This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is the perfect mix of sweet and savory! Juicy chicken breasts are marinated in honey and pineapple juice, then grilled to perfection.
Trust me, the smell alone will make your mouth water! I love serving this with a side of rice to soak up the tasty juices. It’s a hit at every barbecue! 🍍🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast Tenders: These are my go-to since they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you have chicken thighs, they can be a great alternative for a richer flavor. Bone-in chicken can also work, but will take longer to cook.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh juice gives the best flavor, but you can use canned pineapple juice if needed. For a different twist, try using orange juice or mango juice for a unique take on the marinade.
Honey: Raw honey adds a fantastic sweetness, but if you’re looking for a vegan option, agave syrup works perfectly as a substitute. Maple syrup can also be an interesting alternative with a different flavor profile.
Soy Sauce: I’m fond of low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari instead. Coconut aminos is another great substitution that adds a slightly sweeter taste.
Ginger: Fresh ginger really brightens the dish. Ground ginger works in a pinch, but if you love that spicy kick, I recommend using fresh whenever possible!
How Do You Marinade Chicken Perfectly?
Marinating chicken is key to flavor and tenderness. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix your marinade in a bowl, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Place the chicken in a zip-top bag for easy mixing. Pour the marinade in and seal the bag.
- Massage the chicken gently to coat every piece; it helps the flavors penetrate.
- Let it marinate in the fridge. At least 1 hour is a must, but 4 hours is better for maximum flavor!
- When ready to grill, shake off excess marinade. It prevents flare-ups and allows the chicken to sear nicely.
This technique makes sure your chicken is juicy and full of flavor, making each bite amazing!
How to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken breast tenders
- 1/2 cup fresh pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger (or 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh pineapple slices
- Chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of active prep time, with at least 1 hour of marinating time (4 hours for best flavor). After that, grilling will take another 12-16 minutes. So, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes in total to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the fresh pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well mixed—this will be your tasty marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breast tenders and place them in a zip-top plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and gently toss it to make sure all the chicken pieces are well coated. Pop the bag in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, letting it sit for 4 hours will give you even more flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook it for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You’re looking for the chicken to be golden brown, slightly charred, and to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Add Some Pineapple (Optional):
If you’d like, you can grill some fresh pineapple slices for extra flavor during the last few minutes of cooking. Just place the slices on the grill and let them warm up—yum!
5. Serve It Up:
Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Feel free to garnish with chopped green onions and grilled pineapple slices before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful result. Just keep in mind that they may take a little longer to cook, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving. Adjust grill time to about 8-10 minutes per side depending on thickness.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but 4 hours is even better! If you’re short on time, a quick 30-minute marinade will still add some flavor, but the longer it sits, the more the chicken will absorb the sweetness and zest from the marinade.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before marinating the chicken. This can save you time on the day you’re grilling!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to maintain its juiciness. If the chicken feels dry, you can add a splash of pineapple juice or a bit of broth while reheating.
