This Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is marinated with sweet mango and tangy pineapple for a burst of flavor at every bite.
This dish always makes me feel like I’m on a tropical vacation. I love serving it with rice or fresh salad for a delightful meal everyone enjoys. 🌴🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for grilling. If you’re looking for alternatives, thighs are juicier and can work well too. For a lighter option, consider grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
Mango: Fresh, ripe mango adds sweetness. If out of season, frozen mango is a good alternative—just thaw it first. Pineapple can also be swapped for peaches or nectarines for a different flavor.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives the best taste, but canned works just fine. Look for chunks in juice, not syrup, for a healthier choice. You could use any sweet fruit like strawberries or apples for variety.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow bell peppers provide great color and sweetness. If you want a different flavor, try zucchini or asparagus, which also grill nicely and add a fresh touch.
Marinade Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to play with the soy sauce and honey. If you’re on a low-sodium diet, use a low-sodium soy sauce. Maple syrup can substitute honey for a vegan option.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here are some tips for juicy results! Make sure to properly marinate the chicken to enhance flavor and tenderness. Aim for at least 30 minutes of marinating—longer is even better.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high; a hot grill creates nice grill marks.
- When placing chicken on the grill, avoid moving it too much; let it sear before flipping.
- Cooking time is crucial—about 6-7 minutes per side gives you a great texture. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy—chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- After grilling, always let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes to retain its juices.
How to Make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For Grilling:
- 3 medium yellow bell peppers, cut into strips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to marinate. Grill time is roughly 15 minutes, so plan for a total of about 55 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by making the marinade. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic powder, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed. This will add flavor to your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them into a large resealable bag or a container. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Seal the bag or container and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have the time. The longer it marinates, the tastier it gets!
3. Make the Salsa:
While your chicken is marinating, it’s time to prepare the salsa. In a bowl, combine the diced mango, pineapple chunks, and finely chopped red bell pepper. Gently toss them together and then add the chopped cilantro. Set this aside until you’re ready to serve.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Turn on your grill and preheat it to medium-high heat. Before grilling, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil to help prevent the chicken from sticking.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, take the chicken out of the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
6. Grill the Yellow Bell Peppers:
In the last few minutes of grilling, add the yellow bell pepper strips to the grill. Cook them until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
7. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Then, serve the grilled chicken topped with the mango pineapple salsa and the grilled bell peppers on the side. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Other Fruits for the Salsa?
Absolutely! If you don’t have mango or pineapple, you can use other tropical fruits like papaya, kiwi, or even peach. Just be sure to maintain the sweetness and acidity balance for a tasty salsa!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will actually enhance the flavor! Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity from the lime juice can start to break down the chicken’s texture, making it mushy.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best quality, reheat the chicken in the oven or on the stovetop, and enjoy the salsa cold for a refreshing topping!
What Can I Use Instead of Honey?
If you want to substitute honey, pure maple syrup or agave nectar work well for a similar sweetness. If you prefer a lower-calorie option, try using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol, adjusting the quantity to your taste.
