Foil Packet Chicken Teriyaki - delicious Canadian chicken recipe
Medium

Foil Packet Chicken Teriyaki

(461)
30 min4464 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|January 15, 2024

This Foil Packet Chicken Teriyaki recipe is a Canadian favourite that brings incredible flavour to your dinner table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend cooking, this dish features tender, juicy chicken paired with carefully balanced seasonings that the whole family will love. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or cooking for guests, this recipe delivers consistent, restaurant-quality results every time. Every step has been tested in Canadian kitchens using ingredients available at your local grocery store. With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can have this delicious meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of simple techniques and bold flavours makes this one of the most requested chicken recipes on our site. Bookmark this page and add it to your regular rotation — you will not be disappointed.

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Ingredients

Servings:
4

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Mise en Place Saves Time

Even for quick recipes, spend 3 minutes measuring and prepping everything before you turn on the heat. It sounds counterintuitive, but it actually speeds up cooking because you're never scrambling mid-recipe.

Bring to Room Temperature

Take chicken out of the fridge 20-30 minutes before cooking. Cold chicken straight from the fridge cooks unevenly — the outside overcooks while the centre stays underdone.

About This Recipe

This Foil Packet Chicken Teriyaki is a beloved weeknight staple that brings a taste of the Asian-inspired cuisine right into Canadian homes. What makes it special is the harmony of flavours created by the rich soy sauce, nutty sesame oil, and zesty fresh ginger, all working together to elevate the juicy chicken. It’s an effortless dish that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary, making it perfect for busy families or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favourite among home cooks across Canada.

The beauty of cooking in foil packets lies in the steaming effect, which locks in moisture, ensuring each bite is tender and bursting with flavour. As you unwrap the foil, you’ll be greeted by a tantalizing aroma and vibrant colours from the green onions and ginger, enticing everyone to the table. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend, this dish is bound to become a regular feature in your culinary repertoire, providing comfort and satisfaction with every bite.

Tips for the Best Foil Packet Chicken Teriyaki

To ensure your chicken remains juicy and perfectly cooked, aim for an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to promote even cooking and avoid dryness. The cornstarch in the marinade acts as a thickening agent, so allow it to sit for a few minutes before cooking to achieve that glossy finish. Remember to check for doneness a minute or two before the suggested cooking time, as overcooking can lead to dryness.

What to Serve With It

For a delightful serving suggestion, plate your Foil Packet Chicken Teriyaki over fluffy steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, allowing the grains to soak up the delicious sauce. Add a side of sautéed bok choy or a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch. If you're feeling adventurous, throw in some grilled asparagus or sweet bell peppers for a vibrant, seasonal touch. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp Canadian white wine or a lightly brewed green tea.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to maintain moisture. If you want to freeze, ensure the chicken and sauce cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag, where it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to enjoy it again.

Nutrition Per Serving

464
Calories
35g
Protein
18g
Fat
41g
Carbs
Fiber4g
Sugar2g
Sodium602mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?+

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavour and moisture to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?+

If sesame oil isn't available, you can substitute with olive oil or canola oil. While it won't have the same nutty flavour, it will still work well with the other ingredients.

Can I add vegetables to the foil packet?+

Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas can enhance the dish. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes and adjust cooking time as needed.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?+

If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of water or chicken broth while cooking to reach your desired consistency. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?+

Definitely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, store them separately in the fridge, and then assemble and cook when you're ready to eat.

Reviews

4.8 / 5 (461 reviews)
Ashley T.
Jul 13, 2025

My family loved this recipe. Will definitely make again!

Michelle G.
Jun 11, 2025

Followed the recipe exactly and it was perfect.

Daniel N.
May 25, 2025

The flavours are incredible. Restaurant quality at home!

Amanda L.
Nov 6, 2025

Easy to follow and turned out amazing. A new favourite.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:
15 min
Cook:
15 min
Total:
30 min
Servings:
4
Difficulty:
Medium

Pro Tips

  • 1Always pat chicken dry before cooking for the best sear and crispiest skin.
  • 2Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 74°C (165°F) for food safety.
  • 3Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.

Variations

  • Substitute chicken thighs for breast for a juicier, more forgiving result.
  • Add your favourite seasonal vegetables to make it a complete one-dish meal.
  • Adjust spice levels to your personal preference — start mild and add more heat gradually.

Asian-Inspired Chicken

Foil Packet Chicken Teriyaki

This Foil Packet Chicken Teriyaki is pure comfort food. Save it before you forget!

by ChickenRecipes.ca

Foil Packet Chicken Teriyaki - delicious Canadian chicken recipe
Chef Marco Deluca

Chef Marco Deluca

Head Chef & Recipe Developer

Marco is a Red Seal certified chef with over 15 years of professional kitchen experience across Canada. After training at George Brown College in Toronto and working in acclaimed restaurants from Vancouver to Montreal, he founded ChickenRecipes.ca to share his expertise with home cooks. Marco specializes in making restaurant-quality chicken dishes accessible for everyday Canadian kitchens.

Red Seal Certified ChefGeorge Brown College Culinary Arts Graduate15+ years professional kitchen experience

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