chili to the marinade for some added heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it, though the texture may be slightly less crisp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure they are fully thawed before marinating and cooking them. Frozen chicken can result in uneven cooking if not thawed properly.

Can I make Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. However, it’s best to cook the chicken fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

Can I substitute canned pineapple for fresh pineapple?

Yes, you can use canned pineapple (drained) in place of fresh pineapple. However, fresh pineapple will give the dish a brighter, fresher flavor.

How can I thicken the teriyaki sauce?

If you’d like a thicker sauce, you can add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of water to the simmering sauce and stir until thickened.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce. Ensure the teriyaki sauce is gluten-free as well.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They’re slightly richer and more tender, which makes them a great choice for grilling or pan-searing.

How do I prevent the chicken from being dry?

To prevent dry chicken, make sure to marinate it long enough, but not too long (30 minutes to 2 hours). Avoid overcooking the chicken by using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.

Can I freeze Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a small amount of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the marinade or sauce for an added kick.

Can I serve this with something other than rice?

Yes, this dish can be served with quinoa, couscous, or even a simple green salad for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant and delicious dish that combines the savory depth of teriyaki sauce with the sweet, tangy flavor of pineapple. It’s an easy, flavorful meal that brings a taste of the tropics right to your table. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting guests, this dish is sure to impress with its combination of bold flavors and simple ingredients. Try it today for a quick and satisfying dinner everyone will love!

Jane