Introduction & Inspiration
If you’re looking for a healthier take on takeout, this Healthy Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken is for you.
It’s sweet, savory, packed with flavor, and comes together easily for busy weeknights.
Plus, it’s made with real ingredients and no refined sugars if you use pure maple syrup or honey.
Nostalgic Appeal
This dish reminds me of classic Chinese takeout nights growing up, but now I can make a lighter version at home.
The tropical twist of pineapple brings a fun and fresh spin to the traditional teriyaki flavors.
Every bite is a burst of comfort, memories, and pure joy!
Homemade Focus
Making your own teriyaki sauce takes just a few minutes and is so much healthier than bottled sauces.
You control the sweetness, the sodium, and can skip any unnecessary additives.
Plus, marinating the chicken yourself gives a deep, authentic flavor.
Flavor Goal
The goal was simple: juicy tender chicken wrapped in a glossy, sticky teriyaki glaze with juicy pineapple bursts.
A perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory with just a hint of brightness from fresh ginger and garlic.
It’s satisfying without feeling heavy!
Ingredient Insights
Chicken thighs add juiciness while breasts keep it lean if you prefer.
Fresh pineapple offers vibrant sweetness, but canned pineapple works perfectly too.
The homemade teriyaki sauce uses simple pantry staples like low-sodium soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar.
Essential Equipment
You’ll need a sharp knife for chopping, a mixing bowl for marinating, and a large nonstick skillet or wok for cooking.
A small saucepan will also come in handy for simmering and thickening the sauce.
List of Ingredients with Measurements
For the Chicken and Sauce:
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned)
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
For Garnish and Serving:
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
3 green onions, sliced
Cooked brown rice or quinoa
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat them evenly.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for extra flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a little oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken, reserving the marinade for later.
Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Step 3: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
While the chicken cooks, pour the reserved marinade and pineapple chunks into a small saucepan.
Bring it to a simmer over medium heat to start thickening the flavors.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Stir the cornstarch and water mixture into the simmering sauce.
Keep stirring until the sauce thickens into a glossy coating, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove the sauce from heat once it reaches the perfect texture.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour the thickened teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet.
Mix well to coat every piece of chicken with the sweet, sticky sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve the pineapple teriyaki chicken over brown rice or quinoa for a wholesome base.
Top each bowl with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and a few extra pineapple chunks if desired.
Add a squeeze of fresh lime for a pop of extra freshness.
Troubleshooting
If your sauce isn’t thickening, make sure your cornstarch and water were mixed properly before adding.
Chicken drying out? Cook it just until done, especially if using chicken breast.
Pineapple burning? Lower the heat slightly and stir frequently once you add the sauce.
Tips and Variations
Swap the chicken for shrimp for a quick seafood twist.
Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a soy-free option.
Add steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra veggies and color.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with jasmine rice, coconut rice, or quinoa for a hearty base.
A crisp cucumber salad with sesame dressing would be a refreshing side.
Top with extra chili flakes if you like a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information
This meal is packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
Choosing brown rice or quinoa boosts the fiber even more.
It’s naturally dairy-free and can be easily made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
Healthy Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken
Description
Enjoy this easy and flavorful Healthy Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken! Juicy chicken with sweet pineapple chunks in a sticky homemade teriyaki sauce, ready in just 40 minutes. Perfect for a light, wholesome dinner!
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Sauce:
1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned)
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
For Garnish and Serving:
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
3 green onions, sliced
Cooked brown rice or quinoa
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat them evenly.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for extra flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a little oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken, reserving the marinade for later.
Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Step 3: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
While the chicken cooks, pour the reserved marinade and pineapple chunks into a small saucepan.
Bring it to a simmer over medium heat to start thickening the flavors.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Stir the cornstarch and water mixture into the simmering sauce.
Keep stirring until the sauce thickens into a glossy coating, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove the sauce from heat once it reaches the perfect texture.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour the thickened teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet.
Mix well to coat every piece of chicken with the sweet, sticky sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve the pineapple teriyaki chicken over brown rice or quinoa for a wholesome base.
Top each bowl with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and a few extra pineapple chunks if desired.
Add a squeeze of fresh lime for a pop of extra freshness.
Recipe Summary and Q&A
Healthy Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken is sweet, savory, sticky, and absolutely crave-worthy.
It’s an easy, one-pan meal that tastes just like takeout but with healthier ingredients.
Can I freeze it? Absolutely! Freeze cooled chicken and sauce in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Can I make it spicier? Add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce!
Your healthier takeout night just got a major upgrade with this delicious recipe!