This grilled mango pineapple chicken is a sunny burst of flavor! The sweet mango and zesty pineapple make every bite feel like a summer party on your plate.
You won’t believe how easy it is to make! I just toss the chicken with fruit, grill it up, and voilà—dinner is ready. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you prefer a different protein, you can use boneless thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Mango: A ripe mango adds sweetness and contributes to the dish’s tropical vibe. If mango isn’t available, you can use peaches or nectarines for a similar flavor.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is great, but canned pineapple works too. Just make sure to drain it well. For a twist, try using grilled peaches or even apples!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a nice herby flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good alternative. Some people also enjoy using mint for a fresh twist.
Honey: While honey adds sweetness, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a vegan alternative. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. If you’re in a pinch, lemon juice can substitute, though it’s a bit less sweet.
How Can You Perfectly Grill Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few key steps, you can achieve juicy, flavorful results. The first importance is marinating, which helps infuse lots of taste into the chicken.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to soak in. Longer is better if you have the time.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, which is essential for nice grill marks and cooking through without drying out.
- Keep an eye on the chicken as it grills; cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This keeps it juicy!
How to Make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional: lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and at least 30 minutes for marinating. Grilling will take around 15 minutes, so you’re looking at a total of about 1 hour to enjoy your Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mango-Pineapple Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, pineapple chunks, chopped red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro. Mix everything well and set it aside to marinate for a bit. This will help the flavors blend together beautifully.
2. Make the Marinade:
In another bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This marinade will give the chicken a fantastic flavor!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours if you want a stronger flavor.
4. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly grease the grill grates. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and place it on the grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked (make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C).
5. Warm the Salsa (Optional):
While the chicken is grilling, you can warm the mango-pineapple salsa in a small saucepan over medium heat if desired. This step is optional but can add a nice touch!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill. Top with the mango-pineapple salsa and garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges if you like. Serve and enjoy your flavorful meal!
Can I Use Another Type of Fruit for the Salsa?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a substitute, try using diced peaches, kiwi, or even strawberries for a twist. Just make sure to keep the proportions similar to maintain a good balance of flavors.
What Can I Substitute for Honey in the Marinade?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a sweet substitute for honey. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, consider stevia or erythritol, but note that you may need to adjust the amount to taste, as these can be sweeter than honey.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it up on the grill again to maintain the texture. You can also slice it and add it to salads or wraps!
Can I Grill the Chicken Indoors?
Yes! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop. Just make sure to preheat the pan and lightly grease it. Cook the chicken over medium-high heat like you would on an outdoor grill, keeping an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
