This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a sweet and tangy treat! Juicy chicken is marinated in honey and topped with fresh pineapple slices, giving it a sunny tropical flavor.
When I make this, it makes me feel like I’m on vacation. Seriously, who can resist that sweet, sticky sauce? Serve it with rice, and you have a meal that everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you want a quicker option, try chicken tenders. For a healthier twist, turkey breast works well, too!
Honey: This ingredient adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken. If you need a substitute, agave syrup or maple syrup can work, but they will change the flavor slightly.
Pineapple Juice: It gives a tropical taste to the marinade. If you’re out of pineapple juice, orange juice can be a fun substitute, adding a different sweet citrus flavor.
Soy Sauce: This brings in a nice umami flavor. You could use tamari if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos as a milder alternative.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth to the marinade. For convenience, you can use garlic powder—about 1/8 teaspoon equals one clove.
Ground Ginger: Fresh ginger is a great substitute if you have it. Just use a smaller amount—about half of what the recipe calls for, as fresh is usually stronger.
How Do I Get My Chicken Juicy and Well-Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but following these steps will help you achieve juicy results. Marinating the chicken is key, as it not only boosts flavor but also tenderizes the meat. Here’s a simple plan:
- Always allow enough marinating time—ideally overnight for maximum flavor.
- Make sure your grill is preheated. This helps to sear the chicken quickly, keeping it moist inside.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked properly.
- Let the meat rest after grilling. This redistributes the juices, making each bite flavorful and juicy.
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
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Grilling:
- Pineapple slices (optional, for grilling)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 1 hour to marinate the chicken. You can marinate it overnight for the best flavor! Grilling will take about 15 to 20 minutes. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 35 minutes, but most of that is marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. In this bowl, whisk together the honey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and salt. This mixture will be your tasty marinade that infuses flavor into the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it in the fridge. Letting it marinate for at least 1 hour is great, but overnight will really boost the flavor!
3. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you want to grill pineapple slices as well, you can preheat a grill pan for those. It’s a great way to add even more flavor to your dish!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and discard any leftover marinade (don’t reuse it!). Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want to check that it’s fully cooked – the internal temperature should hit 165°F (75°C).
5. Grill the Pineapple Slices (Optional):
If you’re using pineapple slices, now’s the time to grill them! Place them on the grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are caramelized and have some nice grill marks.
6. Let It Rest:
Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! After resting, you can slice it into pieces.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now for the fun part! Serve your grilled chicken topped with the delicious grilled pineapple slices. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy every bite!
## FAQ for Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders work best for grilling, you can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just remember that the cooking time may need to be adjusted—ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Pineapple Juice?
If you don’t have pineapple juice on hand, you can use orange juice for a similar sweetness, or a mixture of apple juice and a little vinegar for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. To keep the chicken moist, consider adding a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for more flavor. However, avoid marinating for more than 24 hours as the acid in the pineapple juice can start to break down the chicken, resulting in a mushy texture.
