This honey pineapple grilled chicken is a sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for outdoor cookouts. Juicy chicken gets a tasty glaze from honey and pineapple, making each bite delicious!
Grilling brings out the flavors, and trust me, your guests will be coming back for seconds. I like to serve it with rice or salad for a complete meal. Yum! 🍍🐔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders are best for this recipe as they cook quickly and remain juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try turkey cutlets instead!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness that balances the acidity of the pineapple juice. If you’re vegan or need a substitute, pure maple syrup or agave nectar works well, providing a similar sweetness.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have any, use canned juice, but watch out for added sugars. You can also use orange juice for a different flavor angle!
Ground Ginger: Ground ginger is great here; however, fresh ginger offers a brighter flavor. Adjust the amount to your taste. If you’re not a fan, omit it or use garlic instead for extra flavor.
Garnishes: Fresh pineapple slices are optional but add a sweet, smoky twist. If you want a different garnish, fresh cilantro or parsley can brighten up the dish interestingly.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here are my tips for a juicy finish:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but ideally overnight. This improves flavor and tenderness remarkably.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat; this allows for even cooking without burning the exterior.
- Remove excess marinade before grilling. Keeping it too soggy can prevent nice grill marks and caramelization.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safety and juiciness.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling – this helps redistribute juices for a more flavorful bite.
How to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger (or 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Grilling:
- Fresh pineapple slices (for grilling, optional)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour for marinating. If you can let the chicken marinate overnight, that’s even better! Cooking on the grill will take around 15 minutes. In total, you’re looking at a little over an hour for a delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This sweet and tangy mixture will work wonders on your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Once all the chicken is covered, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour or, for the best flavor, overnight if you have the time!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat. If you want to grill fresh pineapple slices, lightly brush them with a tiny bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess sauce drip off. Place the chicken on the preheated grill. Grill for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is nice and caramelized, and its internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can enjoy those beautiful grill marks!
5. Grill the Pineapple (Optional):
If you’re using fresh pineapple slices, add them to the grill during the last few minutes of cooking. Grill them until they’re slightly caramelized and tender. They make a delicious sweet side!
6. Let it Rest:
Once the chicken is cooked and the pineapple is grilled, take them off the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This will make it even juicier!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your honey pineapple grilled chicken warm, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Don’t forget to add those grilled pineapple slices if you made them! Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, bone-in chicken can be used, but it will take longer to cook. Make sure to adjust the grilling time to about 10-12 minutes per side, monitoring the internal temperature to reach 165°F. You may want to cover the grill to help the chicken cook through evenly.
What Can I Substitute for Pineapple Juice?
If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can use orange juice or apple juice as a substitute. For a more tropical flavor, try coconut water or a mix of equal parts water and lemon juice for a citrus twist!
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer Than Overnight?
While marinating overnight is great for flavor, marinating for more than 24 hours may start to break down the chicken too much, making it mushy. Stick to a maximum of 24 hours for the best texture!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
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. Add a splash of water or chicken broth if it seems dry!
