This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a sweet and tangy delight! Juicy chicken meets a flavorful marinate of honey and pineapple for a tasty meal you’ll love.
Nothing beats the smell of chicken sizzling on the grill! I always serve it with rice or a fresh salad—it’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
I love how this dish brings summer vibes, even in chilly weather. Just marinate, grill, and enjoy a deliciously sweet treat that’s perfect for family dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast Tenderloins: These are great for grilling because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you can’t find tenderloins, you can use regular chicken breasts, just cut them into thinner pieces for even cooking.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and depth to the dish. In a pinch, you could substitute with agave syrup or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change. I prefer using raw honey for a stronger taste!
Pineapple Juice: This brings a fresh, tangy flavor. If you’re out, orange juice is a good substitute. You can even blend fresh pineapple for an extra fruity kick, which is always a hit!
Soy Sauce: This adds a savory note. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. You can also try coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Garlic and Ginger Powder: Both add amazing flavor. If you have fresh garlic and ginger, you can use those instead! Just use about one clove of garlic and a teaspoon of fresh ginger.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can get it right every time!
- Marinate: Letting the chicken soak in the marinade for longer enhances the flavor. Overnight is best, but even 1 hour works if you’re short on time.
- Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. Medium-high heat is perfect for good grill marks.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give each piece some space on the grill. This helps them cook evenly and get those nice char marks.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This keeps it safe to eat and juicy!
- Let it Rest: After grilling, let your chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making it more tender.
How to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken breast tenderloins
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ginger powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Optional:
- Fresh pineapple slices for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, plus a marinating time of at least 1 hour (or up to overnight), and around 15-20 minutes for grilling. So, if you’re planning ahead, it’s a great dish to marinate overnight for extra flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, black pepper, and salt. This will create a sweet and tangy marinade that will make your chicken super flavorful!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken breast tenderloins to the marinade, making sure they are well coated in all that deliciousness. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, letting it sit overnight will make it even tastier!
3. Prep the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you want to grill fresh pineapple slices, you can lightly brush them with olive oil and set them aside for later.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Let any excess marinade drip off (don’t worry, you can discard the used marinade). Place the chicken tenderloins on the hot grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken has nice grill marks and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Grill the Pineapple (Optional):
If you’re using fresh pineapple slices, add them to the grill during the last few minutes of cooking. Turn them occasionally until they become beautifully caramelized and have grill marks.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken and pineapple slices are done, remove them from the grill. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. Serve the grilled chicken with the grilled pineapple on the side, and drizzle some extra honey over the top if you fancy. Enjoy your delicious Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breast Tenderloins?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken thighs for breast tenderloins if you prefer dark meat or want a slightly richer flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a few more minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Pineapple Juice?
No worries! If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can use another fruit juice like orange or apple juice for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, you could blend fresh pineapple chunks and strain them to create your own juice substitute.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the grilled chicken for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer Than Overnight?
It’s best to stick to marinating for up to 24 hours. Marinating too long can sometimes lead to a mushy texture due to the acidity in the pineapple juice. If you’ll be marinating for more than a few hours, keep it at a cool temperature in the fridge to ensure food safety.
