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Sweet Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Breast

Joy Brooks
This juicy pineapple teriyaki chicken breast combines sweet-savory teriyaki with fresh pineapple's natural tenderizing enzymes for perfectly moist chicken every time. A two-stage cooking process ensures caramelized exterior with tender interior.
Servings: 2 people
Course: Stuffed & Marinated
Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Calories: 325 kcal
Prep Time : 15 minutes
Cook Time : 20 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 6-8 oz each
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced plus 1/4 cup juice
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce preferably low-sodium
  • 2 tablespoons mirin
  • 2 tablespoons sake or dry sherry
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic microplaned
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger microplaned
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced on bias
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If breasts are uneven in thickness, place between plastic wrap and gently pound to an even 3/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine pineapple juice, diced pineapple, soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Whisk thoroughly until sugar is dissolved.
  3. Place chicken in a resealable plastic bag or glass container. Pour 3/4 of the marinade over chicken, reserving 1/4 cup for the glaze. Ensure chicken is fully coated, then seal and refrigerate for 2-4 hours (no longer than 4 hours as pineapple enzymes can make the chicken mushy).
  4. Remove chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. Preheat oven to 375°F. Remove chicken from marinade and pat lightly with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  5. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add 1 tablespoon of neutral oil with a high smoke point. Place chicken in skillet and sear undisturbed for 3 minutes until deep golden brown.
  6. Flip chicken, transfer skillet to preheated oven, and cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F, approximately 7-9 minutes depending on thickness. Use a digital thermometer for accuracy.
  7. Remove chicken from skillet and transfer to a plate. Tent loosely with foil and rest for 7-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  8. While chicken rests, pour reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Add to simmering marinade and whisk constantly until mixture thickens to a glossy glaze, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in honey for added shine and sweetness.
  9. Slice chicken against the grain, drizzle with glaze, and garnish with sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and additional pineapple chunks if desired.

Note

  • Use fresh pineapple only for enzymatic tenderizing - canned pineapple has denatured enzymes
  • Don't marinate longer than 4 hours to prevent mushy texture
  • Always pat chicken dry before searing for proper browning
  • Let chicken come to room temperature before cooking for even results
  • Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness