This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a tasty treat! It features juicy chicken marinated in a sweet mixture of honey and pineapple, giving it a bright and tropical taste.
Grilling it brings out the best flavors, and the sweet glaze makes your taste buds dance! I love serving it with rice or salad for a complete meal. You’ll be hooked after the first bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I love using chicken breast for its lean texture. For a juicier option, bone-in, skin-on pieces work great too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey breast can be a fun substitute!
Honey: Honey adds the sweetness in this dish. If you need a substitute, agave nectar or maple syrup can work well, though they will slightly change the flavor.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice provides a bright flavor. If you don’t have it, orange juice can be a nice alternative, bringing its own zing to the dish. Just remember that it might taste a bit different.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce brings saltiness and depth. If you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos for a similar taste without the soy. It’s milder and a great alternative!
Garlic and Ginger: Both garlic and ginger add wonderful warmth. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder and ground ginger can be used, but fresh is always my preference for a more vibrant flavor.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy on the Grill?
Grilling can dry out chicken if not done properly, so here’s how to keep it juicy:
- Marinate Well: Let your chicken soak in the marinade for at least 2 hours. Overnight is even better for maximum flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Rest: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
- High Heat, Short Time: Grill on medium-high heat. This means quick cooking, which keeps the chicken juicy. Aim for 6-7 minutes per side, checking for doneness.
Follow these tips, and you’re sure to have perfectly juicy chicken every time! Enjoy your grilling experience!
How to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Optional Extras:
- Fresh pineapple slices (for grilling)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 2 hours to marinate. Plus, you’ll need about 15 minutes for grilling. Overall, you’ll have delicious grilled chicken in about 2 hours and 30 minutes, but most of that time is for marinating to soak up the flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium-sized bowl. In this bowl, whisk together the honey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and vegetable oil. Mix it well until combined, and you’ll have a tasty marinade ready for the chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken strips and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are nicely coated. If using a bag, seal it up tightly. If you’re using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap. Pop it in the fridge and let it marinate for at least 2 hours. If you can, leave it overnight for even more flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you have fresh pineapple slices to grill, brush them lightly with oil so they don’t stick. After marinating, remove the chicken from the bag or dish, letting any excess marinade drip off (don’t forget to throw away the leftover marinade!). Place the chicken strips on the grill. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have those lovely grill marks. If you’re grilling the pineapple, add it to the grill around the last 3-4 minutes of cooking.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps it stay juicy! Serve your grilled chicken on a plate, garnished with some chopped green onions. If you grilled pineapple slices, add those alongside for a tropical touch. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Instead of Boneless Strips?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken; however, cooking times will vary. Bone-in pieces generally need about 10-15 minutes longer on the grill, depending on the size. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure they are fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Pineapple Juice?
No worries! You can substitute pineapple juice with orange juice or even apple juice for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that it will change the taste slightly but still remain delicious!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply use the microwave or warm it up on the grill for a few minutes until heated through.
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the marinade a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before using, and it will still work perfectly for marinating your chicken!
