This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a tasty dish that’s sure to please! Juicy chicken is marinated in a sweet mix of honey and pineapple for a tropical twist.
Picture this: grilling outside while the sweet scent fills the air. It’s the perfect meal for sunny days, and it pairs wonderfully with rice or a fresh salad. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is ideal for this recipe as it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work great too! They might add extra juiciness.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and stickiness. If you need a substitute, agave syrup or maple syrup can work in a pinch, but the flavor will change a bit.
Pineapple Juice: This ingredient gives a bright, tropical flavor. If you’re out of pineapple juice, orange juice can offer a nice alternative, though it will taste different.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce contributes a salty umami flavor. For a gluten-free option, try using tamari or coconut aminos.
Ground Ginger: Fresh ginger can be used instead of ground ginger for a more potent flavor, just be sure to grate it finely. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it entirely!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Grilled Perfectly?
To grill chicken perfectly, follow these tips for moist, tasty results. First, marinating is key! The longer you marinate, the more flavor your chicken will absorb. Even a quick hour makes a difference.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high to get a good sear and those nice grill marks.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each chicken piece space for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer! The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked.
- Let it rest after grilling for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
How to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Grilling (Optional):
- Fresh pineapple wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour of marinating time in the fridge. You’ll also need around 15 minutes for grilling. So, in total, you’re looking at approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes (1 hour for marinating and 15 minutes for cooking). Perfect for a weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Whisk together the honey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. This combination is going to give your chicken a delightful sweet and tangy flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Put your chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have more time, letting it sit for up to 4 hours will make it even tastier.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step is key for getting those perfect grill marks on your chicken!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and let the excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Grill the Pineapple (Optional):
If you’re using fresh pineapple wedges, throw them onto the grill during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Turn them occasionally until they’re caramelized and golden.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your chicken is done, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the grilled chicken alongside the caramelized pineapple wedges. Enjoy your meal and the wonderful flavors you’ve created!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. They may take a bit longer to cook due to their higher fat content, so be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. Start with about 1/4 teaspoon and adjust according to your spice preference!
Can I Store Leftover Chicken?
Yes, store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat. Adding a splash of pineapple juice can help keep it moist!
Can I Use Canned Pineapple Juice?
Of course! Canned pineapple juice is a great substitute for fresh juice. Just make sure to choose a brand that doesn’t contain added sugars for a more authentic flavor. The recipe will turn out just fine!
