This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a tasty treat that’s both sweet and savory! Juicy chicken is marinated in a mix of honey and pineapple juice, making every bite so flavorful.
I absolutely love how the grill gives it a nice smoky touch. It’s perfect for summer cookouts, and I can’t resist grabbing a second piece—who can say no to that combo? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but chicken thighs can also add more flavor and moisture. If you prefer a faster option, chicken tenderloins work well too!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar alternative, consider using agave syrup or maple syrup instead. They work nicely in marinades!
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. You can also look for low-sodium varieties to keep the salt content healthier.
Pineapple Juice: If fresh pineapple juice isn’t available, canned juice works just fine. Just ensure it’s 100% juice without added sugars. Alternatively, you could blend fresh pineapple into a juice for a vibrant flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is preferred for its flavor. However, garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Remember, 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder is about equal to one clove of fresh garlic.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Juicy and Fully Cooked?
Ensuring your chicken is juicy yet fully cooked can be challenging. Marinating the chicken not only enhances flavor but helps keep it moist. For best results, follow these steps:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to really soak in.
- Preheat your grill before placing the chicken on it. A hot grill will help lock in juices right away.
- Don’t flip the chicken too often! Let it cook on one side for 5-7 minutes before turning it. This helps create a nice sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken has reached 165°F. This is the safest way to ensure it’s cooked properly.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps retain its juices when you slice it.
How to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 ½ pounds chicken breasts (or chicken tenderloins)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Grilling:
- Fresh pineapple slices for grilling (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish requires about 10 minutes for preparation, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (preferably overnight for great flavor). Grill time is around 10-15 minutes, so you’re looking at a total of about 1 hour and 25 minutes, depending on how long you let it marinate. Worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, pineapple juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and salt. This will create a sweet and tangy marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the delicious marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well covered. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and then pop it in the refrigerator. Let it sit for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, let it marinate overnight!
3. Preheat and Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade. If you’d like, you can put fresh pineapple slices on the grill alongside the chicken. Grill the pineapple for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they have nice grill marks and start to caramelize.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly juicy chicken!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. After resting, slice the chicken and serve it hot, garnished with delicious chopped green onions and alongside the grilled pineapple slices if you used them. Enjoy your fantastic meal!
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be aware that bone-in chicken may require a longer cooking time. Aim for about 10-12 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through.
What Can I Use Instead of Soy Sauce?
If you need a soy sauce substitute, try tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. Both will offer a similar savory flavor to your marinade!
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store your leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Use Other Fruits in the Marinade?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other fruit juices like orange or mango for a twist. Just make sure they complement the flavors; a bit of citrus can really brighten up the marinade!
