Save This homemade pineapple teriyaki sauce transforms ordinary chicken skewers into an irresistible meal that balances sweet tropical flavors with savory umami notes. The natural sweetness of fresh pineapple creates depth that store bought sauces simply cannot match.
I first created this sauce when hosting a backyard barbecue for friends who were tired of the same old grilled chicken. The moment everyone tasted these glazed skewers, it became my most requested recipe for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- Fresh pineapple: adds natural sweetness and authentic flavor. Look for fruit that feels heavy for its size with a slight give when pressed
- Pineapple juice: enhances the tropical flavor. Fresh is best but canned works in a pinch
- Low sodium soy sauce: provides savory depth without making the sauce too salty. Choose Japanese or Chinese varieties for best results
- Rice vinegar: adds brightness and balances sweetness. Natural brewed varieties offer the cleanest flavor
- Brown sugar: creates caramelization when grilled. Dark brown provides more molasses notes
- Honey: adds viscosity and helps the sauce adhere to chicken. Local raw honey offers the most complex flavor
- Fresh garlic: provides essential aromatic base. Choose firm cloves without green sprouts
- Fresh ginger: adds warmth and authentic Asian flavor. Look for firm rhizomes with tight skin
- Sesame oil: contributes nutty undertones. Always use toasted variety for maximum impact
- Red pepper flakes: provide optional heat that balances sweetness. Adjust to your preference
- Cornstarch: thickens the sauce perfectly. Always mix with cold water before adding
Instructions
- Blend the Pineapple:
- Process fresh pineapple chunks with pineapple juice until completely smooth with no remaining chunks. This creates the fruity base that makes this sauce special. Take time to ensure a silky texture for the best mouthfeel in the finished sauce.
- Combine the Flavor Base:
- Transfer the pineapple puree to a saucepan then add soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir thoroughly to ensure the sugar begins dissolving before heating. This combination creates the perfect balance of sweet, salty, tangy and umami flavors.
- Develop the Flavors:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Allow it to simmer for 3 to 5 minutes so the flavors meld together and the raw taste of garlic and ginger cooks away. Watch carefully as the sugar can burn if heat is too high.
- Create and Add the Slurry:
- In a separate small bowl, thoroughly mix cornstarch and cold water until completely smooth with no lumps. Pour this slurry into the simmering sauce while whisking constantly. The cold slurry prevents clumping when it hits the hot liquid.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Continue simmering while stirring constantly for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce noticeably thickens and coats the back of a spoon. The sauce will become glossy and translucent as it thickens. It will thicken slightly more as it cools.
- Rest and Use:
- Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before using. The sauce can be used warm as a glaze for chicken skewers during the last few minutes of grilling or cooled completely as a dipping sauce. Brushing multiple layers creates the best flavor coating.
Save The fresh ginger is truly the secret ingredient in this sauce. I discovered its importance when I ran out once and used powdered ginger instead. The difference was remarkable. Fresh ginger provides bright aromatic notes that perfectly complement the sweet pineapple and create that authentic Asian flavor profile we all love.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This sauce keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors actually continue to develop and meld over the first 24 hours, making it an ideal make-ahead option for entertaining. When ready to use refrigerated sauce, gently warm it in a saucepan or microwave to restore its original consistency, as it will thicken considerably when chilled.
For longer storage, this sauce freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into ice cube trays for convenient single-serving sizes that defrost quickly. These frozen cubes can be added directly to stir-fries or defrosted overnight in the refrigerator when needed for dipping or glazing.
Perfect Pairings
This versatile sauce pairs beautifully with more than just chicken skewers. Try it with grilled pork tenderloin, pan-seared salmon, or as a glaze for roasted vegetables. For an impressive appetizer, serve it alongside crispy coconut shrimp or use it to dress an Asian-inspired slaw.
For a complete meal, serve chicken skewers with this sauce alongside coconut rice, which complements the tropical pineapple notes perfectly. Add a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil to balance the meal with something light and refreshing.
Customization Options
The beauty of this sauce is its adaptability to your personal preferences. For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add a teaspoon of sriracha. If you prefer a more savory profile, reduce the sugar and honey by half.
For a more complex flavor, try adding a tablespoon of miso paste or a splash of mirin (Japanese sweet cooking wine). To create a creamier variation, stir in a tablespoon of tahini or natural peanut butter after removing from heat.
Those watching sugar intake can substitute monk fruit sweetener for the brown sugar and use a sugar-free honey alternative, though the sauce won't caramelize quite as nicely when grilled.
Save This pineapple teriyaki sauce is a game-changer for any grilled chicken dish. Its complex flavor profile, from sweet pineapple to savory soy, makes it the perfect accompaniment for your next barbecue or weeknight meal.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can canned pineapple be used?
Yes! Drain canned pineapple well before blending to achieve the right consistency and flavor balance.
- → How can I make it gluten-free?
Simply substitute the soy sauce with gluten-free tamari for a safe and delicious alternative.
- → Is this sauce spicy?
It's mildly spicy, but the heat level can be adjusted by adding or omitting red pepper flakes to taste.
- → How long does it keep in the fridge?
This sauce stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container.
- → Can I use it as a marinade?
Yes, the sauce doubles as a quick marinade for chicken—simply coat and let it rest before grilling.
- → What pairs well with this sauce?
It's delicious with chicken skewers but also complements tofu, shrimp, pork, or roasted vegetables.