Homemade Grilled Pineapple Chicken

This Homemade Grilled Pineapple Chicken is the perfect dish for summer gatherings! Bursting with tropical flavors from the pineapple marinade, it’s a crowd-pleaser that suits barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion where delicious food is needed. The combination of juicy chicken and sweet grilled pineapple makes this recipe stand out, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish requires minimal effort with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Flavorful Marinade: The pineapple marinade infuses the chicken with a sweet and tangy taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, greens, or as part of a wholesome summer platter.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh produce, this recipe fits well into various dietary plans.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time and grill when ready for an easy weeknight dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your homemade grilled pineapple chicken is simple when you have the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious recipe to life.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Blender or food processor
• Shallow bowl or dish
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill provides even heat for cooking your chicken and pineapple perfectly.
• Blender or Food Processor: These tools make blending the marinade quick and easy, ensuring a smooth consistency.
• Shallow Bowl or Dish: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly while allowing maximum flavor absorption.

Ingredients

This recipe for homemade grilled pineapple chicken thighs is a summer staple! With a simple pineapple marinade, this easy grilled chicken is a crowd pleaser.

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs (or breasts)

For the Marinade

• 1 fresh pineapple, skin removed and cut into rounds with the core removed
• 1/2 cup coconut aminos
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice (or sub water if you don’t have any)
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 4-6 pitted dates, soaked for 10-15 minutes in warm water to soften then drained
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

For Serving

• White or cauli rice (Cauli rice for Whole30)
• Mixed greens
• Chopped green onions (for topping)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Homemade Grilled Pineapple Chicken

Step 1: Soak Dates

Soak the dates in warm water as noted to soften them before adding to your marinade.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

To create the marinade:
1. Place all ingredients in a blender or food processor.
2. Blend continuously until all ingredients are smooth. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides if necessary.

Step 3: Marinate Chicken

Place the chicken in a shallow bowl or dish.
1. Pour the marinade over it.
2. Toss to ensure even coating.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.

Step 4: Prepare Pineapple

When ready to grill:
1. Cut the fresh pineapple into rounds if not already done.
2. Remove the tough inner core from each round.

Step 5: Grill Chicken and Pineapple

1. Preheat your grill to high heat (about 500° F).
2. Add both chicken and pineapple to the grill.
3. Cook while flipping once; baste chicken with any remaining marinade until cooked through—about 5-6 minutes on each side depending on size.
4. Remove pineapple once grilled to your liking (usually around 3-4 minutes per side).

Step 6: Serve

Serve your grilled chicken and pineapple over your choice of rice or greens, topped with chopped green onions for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve Homemade Grilled Pineapple Chicken

Serving homemade grilled pineapple chicken is all about complementing its sweet and savory flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its tropical vibe.

On a Bed of Rice

• White or Cauliflower Rice: Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice for a classic taste, or opt for cauliflower rice for a healthier, low-carb option.

With Mixed Greens

• Fresh Mixed Greens: Create a vibrant salad with mixed greens, adding a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chicken.

Topped with Green Onions

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh chopped green onions on top for an added crunch and a pop of color.

In Tacos

• Tropical Chicken Tacos: Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in corn tortillas with avocado and salsa for a fun twist.

As Meal Prep

• Meal Prep Containers: Portion out the chicken with sides into meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

For a Family Feast

• Family-Style Platter: Arrange sliced chicken and grilled pineapple on a large platter for sharing at gatherings or barbecues.

How to Perfect Homemade Grilled Pineapple Chicken

Perfecting your homemade grilled pineapple chicken requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to achieve the best results every time.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing chicken to marinate for 24 hours intensifies its flavor, making it even more delicious.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pineapple and high-quality chicken will elevate the dish’s taste significantly.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot enough before cooking. This ensures nice grill marks and helps seal in juices.
• Check Doneness with Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
• Baste While Grilling: Basting the chicken with leftover marinade during grilling adds extra flavor and moisture.
• Let It Rest: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing, which helps retain its juices.

Best Side Dishes for Homemade Grilled Pineapple Chicken

Pairing sides with your homemade grilled pineapple chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and feta adds texture and nutrition.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness while offering a satisfying crunch.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with lime butter is perfect for summer barbecues alongside this dish.
6. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up any leftover marinade on your plate—deliciously indulgent!
7. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring mangoes or berries enhances the tropical feel of this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making homemade grilled pineapple chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the final dish.

• Skipping the marinade time: Not allowing enough time for the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better for maximum taste.
• Not using fresh pineapple: Using canned or frozen pineapple can result in a less vibrant flavor. Always opt for fresh pineapple for the best results.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Ignoring grill temperature: Grilling on low heat may prevent proper caramelization and texture. Preheat your grill to high heat (about 500°F) before adding the chicken and pineapple.
• Cutting chicken unevenly: Uneven pieces cook at different rates, leading to some parts being overcooked while others are undercooked. Ensure your chicken thighs are of similar size for even cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Homemade grilled pineapple chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before refrigerating.

Freezing Homemade Grilled Pineapple Chicken

• Portion out the chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Label containers with dates to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Homemade Grilled Pineapple Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, cover, and heat until warm, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is homemade grilled pineapple chicken?

Homemade grilled pineapple chicken is a delicious dish made by marinating chicken in a flavorful mix that includes fresh pineapple juice and spices, then grilling it alongside pineapple slices.

Can I use different cuts of chicken?

Yes! While this recipe calls for boneless chicken thighs, you can also use breasts or drumsticks depending on your preference.

How do I customize my homemade grilled pineapple chicken?

Feel free to add different spices or herbs to your marinade, such as ginger or cilantro, for added flavor. You can also serve it with various sides like quinoa or roasted vegetables.

Is homemade grilled pineapple chicken healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe is packed with protein and uses wholesome ingredients like fresh fruit and spices, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. This helps enhance the flavors even more!

Final Thoughts

Homemade grilled pineapple chicken is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavors that make it perfect for any gathering or family dinner. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences and dietary needs, making it an ideal recipe year-round. Give this dish a try; you’ll love how simple yet delightful it is!

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Homemade Grilled Pineapple Chicken

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 42 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Dive into summer with this irresistible Homemade Grilled Pineapple Chicken! This dish combines tender chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce, delivering a burst of tropical flavors that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for barbecues or family dinners, the juicy chicken paired with caramelized grilled pineapple creates an unforgettable meal. It’s easy to prepare, healthy, and versatile—ideal for serving over rice, greens, or in tacos. Elevate your next gathering with this flavorful recipe that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 fresh pineapple, cut into rounds
• 1/2 cup coconut aminos
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 4–6 pitted dates (soaked)
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

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Instructions

1. Soak the dates in warm water for 10-15 minutes.
2. In a blender, combine pineapple rounds, coconut aminos, pineapple juice, tomato paste, soaked dates, garlic powder, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Blend until smooth.
3. Place chicken in a shallow dish and pour marinade over it. Toss to coat evenly; cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 24 hours).
4. Preheat grill to high heat (500°F). Remove chicken from marinade and grill alongside pineapple slices until cooked through (about 5-6 minutes per side for chicken; 3-4 minutes per side for pineapple).
5. Serve over rice or greens; garnish with chopped green onions.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with pineapple (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 410mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 110mg