This Whiskey Pineapple Chicken is a fun twist on dinner! The sweet pineapple pairs perfectly with the smoky whiskey flavor, making every bite super tasty.
I love how easy it is to make this dish! Just marinate the chicken, pan-sear it, and voilà—dinner is ready! Great served with rice or veggies, too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use thighs for extra juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
Whiskey: Bourbon adds sweetness and depth. If you’re not a whiskey fan, try using apple cider vinegar or even a splash of rum for a different twist.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh juice is best, but canned works too. Consider swapping it with orange juice for a citrusy flavor, or blend fresh mango for a tropical vibe!
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. You can substitute it with tamari for a gluten-free version or coconut aminos for a sweeter taste.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives a nice caramel flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use honey or maple syrup instead.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can get it just right! Here’s how to ensure your chicken is juicy and flavorful:
- Marinating: Let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor. This helps tenderize the meat.
- Grill Preheating: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high before adding the chicken. This ensures a good sear and beautiful grill marks.
- Timing: Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes. Always check the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (75°C).
- Resting: After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to settle. This makes it juicier when you slice it!
Whiskey Pineapple Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup whiskey (such as bourbon)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Grilling:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh pineapple slices (for grilling, optional)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparing the marinade and chicken, plus 2 hours (or overnight) for marinating. Grilling will take around 15 minutes. In total, you’ll be looking at about 2 hours and 30 minutes, but much of that time is just letting the chicken soak up the delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, combine the whiskey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the sugar is dissolved. Then, place the chicken breasts into a zip-top bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and put it in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for even more flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using charcoal, let the coals heat up until they’re covered with gray ash. This ensures your chicken gets nice grill marks and cooks evenly!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade (discard any leftover marinade) and place the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on one side, then flip them and continue grilling for another 6-7 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you want to add fresh pineapple slices to the grill, now is the time—just a few minutes before the chicken is done cooking.
4. Rest the Chicken:
Once your chicken is grilled to perfection, remove it from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in for a moist and tender bite.
5. Serve:
Slice the grilled whiskey pineapple chicken and serve it hot! If you grilled pineapple slices, add them to the plate as well. Garnish with some chopped green onions if you like. Enjoy every bite of your flavorful dish!
Can I Use a Different Type of Alcohol in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use whiskey, you can substitute with rum or vodka for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary, so choose one that complements pineapple well.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
A minimum of 2 hours is needed for a good flavor, but marinating overnight results in a more intense taste. If you’re short on time, even a quick 30-minute marinade can still add some flavor!
Can I Cook This Chicken in the Oven Instead of on the Grill?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can broil for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end for a nice caramelization!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or a skillet over low heat. You can also add a splash of pineapple juice to keep the chicken moist.
