Are you on the hunt for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner? Look no further than this Sheet Pan Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken! With just 10 minutes of prep and a total cooking time of only 30 minutes, this recipe combines tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and crisp-tender veggies into one mouthwatering meal.
Naturally sweetened and bursting with flavor, this fast and easy dish not only simplifies your cooking routine but also ensures a healthy dining experience. Say goodbye to endless cleanup and hello to a delectable dinner that will have your family asking for seconds!
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken
Chicken is a wholesome and versatile protein source.
- High in Protein: Chicken breast, in particular, is low in fat and high in protein, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain muscle mass or support weight loss.
- Rich in Vitamins: It is a great source of B vitamins, like niacin and B6, which play a crucial role in energy metabolism.
- Minerals: Chicken is also rich in important minerals such as phosphorus and selenium, which contribute to bone health and immune function.
Incorporating chicken into meals is not only beneficial for taste but also for overall health.
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The Appeal of Pineapple in Cuisine
Pineapple is not just a tropical delight; it also offers numerous culinary advantages.
- Natural Sweetness: The natural sugars in pineapple give it an irresistible sweetness, which can enhance the flavor of various dishes.
- Digestive Aid: Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids in digestion and can help break down proteins, making it easier for the body to absorb nutrients.
- Nutrient-Rich: Pineapples are high in vitamins C and A, as well as antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to meals.
The fusion of chicken and pineapple in the teriyaki dish provides a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Understanding Teriyaki Sauce
Teriyaki sauce is a key component of Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken, bringing distinct flavors to the dish.
- Ingredients: Traditional teriyaki sauce is made from soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar, creating a sweet and savory umami flavor profile.
- Versatile Usage: Teriyaki sauce can be used for marinating, glazing, or drizzling, making it ideal for various dishes beyond chicken, including fish, tofu, and vegetables.
When paired with pineapple, the teriyaki sauce enhances the dish and deepens the overall flavor experience.
The Benefits of Sheet Pan Cooking
Sheet pan cooking offers multiple advantages, particularly for busy individuals or families.
- Time-Saving: A sheet pan meal can be prepared in a single step, reducing the overall preparation and clean-up time.
- Flavor Infusion: Cooking all ingredients together allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a more harmonious dish.
- Healthy Cooking Method: Roasting ingredients on a sheet pan is often healthier than frying, as it requires less oil and allows excess fat to drain away during cooking.
Sheet pan cooking is perfect for those who want quick, effortless meals without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
Meal Prep and Storage
Sheet Pan Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken is an excellent option for meal prepping.
- Batch Cooking: Preparing large quantities at once saves time during the week and ensures that healthy meals are readily available.
- Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing for quick reheating and serving.
- Freezing Options: Many elements of the dish can be frozen separately, making it easy to prepare a meal on busy days.
Planning and preparing meals in advance can lead to healthier eating habits and less reliance on fast food.
Conclusion
Sheet Pan Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken stands out as a delicious, nutritious, and hassle-free meal option.
With its delightful combination of flavors, nutritional benefits, and the advantages of sheet pan cooking, it is an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and casual family dinners.
Encouraging creativity through customization, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the body. Trying out Sheet Pan Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken may lead to a newfound favorite that fits seamlessly into a balanced diet.
Sheet Pan Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup coconut aminos
- 3 tbsp fresh pineapple juice*
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp fresh minced ginger
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp arrowroot starch
- 1 tbsp water
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite sized pieces
- 1.5 cups diced pineapple
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium sized red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup diced fresh cilantro, (optional)
- 2 tbsp green onion, (optional)
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
- Lightly grease a large baking sheet and set aside.
- In a small saucepan:
- Heat coconut aminos, pineapple juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together arrowroot starch and water.
- Add the arrowroot mixture to the sauce and continue cooking until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Reserve a few tablespoons of the sauce for later.
- Spread out the following items over the sheet pan:
- Chicken
- Pineapple
- Bell pepper
- Red onion
- Pour the sauce over the ingredients on the sheet pan.
- Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 22-24 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and top with:
- Cilantro
- Onion
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Serve the dish over rice or cauliflower rice, and spoon the reserved sauce over the top.
Hey readers! Chip Holland here, and I’m a Manager of this website. My passion for writing about it only matches my passion for BBQ. Follow my blog for mouth-watering recipes, tips, and tricks for the perfect smoke, grill, and BBQ. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed!