This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a tasty treat with juicy chicken soaked in a sweet and tangy mixture. The pineapple adds a fun burst of flavor that everyone will love!
Grilling chicken is my favorite way to enjoy dinner outdoors. The smell alone will make your neighbors jealous! Just serve it with rice or a salad for an easy meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this recipe as they cook quickly and evenly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken thighs can be used, or even tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
Pineapple Juice: Using fresh pineapple juice adds a bright flavor. You can substitute it with orange juice if needed, though the taste will vary. Canned pineapple juice works too, but check for added sugars.
Honey: Honey gives a beautiful sweetness. If you’re vegan or have a honey allergy, agave syrup or maple syrup can work well as substitutes.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative, while coconut aminos can be used for a soy-free option.
Ginger: Fresh ginger is ideal for its vibrant flavor, but if you don’t have it, ground ginger will suffice. Just remember that dried ginger is a bit less potent so you might need a little more.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is crucial for juicy, flavorful chicken! Follow these steps to get the best results:
- Mix the Marinade: Combine pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Whisk until mixed.
- Coat the Chicken: Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over. Ensure every piece is coated. Seal tightly.
- Chill Time: Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Overnight is even better for deep flavor.
- Remove and Dry: Before grilling, take the chicken out and let excess marinade drip off to prevent flare-ups on the grill.
Taking care during the marinating process makes a huge difference! Enjoy your grilled chicken’s delicious and vibrant taste!
How to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders
- 1 cup fresh pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Grilling:
- Fresh pineapple slices for grilling (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour (or preferably overnight) to marinate the chicken. You’ll also need about 15-20 minutes for grilling. So, all together, plan for around 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Whisk together the pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, salt, and pepper until everything is well mixed. This flavorful marinade is what will make your chicken juicy and delicious!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Now, take the chicken breasts or tenders and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have the time, let it sit overnight for even more flavor!
3. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking. It’s important to make sure the grill is nice and hot for that perfect grill mark!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let the excess drip off. Remember to discard the leftover marinade to keep things safe! Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked.
5. Add Pineapple (Optional):
If you’re using fresh pineapple slices, add them to the grill during the last few minutes of cooking. They should get a lovely caramelized look as they grill alongside the chicken!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken and pineapple are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! After resting, slice the chicken and serve it with the grilled pineapple. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro if you’d like. Now, enjoy your amazing Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken!
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of breasts or tenders for a richer flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as darker meat might require a few additional minutes on the grill.
Can I Substitute the Pineapple Juice?
Yes, you can use orange juice or a mix of pineapple and coconut juice for a tropical twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly depending on your choice!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may separate. This can save you time on busy days!
