Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken brings a sweet and tangy twist to your dinner plate! This tasty dish features tender chicken paired with juicy mango and pineapple, creating a burst of flavor.
Who knew that fruit could be such a great buddy to chicken? I love how the grill gives everything a nice char while keeping it juicy. It’s perfect for summer nights or when you want a taste of sunshine!
I usually serve it with rice or a fresh salad. It’s super easy to whip up and always makes everyone smile. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling! If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using chicken thighs, which are juicier. Tofu can be a fantastic substitute for a plant-based version.
Mango: Fresh, ripe mango adds sweetness, but if you can’t find one, try peach or even canned mango (just drain it first). Frozen mango also works well in a pinch!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple has the best flavor here, but you can use canned pineapple if you’re short on time. If you’re not a fan of pineapple, diced peaches or apples can be tasty alternatives.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is fantastic for grilling. You can use avocado oil instead for a higher smoke point or coconut oil if you love a hint of sweetness.
Honey: Honey enhances the flavor, but if you’re looking for a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup works too!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating is key to making your chicken juicy and packed with flavor. Combine all your marinade ingredients well and let the chicken sit in it as long as possible—ideally, 2 hours. This allows the flavors to really soak in.
- Make sure to coat the chicken evenly in the marinade.
- Keep the chicken in the refrigerator while marinating to ensure freshness.
- When you’re ready to grill, shake off excess marinade to avoid flare-ups.
Don’t skip letting it rest after grilling! Resting for a few minutes helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken tender and flavorful. Enjoy your meal with the salsa for a refreshing finish!
How to Make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Optional:
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and marinating, plus around 15-20 minutes for grilling. If you let the chicken marinate for 2 hours, it’ll enhance the flavors even more. Overall, you can expect this delicious dish to take about 30-40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, add the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. This creates a tasty marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in the marinade, making sure they’re well coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for 2 hours. This will make your chicken super flavorful!
3. Preheat and Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, take the chicken out of the marinade (discard the leftover marinade) and place the chicken on the grill. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) so you know it’s fully cooked.
4. Make the Mango Pineapple Salsa:
While the chicken is grilling, you’ll want to whip up the refreshing salsa. In a bowl, mix together the diced mango, fresh pineapple, chopped red bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro. Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the top and give it a gentle stir. Set it aside to let the flavors mingle!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through, take it off the grill and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! After resting, slice the chicken and place it on plates. Top it with the vibrant mango-pineapple salsa, and if you’d like, garnish with more fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing!
Enjoy your delicious grilled mango pineapple chicken!
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar in equal amounts. Both will add sweetness and complement the other flavors in the marinade.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them first! Ideally, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight for the best texture. If you’re short on time, you can thaw them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water, but avoid cooking from frozen to ensure even cooking.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover 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 water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make the Salsa Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mango-pineapple salsa a few hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This will allow the flavors to meld nicely, but try to eat it within 24 hours for the freshest taste.
