This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a sweet and tangy delight! The juicy chicken is marinated in honey, pineapple juice, and spices, making it super flavorful and easy to grill.
It’s a fun dish that brings summer vibes to any meal! I love serving it with rice or a fresh salad. It always gets smiles at the dinner table—perfect for family or friends! 🍍🍗
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Tenderloins: These are nice and tender, which is why I prefer them. If they’re hard to find, chicken breasts cut into strips work well too. Just be mindful of cooking time as they may take a few minutes longer.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and thickness. If you’re avoiding honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can do the trick, but adjust the quantity to taste since they taste different!
Pineapple Juice: This adds a tropical flavor. If you don’t have juice, you can use a mix of fresh crushed pineapple and a splash of water or canned juice if that’s what you have.
Soy Sauce: Any type will do, but low-sodium soy sauce is great if you want to cut back on salt. You can also use tamari for a gluten-free option!
Ground Ginger: Fresh ginger can replace ground ginger if you have it. Use about a tablespoon of fresh ginger, minced – it gives a vibrant flavor!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Grilled Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but following a few steps can help you succeed! First, make sure to marinate your chicken for a good 2 hours or overnight. This not only flavors the meat but also helps keep it moist.
- Preheat your grill properly—medium-high heat is key for that nice sear.
- Don’t crowd the grill! Space is important for even cooking. Place chicken and pineapple slices separate.
- Cook on each side for 4-6 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let your chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This keeps it juicy when sliced!
How to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken breast tenderloins
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Grilling (Optional):
- Fresh pineapple slices
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 2 hours for marinating in the fridge. After marinating, grilling will take about 10-15 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can marinate for a shorter time, but for the best flavor, let it sit overnight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and salt until everything is well combined. This sweet and tangy marinade is what makes the chicken so flavorful!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Put the chicken tenderloins in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all the pieces are covered. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the fridge. Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for even better flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets lovely grill marks.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 4-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Grill the Pineapple (Optional):
If you’re using fresh pineapple slices, place them on the grill after the chicken. Grill the slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until you see nice grill marks. This adds a delicious, caramelized flavor!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled, take the chicken and pineapple off the grill. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into pieces. Serve the grilled chicken with the grilled pineapple slices on the side. If you like, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top as a garnish. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a juicier flavor to the dish, and you can use the same cooking time as the tenderloins. Just make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
What if I Don’t Have Pineapple Juice?
No worries! You can substitute pineapple juice with orange juice or a mix of apple juice with a splash of vinegar for a tangy twist. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat on the stove over low heat.
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for an even bolder flavor. However, marinating for too long can cause the chicken to become mushy, so aim for that timeframe for the best results!
