Grilled Pineapple Chicken

Short Description

Tender, flavorful chicken breasts grilled alongside caramelized pineapple, bathed in a tangy-sweet marinade packed with ginger, garlic, soy, and a hint of heat— bright, savory, and perfect for any cookout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy chicken infused with tropical sweetness
• Caramelized pineapple adds fresh flavor and texture
• Simple prep, visually appealing, and bursting with balanced flavors

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll Find The Full List Of Ingredients And Measurements In The Recipe Card Below.)

For The Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
• 1 fresh pineapple, cored and sliced into ½‑inch rings
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For The Pineapple Marinade

• ½ cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

1. Make the Marinade – Whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, lime juice, lime zest, red pepper flakes (if using), and cilantro in a bowl.
2. Marinate the Chicken – Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Prepare the Grill – Preheat grill or grill pan to medium‑high. Clean and oil the grates.
4. Grill the Chicken – Season chicken lightly with salt and pepper. Grill each side for about 6–7 minutes, basting occasionally with reserved marinade, until fully cooked (internal temp should reach 165°F).
5. Grill the Pineapple – While the chicken cooks, grill pineapple rings for about 2–3 minutes per side until they’re golden and caramelized.
6. Rest and Serve – Let grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with pineapple rings on top or alongside.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Serves 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus up to 2 hours or overnight for marinating)
• Cook Time: About 15 minutes total
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 25 minutes (with 2-hour marination)

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use chicken thighs for juicier results or shrimp for a lighter option.
• Flavor Boost: Add a splash of orange juice or a pinch of chili powder to deepen flavor.
• Citrus Switch: Substitute honey with agave or use brown sugar alternatives like coconut sugar.
• Herb Addition: Fresh basil or mint adds an aromatic lift when sprinkled just before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store grilled chicken and pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the grill or in a skillet for 2–3 minutes each side to retain juiciness and texture.

FAQs

Can I Skip Marinating Overnight?

Yes—2 hours is adequate, but overnight marinade deepens flavor.

Can I Grill With Canned Pineapple?

Absolutely—just make sure to drain the rings before grilling to reduce stickiness.

Will the Marinade Thicken While Grilling?

The basting marinade may thicken slightly, but it’s mostly meant for flavor and moisture—not glazing.

Can I Grill These Indoors?

Yes—a stovetop grill pan works well. Just monitor cooking temps to avoid flare-ups.

What’s a Good Side for This Dish?

Serve with coconut rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad to complement the tropical flavor.

Can I Make It Less Sweet?

Reduce the brown sugar or omit the honey to make it less sweet.

Is This Recipe Kid‑Friendly?

Yes—its mild sweetness and familiar flavors make it a hit with kids. Skip the red pepper if you want no heat.

Can I Freeze Leftovers?

Yes—freeze cooked chicken and pineapple separately. Thaw thoroughly and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Grilled Pineapple Chicken marries juicy, marinated chicken with sweet, smoky pineapple for a fragrant, colorful dish that’s both simple and spectacular. Ideal for summer grilling, weeknight meals, or bringing a tropical twist to your table.

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