This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a sweet and sticky delight that will have everyone asking for seconds. The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the tropical flavor of pineapple!
I love making this on sunny days, and the smell while it’s grilling? Just heavenly! Serve it with rice or a salad, and you’ve got a winner. 🍍🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: These provide a lean protein base. You could use chicken thighs for extra juiciness or even plant-based options like tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian twist.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps with caramelization on the grill. If you’re out of honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can work as great substitutes.
Pineapple Juice: This adds a tropical flavor and tenderizes the chicken. If you don’t have pineapple juice, orange juice or apple juice can be a suitable alternative.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce gives a savory depth. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. Coconut aminos is another great alternative for those avoiding soy.
Ground Ginger: Fresh ginger could be used instead for a more vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan of ginger, you can skip it or use a pinch of ground cinnamon for warmth.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Marinade?
Marinating is all about flavor! Allow the chicken strips to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but a few hours or even overnight is better for truly delicious results. Make sure every piece is coated well for uniform flavor.
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl, whisking until smooth.
- Add the chicken strips, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate. The longer, the better!
Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Marinade:
- 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
- 1/4 tsp salt
For The Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, sliced into strips
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Grilled pineapple slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. If you have time, letting it marinate for a few hours will really boost the flavor. The grilling itself takes about 10-14 minutes. So total, you’re looking at around 40-50 minutes for a flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and salt. This combination will bring a sweet and tangy flavor to your chicken, making it extra tasty!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken strips to the marinade, making sure each piece is covered well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—longer if you can! This step is key to enhancing the flavors.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Don’t forget to oil the grill grates lightly to keep the chicken from sticking. This makes flipping and removing the chicken much easier!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken strips directly on the hot grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be cooked through and have beautiful grill marks for that perfect look!
5. Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This lets the juices settle, making the chicken juicy and tender. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. If you like, add some grilled pineapple slices on the side for an extra burst of flavor!
Enjoy your delicious Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken! It’s perfect for a summer barbecue or a tasty weeknight dinner!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but cooking times will vary. Bone-in pieces will take longer to cook through – about 10-15 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
What If I Don’t Have Pineapple Juice?
No worries! You can substitute pineapple juice with orange juice for a different but still delicious flavor. If you want a more tropical twist, consider using mango juice or a mix of fruit juices. Just keep the same amount in the recipe.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help keep it moist.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight intensifies the flavors. Just be sure not to marinate for more than 24 hours, as the acid in the pineapple juice can start to break down the chicken too much, making it mushy.
