This Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a bright and tasty dish! Juicy chicken is marinated with sweet mango and pineapple juices, giving it a tropical twist that’s perfect for summer.
Cooking it on the grill adds a nice char, making every bite extra special. I love serving it with rice or a big salad, and I might add a sprinkle of lime juice to bring out the flavors!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs—they’ll stay juicier! Alternatively, tofu can be used for a vegetarian twist.
Mango: A ripe mango adds sweetness and flavor. If you can’t find a ripe mango, use a package of frozen mango chunks or fresh peaches for a similar taste.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives the juiciest flavor, but canned pineapple chunks work too. Just make sure to drain them well if you use canned. If you’re avoiding pineapple, try swapping in peach or pear chunks.
Soy Sauce: This adds savory depth. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. Low-sodium soy sauce is also a good choice if you’re watching your salt intake.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. Agave syrup is a good substitute if you need a vegan option.
How Do You Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with some simple tips, you can make it juicy and flavorful. Here are the key steps:
- Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it. This helps sear the outside.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and a light brush of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes on one side without flipping too soon. This helps develop nice grill marks.
- When you flip the chicken, spoon some of the mango-pineapple mixture on top. This will infuse flavor while it finishes cooking.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer, aiming for 165°F (74°C), especially at the thickest point.
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling keeps it juicy. Enjoy!
How to Make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil, for grilling
For the Mango-Pineapple Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for spice)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook on the grill. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious grilled chicken meal with a tropical twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mango-Pineapple Salsa:
In a medium bowl, mix together the diced mango, pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, grated ginger, and chili flakes (if using). Stir everything well and let it sit to marinate while you prepare the chicken.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt and pepper to add flavor. Next, brush each piece lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and to help with grilling.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the chicken breasts on the grill. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on one side, then flip them over and continue grilling for another 6-7 minutes. Cook until the chicken is fully done and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Add the Salsa and Finish:
In the last few minutes of grilling, spoon some of the mango-pineapple mixture over the chicken. Close the grill lid to heat the salsa through. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it sit for a few minutes so the juices settle.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious grilled chicken topped with the remaining mango-pineapple salsa and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. It pairs perfectly with grilled vegetables or rice. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Mango and Pineapple?
Absolutely! You can substitute mango and pineapple with other tropical fruits like kiwi or papaya. Just make sure to keep similar texture and sweetness in mind. For a different flavor, try using peaches or nectarines in season!
How to Marinate the Chicken for Better Flavor?
For even more flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the mango-pineapple mixture for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken, making it extra delicious!
Can I Cook This Chicken in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Add the mango-pineapple mixture during the last 5 minutes of baking to warm it up!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. You can also enjoy it cold in salads or wraps!
