This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a tasty treat perfect for summer cookouts! The sweet and tangy flavor comes from honey and fresh pineapple, making each bite juicy and delightful.
Honestly, the smell of this chicken sizzling on the grill is hard to beat. I could just stand there and sniff it all day! 😄 Serve it with rice or a salad for a great meal that’s easy to love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal here. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken thighs can be used instead; they will stay juicy and add flavor.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness that balances the savory components. If you’re vegan or out of honey, maple syrup is a fantastic substitute; it has a similar sweetness and syrupy texture.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce is great for this dish, but feel free to use low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter option. Coconut aminos is another alternative for those avoiding soy.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice makes for a bright flavor. If unavailable, canned pineapple juice is fine. You can also use orange juice for a different, yet tasty twist!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides a punch of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you could use garlic powder; just use 1/8 teaspoon per clove.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
The key to juicy grilled chicken lies in the marinating process and cooking method. Marinate for at least an hour or up to overnight to allow all those flavors to penetrate.
- Before grilling, allow the chicken to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes for even cooking.
- Preheat your grill properly to sear the chicken, which locks in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe to eat while keeping it juicy.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling for about 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender bite!
How to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
Optional Additions:
- Fresh pineapple slices (for grilling)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade and chicken, plus at least 1 hour to marinate (or up to overnight if you want more flavor). Cooking on the grill will take another 15-20 minutes. So, plan for a total of 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, pineapple juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will be your flavorful marinade for the chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly, then pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you want a richer flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to cook!
4. Grill the Chicken and Pineapple:
Once the chicken has marinated, take it out of the fridge. Let the excess marinade drip off and discard the leftover marinade. If you’re using fresh pineapple slices, grill them alongside the chicken for about 2-3 minutes per side, until you see grill marks. Then, place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and is beautifully charred.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. You can slice the chicken or serve it whole, as you prefer. If you like, sprinkle chopped green onions on top and serve with those delicious grilled pineapple slices!
Enjoy your tasty honey pineapple grilled chicken—it’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to stay juicier during grilling. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a few extra minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Pineapple Juice?
No worries! You can substitute pineapple juice with orange juice or a mixture of apple juice and a little vinegar for a similar fruity flavor. Just remember to adjust the sweetness to your taste, as honey will add additional sweetness to the marinade.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Adding a splash of water can help retain moisture during reheating.
Can This Recipe Be Made in the Oven or on a Stove?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches the appropriate internal temperature. Alternatively, you can cook it on a stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat for a similar time. Just keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
