This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a tasty combo of sweet and savory. The juicy chicken is marinated in honey and pineapple juice, giving it a bright flavor that’s simply irresistible!
Grilling makes everything better, right? 😄 I love how easy it is to toss the chicken on the grill and enjoy the yummy smell while waiting—perfect for summer nights or any day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast Tenders: These are tender and cook evenly on the grill. If you can’t find tenders, chicken breasts cut into strips work just as well. Thighs can also be a juicier alternative.
Honey: Honey brings sweetness to the dish. If you prefer a lower-glycemic option, try using agave syrup or maple syrup instead. Note that this will change the flavor slightly, but it’s still delicious!
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice is ideal for a bright flavor. You can use canned juice in a pinch, but ensure it’s 100% juice for the best taste. Other tropical juices, like mango or orange, can also be swapped in.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a lovely zing. If you don’t have it, ground ginger can work, but use less since it’s more concentrated. I’ve even skipped it when I’m out and it still tastes great!
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a bit of heat. For a milder version, you can omit them. If you want more spice, try adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper instead.
How Do I Get the Chicken Grilled Just Right?
Grilling chicken without drying it out can be tricky, but here are some easy tips! Start with marinating your chicken well; overnight is best for absorbing moisture and flavor. When grilling, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat for that perfect sear.
- Remove excess marinade but don’t rinse! A little marinade on the chicken helps it caramelize.
- Cook each side for 5-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F.
- Let it rest after grilling for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, so your chicken stays juicy.
How to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken breast tenders
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
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 2 hours for marinating (or overnight for the best flavor). Cooking on the grill will take around 15 minutes. So, plan for about 2 hours and 30 minutes total, including cooking time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Whisk together the honey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger (if you’re using it), black pepper, and red pepper flakes. This mixture is going to infuse your chicken with sweet, tangy flavors. It smells amazing!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place your chicken breast tenders in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but if you can, let it sit overnight. The longer, the better!
3. Get the Grill Ready:
Now, it’s time to fire up the grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F. This is the perfect temperature for grilling chicken, getting those juicy results you want.
4. Prepare the Chicken:
After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge. Let the excess marinade drip off back into the bowl. Remember to throw away the leftover marinade—it’s not safe to reuse.
5. Grill the Chicken and Pineapple:
If you’re using fresh pineapple slices, place them on the grill first. They only take about 3-4 minutes per side to get those nice grill marks. Next, place the chicken tenders on the grill. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You want them to be fully cooked, juicy, and packed with flavor!
6. Let Them Rest:
Once done, take the chicken and pineapple off the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy as they cool down a bit.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Time to dig in! Serve the grilled chicken with the grilled pineapple slices on top. If you want a pop of color, sprinkle some fresh cilantro over the top. Enjoy your delicious Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken!
Can I Use Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs are a great substitute as they remain tender and juicy when grilled. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook compared to chicken breasts.
What If I Don’t Have Pineapple Juice?
No worries! You can substitute pineapple juice with orange juice for a different flavor profile, or even a mixture of lemon and lime juice for a zesty twist. If you’re looking for a less sweet option, diluted vinegar (like apple cider vinegar) will also work as a marinade base.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for the best flavor, but if you’re short on time, even 2 hours will help enhance the taste. Just be careful not to marinate for longer than 24 hours, as the acid in the marinade can start to break down the chicken and affect its texture.
Can I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the grill or in the microwave, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving again. Enjoy the flavors all over again!
