This Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a tasty treat! It’s made with juicy chicken, sweet mango, and zesty pineapple, giving it a lovely tropical flavor that’s hard to resist.
Every bite makes me feel like I’m on a sunny beach! I love serving it with rice or a fresh salad for a refreshing meal. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 🌴🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts help keep this dish light. You can also use boneless thighs, which are juicier or opt for tofu for a vegetarian version.
Mango: Fresh, ripe mango adds sweetness. If unavailable, you can use frozen mango or substitute with peach. Just ensure it’s ripe for the best flavor.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is best for taste, but canned pineapple works too. Just rinse off some syrup before using it. You might also try using papaya for something different!
Pineapple Juice: Fresh juice is fantastic, but store-bought is perfectly fine. For a twist, use orange juice to enhance the fruitiness.
Soy Sauce: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is a great choice. You could also use coconut aminos for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is crucial for infusing flavor into the chicken. Start by mixing your marinade well and allowing sufficient time for the chicken to soak in those tastes.
- Use a resealable bag or shallow dish for marinating; this helps the chicken get coated evenly.
- Marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better! Just keep it in the fridge.
- Don’t reuse the marinade after chicken has been in it to avoid contamination.
These steps will ensure your chicken turns out flavorful and juicy! Enjoy your grilling experience!
How to Make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For The Marinade:
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
For The Sautéed Mixture:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: additional diced mango and pineapple for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes for preparation and about 15-20 minutes for cooking. You’ll need at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken, but longer is better! Overall, you can expect to enjoy this vibrant meal in about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, combine the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk them together until well mixed. This tasty marinade will give your chicken a wonderful flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, making sure they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate the chicken for at least 1 hour. If you have the time, letting it marinate overnight will enhance the flavors even more!
3. Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade and discard the marinade. Now, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is cooked through. You want a nice grilled color on the outside!
5. Sauté the Fruits and Vegetables:
While your chicken is grilling, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced mango, pineapple, and red bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and warmed through.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken if you’d like, and serve it topped with the sautéed mango, pineapple, and bell pepper mixture. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro and any additional diced fruits for a lovely presentation!
Enjoy your flavorful and colorful Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken before marinating! You can thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker option. Pat the chicken dry to ensure an even distribution of flavors from the marinade.
What If I Don’t Have Pineapple Juice?
No problem! You can substitute pineapple juice with orange juice or a combination of apple cider vinegar and water (1:1 ratio). This keeps the sweetness and acidity balance that works well in the marinade.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Sauté?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even snap peas. Just make sure to cook them until they’re tender, adjusting the cooking time as necessary. Mix and match based on your taste preferences!
