This Whiskey Pineapple Chicken is a fun twist on your usual chicken! The sweet pineapple and zesty whiskey sauce make each bite burst with flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
I love how the tangy sweetness from the pineapple pairs perfectly with the chicken. It’s my go-to recipe when I want to impress friends without spending the whole day cooking. 🍍🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for even cooking. If you’d like a change, try chicken thighs; they’re juicier and offer more flavor. For a vegetarian option, you can use tofu or tempeh, marinating them the same way.
Whiskey: The whiskey adds a unique depth. If you’re avoiding alcohol, use extra pineapple juice or apple cider vinegar for a tangy flavor. Beer can also work for a different taste.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh juice is best, but canned or bottled works too. For a fun twist, try orange juice or coconut water if you’re in a pinch.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, but reduce the liquid slightly to keep the balance.
Fresh Ginger: Fresh ginger gives a zingy flavor. If you don’t have any, use ground ginger, but use less since it’s more concentrated. A pinch will do!
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is crucial for making the chicken flavorful and tender. To get the best results, follow these steps:
- Ensure the marinade covers the chicken completely. Use a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish for even marination.
- Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight brings out the best flavors. If you’re crunched for time, even 30 minutes will help.
- Always discard the marinade afterward to avoid contamination. Never reuse it for dipping, as it’s been in contact with raw chicken.
Taking a little more time to marinate can make a big difference, so plan ahead if you can! Happy grilling!
How to Make Whiskey Pineapple Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- ½ cup whiskey
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Cooking the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh pineapple slices (for grilling and garnish)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes total. You’ll need 15 minutes for prep and marinating the chicken, and then about 20-25 minutes for grilling. It’s a great dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the whiskey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you want a bit of spice). Whisk everything together until the mixture is nice and blended. This will give your chicken great flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better if you have time!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you are ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will help achieve a beautiful char on your chicken.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, take the chicken out of the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Brush each chicken breast lightly with olive oil to help prevent sticking. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You want it nicely charred!
5. Grill the Pineapple:
During the last few minutes of the chicken cooking, add pineapple slices to the grill. Cook them until they’re caramelized and have nice grill marks, about 2-3 minutes on each side. This adds a delicious touch!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is cooked, take the chicken and grilled pineapple off the grill. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it. To serve, top the grilled chicken with the caramelized pineapple slices and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Enjoy your delicious whiskey pineapple chicken!
Can I Use Another Type of Alcohol in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If whiskey isn’t your preference, you can substitute it with rum or bourbon for a slightly different flavor profile. Just ensure that the substitute complements the sweetness of the pineapple juice.
What Can I Use Instead of Pineapple Juice?
If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can use orange juice or apple juice as a substitute. Both will add a sweet, fruity flavor that works well with the marinade. Adjust the sugar down slightly since orange juice can be sweeter than pineapple juice.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover whiskey pineapple chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or oven at a low temperature to ensure it remains juicy and doesn’t dry out.
Can I Grill Vegetables Alongside the Chicken?
Yes! Grilled vegetables pair wonderfully with this dish. You can grill bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Just add them to the grill at the same time as the chicken, adjusting the cooking time as necessary based on the vegetable type.
