This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a tasty treat! Sweet honey and juicy pineapple come together with chicken for a flavor that’s hard to beat. It’s perfect for summer barbecues!
Who knew grilling could be this fun? Whenever I make this dish, the aroma gets everyone excited. Plus, it’s super easy—just marinate and grill! Enjoy it with rice for a yummy meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast Tenders: Chicken breast tenders are tender and cook quickly on the grill. If you can’t find them, chicken thighs are a great alternative for extra moisture and flavor.
Honey: Honey gives sweetness and helps caramelization. If you’re looking for a substitute, agave nectar or maple syrup will work well. They’ll offer a similar sweetness but with a slight flavor twist.
Pineapple Juice: This adds a tropical taste. If fresh pineapple is available, you can blend it to make your own juice. Alternatively, orange juice can be used for a different citrus flavor.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce provides depth and saltiness. For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos. They deliver a similar savoriness without gluten.
Fresh Ginger: Ginger brings a spicy kick. If you don’t have fresh ginger, try using ground ginger, but reduce the amount to about 1/4 teaspoon since it’s more concentrated.
How Do You Marinade Chicken for Grilling?
Marinating is key for flavor and tenderness. It allows the chicken to soak up the delicious sauce! Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Combine marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
- Place the chicken in a bag or container. Pour marinade over and seal tightly. Make sure all pieces are coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but 4 hours will deepen the flavor. Just don’t exceed 24 hours to avoid the chicken becoming mushy.
Make sure to discard the used marinade. When you’re ready, let excess drip off before grilling to avoid flare-ups.
How to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken breast tenders
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Grilling:
- Fresh pineapple slices (for grilling, optional)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes grilling it. Overall, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, including marinating time. It’s time well spent for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and olive oil. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s smooth and well blended.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breast tenders and place them into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade you just made over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and put it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, 4 hours is even better!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess liquids drip off. Be sure to discard the leftover marinade to avoid contaminating the cooked chicken. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste, then place it on the hot grill. Grill each side for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has beautiful grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Add Pineapple (If Desired):
If you want to grill fresh pineapple slices, place them on the grill during the last few minutes of cooking the chicken. This will caramelize the pineapple and add an extra sweet touch to your dish.
5. Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes. After resting, slice the chicken, plate it, and garnish with the grilled pineapple and chopped green onions, if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken!
Can I Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a fantastic substitute for chicken breasts in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, so simply follow the same marinating and grilling instructions. Just keep in mind that they may take a minute longer to cook through, so check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
What If I Don’t Have Pineapple Juice?
If you don’t have pineapple juice on hand, you can substitute it with orange juice or a mix of apple juice and a splash of lemon juice. While the flavor will change slightly, it will still produce a deliciously sweet and tangy marinade!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, consider freezing the chicken. Just wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm gently in the microwave or a hot skillet.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great idea! It allows the flavors to penetrate even deeper into the chicken, making it extra juicy and flavorful. Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as the chicken can become too soft from the acidity in the pineapple juice.
