This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a sweet and juicy delight! The honey and pineapple blend creates a tasty glaze that makes the chicken burst with flavor. It’s perfect for summer BBQs!
Grilling this dish adds a lovely smoky touch that perfectly pairs with the sweetness. Plus, your friends will think you’re a pro chef! I love serving it with a fresh salad for a colorful meal!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I used boneless skinless chicken breasts for their convenience. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. You can also use tofu for a veggie version!
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice is best, but canned juice works well too. If you want a fun twist, try orange juice or coconut water instead.
Honey: Local honey adds a lovely flavor. For a vegan option, maple syrup or agave nectar is a great substitute.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep it lighter. If avoiding soy, coconut aminos can provide a similar taste with less salt.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is my go-to for its strong flavor. You could substitute with garlic powder if needed, but fresh is definitely better.
Ground Ginger: Fresh ginger works great too! You’d want to grate about a teaspoon if that’s what you have on hand. Ground ginger is a handy pantry staple, but fresh gives a nice zing.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy and Flavors Soak In?
The key to flavorful and juicy chicken is marinating! Aim for at least 1 hour, but 4 hours or overnight is best. This allows the flavors from the marinade to really penetrate the chicken.
- Mix your marinade well and ensure the chicken is completely coated.
- Seal your bag tightly to minimize air, which helps the chicken absorb all the flavors.
- Let it marinate in the fridge, as it keeps the chicken safe and allows for better flavor infusion.
How Do I Grill Chicken to Get Perfect Marks and Cook It Thoroughly?
Grilling gives chicken delicious marks and flavor, but it’s crucial to cook it just right. Here are some tips:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high. A hot grill helps create those perfect grill marks.
- Allow the chicken strips to rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling. This helps them cook evenly.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time—about 5-7 minutes per side should do it. Check for those lovely grill marks!
- Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure. Chicken is done when it reaches 165°F.
After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices in!
How to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
Optional:
- Fresh pineapple slices (for grilling and serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken (preferably 4 hours or overnight). Grilling will take approximately 10-14 minutes. In total, make sure to plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on marination time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well blended. This is your delicious marinade that will infuse your chicken with flavor!
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. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but for the best taste, aim for 4 hours or even overnight!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’d like to grill fresh pineapple slices, brush them lightly with olive oil to enhance their flavor while grilling.
4. Get Ready to Grill:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and allow the excess to drip off. Discard the marinade—this step keeps your chicken safe and tasty!
5. Grill the Chicken:
Now it’s time to cook! Place the chicken strips on the grill and grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks. If you’re grilling pineapple slices, do so for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are grill-marked and their juices start to flow.
6. Let It Rest:
Once your chicken is done, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it extra juicy and delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to enjoy! Serve your grilled chicken with the grilled pineapple slices on the side. Drizzle a little extra honey on top if you like it sweet. Enjoy your flavorful Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor and stay juicier than breasts when grilled. Just adjust the cooking time slightly; they may take a couple of extra minutes to cook through. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Pineapple Juice?
If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can use orange juice or a combination of apple juice with a splash of vinegar for added acidity. You can also use store-bought or homemade citrus marinades for a different flavor profile.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the grill to retain its flavor and moisture. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just be sure to use freezer-safe containers!
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can make the marinade up to 2 days ahead of time! Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. This will also allow the flavors to meld more, giving your chicken an even better taste!
