Introduction in Alex Guarnaschelli’s Style:
There’s just something about teriyaki chicken that makes it a go-to comfort meal. The balance of sweet and savory, the way the sauce clings to each bite, and that caramelized, sticky glaze—it’s the kind of dish that keeps you coming back for more. But when you add juicy pineapple to the mix? Oh, now we’re talking next-level flavor.
This Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken is the perfect weeknight dinner hero. The sauce is a delicious blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic, thickened to glossy perfection and kissed with the tropical sweetness of pineapple juice. It’s quick, easy, and totally addictive—whether you serve it over fluffy rice, alongside roasted veggies, or wrapped in lettuce cups for a lighter take.
The best part? It’s one of those dishes that tastes like takeout, but better. My family absolutely devours it, and I always make extra because leftovers (if there are any) taste even better the next day. One pan, simple ingredients, and a flavor explosion? Yes, please!
Recipe Resume in Todd Wilbur’s Style:
If you love teriyaki chicken, this Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken is going to blow your mind. It’s got that perfect mix of salty, sweet, and umami, plus juicy pineapple chunks that add a tropical burst of flavor.
This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights. The homemade teriyaki saucethickens into a rich, glossy glaze that coats every bite of chicken. Serve it over rice or in lettuce wraps for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal. Better than takeout and way more satisfying!
Exciting Story:
Every time I make this Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken, it’s like a dinner-time victory. My husband can’t stop raving about how it tastes like something straight out of a Hawaiian grill, and my kids? Let’s just say, they fight over who gets the last bite.
One night, I decided to double the recipe to have leftovers. The next morning, I woke up to find my husband already in the kitchen, reheating a bowl for breakfast. He looked at me and said, “Don’t judge me—this is too good to wait for lunch.” And honestly? I totally got it.
This dish is effortless, flavor-packed, and always a hit—the kind of meal that makes dinner feel like a little celebration.
Why This Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Is a Must-Try
🍍 Sweet, Sticky, & Savory Perfection 🍗
✔ Juicy chicken coated in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce
✔ Perfect balance of sweet & salty, thanks to pineapple & soy sauce
✔ One-pan wonder – Easy cleanup!
✔ Pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or veggies
✔ Ready in under 30 minutes!
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired / Hawaiian
Tips for the Best Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken
✔ Use fresh pineapple – If you can, fresh pineapple makes the dish even better.
✔ Don’t overcook the chicken – Cook just until done to keep it juicy and tender.
✔ Make extra sauce – You’ll want to drizzle it over everything!
✔ Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu – For an easy protein variation.
✔ Want it spicy? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha.
Substitutions and Variations
🔹 No pineapple juice? Swap with orange juice for a citrusy twist.
🔹 Make it low-carb – Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
🔹 Gluten-free version – Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
🔹 Want it crispier? Lightly coat the chicken in cornstarch before frying for a crispier texture.
🔹 Add more veggies – Bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots all work beautifully.
Make a Healthier Version
✅ Reduce sugar – Cut back on brown sugar and honey, or use coconut sugar.
✅ Use skinless chicken breast – Leaner and lower in fat.
✅ Thicken with arrowroot powder – A cornstarch alternative for a lighter sauce.
✅ Steam instead of fry – Steam the chicken and veggies for a healthier approach.
Closing in Todd Wilbur’s Style:
And there you have it! Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken, the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and sticky deliciousness. It’s a weeknight winner that’s ready in under 30 minutes and way better than takeout.
Craving more takeout-inspired favorites? Try our Sticky Gochujang Chicken Wings or Cheesy Beef Burrito next!
Relevant Categories:
- Dinner
- Asian-Inspired Recipes
- One-Pan Meals
- Quick & Easy Recipes
- Takeout Favorites
Tags:
- Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
- Easy Chicken Dinner
- Sweet & Savory Chicken
- Better Than Takeout
- Hawaiian-Inspired Meal
🥢 Time to grab your chopsticks and dig in! 🍍🍗
Print
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken
Description
If you love teriyaki chicken, this Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken is going to blow your mind. It’s got that perfect mix of salty, sweet, and umami, plus juicy pineapple chunks that add a tropical burst of flavor.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons oil (sesame or vegetable)
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Pineapple Teriyaki Sauce:
- ½ cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- ¼ cup pineapple juice (from canned pineapple or fresh)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)
Add-Ins:
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
- In the same pan, add soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to make a slurry. Slowly stir it into the sauce and cook for 1-2 minutesuntil thickened.
Step 3: Bring It All Together
- Add the cooked chicken and pineapple chunks back into the pan. Stir well to coat everything in the sticky, glossy sauce.
- Let it simmer for 2 minutes so the flavors meld.
Step 4: Serve & Garnish
- Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or in lettuce cups.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
