When grilling season hits, this pineapple teriyaki chicken marinade is the one I reach for first. It’s fresh and flavorful with just the right mix of tangy, sweet, and savory—and it makes chicken incredibly juicy whether you’re grilling, baking, or searing in a skillet. The ingredients are pantry-friendly, and it’s just as easy to make fresh or freeze ahead. If you’re looking for a go-to summer marinade that always delivers, this is it.

RELATED: Pantry-Powered Meals Formula

📌 Save This for Later! Pin this marinade to your summer recipe board so it’s ready when you are.

Ingredients for Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Marinade

(See recipe card below for measurements.)

Boneless chicken breasts or thighs
Pineapple juice
Soy sauce
Brown sugar (or honey for a cleaner option)
Rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
Garlic (minced)
Ginger
Sesame oil (or sub olive oil)
Red pepper flakes or a few drops of hot sauce (optional)

How to Make It

Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl or add directly to a gallon-size freezer bag.
Add chicken and coat evenly.
Marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes to 24 hours—or freeze for later.
Thaw completely before cooking. Grill, bake, or pan-sear until the chicken is fully cooked.

Why Pineapple Works in Chicken Marinade

Pineapple juice is more than just flavorful—its natural enzymes help tenderize meat, making every bite more succulent. The acidity balances the soy sauce and brown sugar, giving the marinade that signature teriyaki-style tang with tropical flair. I buy 6 oz cans of 100% pineapple juice for less waste because we don’t typically drink pineapple juice by itself.

Tips & Variations for Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Marinade

Freezer-friendly: Add the marinade and chicken to a labeled freezer bag. Lay flat to freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Try it with other proteins: Pork tenderloin, tofu, or even shrimp work well.
No pineapple juice? Try orange juice or apple juice as a swap.
Add depth: A spoonful of hoisin or a splash of toasted sesame oil takes it up a notch.

A gallon-size zip-top freezer bag filled with raw chicken and pineapple teriyaki marinade, labeled with a printed recipe card. The bag is placed on a speckled granite countertop. The label includes ingredients, freezer instructions, and a QR code linking to haveyoumade.com.

Free Printable Labels!

Want to make your freezer stash even easier to manage? Grab my free printable label sheet for this marinade! It includes 4 matching labels with thawing and cooking instructions. Stick them on freezer bags or containers so you always know what’s inside.

✅ These labels are sized to fit Avery 8168 shipping labels (3.5″ x 5″)—or print on full-sheet sticker paper and trim by hand.

You’ll get instant access to this label and our full Freebie Library of kitchen printables when you sign up for our newsletter. Already subscribed? Check the Freebie Library under Meal Prep & Cooking!

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy it with a tall glass of homemade sweet tea for a Southern-style meal everyone will love.

Serve with rice and steamed broccoli, or pair with coconut rice and grilled pineapple slices. It also makes a great base for teriyaki rice bowls or stir-fry.

Leftover Ideas

Leftover chicken is excellent cold or warm in wraps, tossed into a salad, or used in this chicken salad for leftovers recipe.

FAQ

Can I use canned pineapple juice?
Yes, just make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugar or syrups.

How long can I freeze it?
For best results, use within 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.

Can I make this without soy sauce?
Try coconut aminos or tamari for a soy-free or gluten-free option.

What cut of chicken works best?
Boneless thighs, breasts, or drumsticks all work—just adjust cook time as needed.

Final Thoughts

This pineapple teriyaki chicken marinade is a quick win—simple to prep, full of flavor, and versatile for both dinner and meal prep. My family loved it, and it couldn’t be easier to throw together and cook. Whether you grill it fresh or pull it from the freezer, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite.