Pineapple Teriyaki Grilled Pork

Looking for a pork dish that’s juicy, caramelized, and bursting with tropical flavor? This pineapple teriyaki grilled pork delivers the perfect blend of sweet and savory with a smoky char from the grill.

The combination of fresh pineapple and homemade teriyaki sauce creates an irresistible glaze that locks in moisture and enhances the natural richness of the pork.

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Instead of using a basic marinade, this recipe infuses the pork with layers of flavor. The teriyaki sauce, made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and fresh ginger, adds depth and a glossy finish.

Grilling the pork caramelizes the sugars in the marinade, giving it a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The pineapple not only complements the teriyaki but also acts as a natural tenderizer, making each bite incredibly soft and flavorful.

Why You’ll Want to Make This Recipe

This recipe brings together sweet, salty, smoky, and tangy flavors in one dish. The balance of fresh pineapple and rich teriyaki sauce makes the pork incredibly juicy and flavorful.

• Perfectly Tender and Juicy – The pineapple’s natural enzymes help break down the pork, making it extra tender.
• Sweet and Savory Teriyaki Glaze – The sauce caramelizes on the grill, giving the pork a deep, glossy finish.
• Quick and Easy – The marinade does most of the work, and the cooking time is under 15 minutes.
• Great for Grilling – The slight char from the grill enhances the smoky, caramelized flavors.
• Pairs Well with Many Sides – Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or even grilled pineapple for an extra tropical touch.

If you love grilled pork with a balance of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is a must-try.

Essential Ingredients for the Best Grilled Pork

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures a bold, well-balanced dish. Each one plays an important role in enhancing flavor and texture.

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• Pork Chops or Pork Tenderloin – Both cuts work well, offering a juicy and tender bite when grilled.
• Fresh Pineapple – Adds natural sweetness and acts as a tenderizer, making the pork softer and more flavorful.
• Soy Sauce – Provides a deep umami flavor and balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
• Brown Sugar – Helps create a caramelized, sticky glaze on the pork.
• Garlic and Ginger – Enhance the teriyaki sauce with bold, aromatic flavors.
• Rice Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance the sweetness.
• Sesame Oil – Infuses the marinade with a light nutty aroma.

With these simple but flavorful ingredients, you get a grilled pork dish that’s rich, balanced, and packed with umami.

How to Make Pineapple Teriyaki Grilled Pork

This recipe is easy to follow and delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.

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1. Prepare the Marinade – In a bowl, mix soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir well.
2. Marinate the Pork – Coat the pork with the teriyaki marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
3. Preheat the Grill – Heat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
4. Grill the Pork – Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, basting with extra marinade until caramelized and fully cooked (145°F/63°C internal temp).
5. Grill the Pineapple – Place pineapple slices on the grill for 2-3 minutes per side until slightly charred.
6. Rest and Serve – Let the pork rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with grilled pineapple and extra teriyaki sauce.

The combination of smoky char, caramelized glaze, and juicy pork makes every bite unforgettable.

How to Get the Best Flavor and Texture

• Use Fresh Pineapple – Canned pineapple works, but fresh pineapple enhances both flavor and tenderness.
• Marinate Overnight for Maximum Flavor – Letting the pork sit in the teriyaki sauce deepens the flavors and keeps it juicy.
• Don’t Overcook the Pork – Grill just until 145°F (63°C) to keep the meat tender and juicy.
• Baste While Grilling – Brushing on extra marinade while grilling builds a thicker, more flavorful glaze.
• Let the Pork Rest Before Slicing – This prevents juices from running out, keeping the meat moist.

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Following these steps ensures your pork is packed with flavor, caramelized to perfection, and never dry.

Side Dishes for Pineapple Teriyaki Grilled Pork

This dish pairs well with both classic and tropical-inspired side dishes.

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Side Dish	Why It Works
Coconut Rice	Adds a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the teriyaki glaze.
Grilled Pineapple Rings	Enhances the tropical flavors while adding caramelized sweetness.
Steamed Bok Choy	A light, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet pork.
Sesame Ginger Noodles	A flavorful, savory side that complements the teriyaki.
Garlic Butter Green Beans	Fresh, crisp, and lightly seasoned for balance.
Mango Avocado Salsa	A refreshing, tangy contrast to the rich pork.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes	Adds natural sweetness to complement the pineapple and teriyaki.

These side dishes bring balance to the meal while keeping the flavors exciting.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your pork juicy and flavorful, follow these storage tips.

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the Stovetop – Warm in a pan over medium-low heat with a splash of water or sauce to retain moisture.
• Microwave with Care – Heat in short bursts, covering with a damp paper towel to keep the meat juicy.
• Freeze for Later – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

These methods help maintain the flavor and texture of the pork.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pork tenderloin instead of pork chops?

Yes! Pork tenderloin works great. Slice it into medallions or grill it whole, then slice before serving.

What can I substitute for brown sugar?

Honey or maple syrup work well as natural sweeteners, keeping the glaze rich and sticky.

Can I bake instead of grilling?

Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, basting with marinade halfway through.

What’s the best way to prevent pork from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grill grates and let the pork develop a crust before flipping to avoid sticking.

How do I know when the pork is done?

Use a meat thermometer and remove the pork from the grill at 145°F (63°C) for optimal juiciness.