This Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a burst of sweet and tangy goodness. The juicy chicken is marinated with fresh mango and pineapple, making every bite taste like summer!
I love how easy it is to pop this on the grill for a quick dinner. Plus, the fruity flavors always impress guests. Who doesn’t love a tasty tropical twist? 🍍🐔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for grilling. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with turkey breasts or even firm tofu for a plant-based option.
Mango: A ripe mango adds sweetness and flavor. If mangos aren’t available, try using peach or nectarine, as they offer similar sweetness when diced.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple brings acidity and freshness. Canned pineapple can work in a pinch, but remember to drain it well to avoid extra moisture.
Olive Oil: This is used for marinating and grilling. If you prefer, you can substitute avocado oil or grapeseed oil, which also have high smoke points perfect for grilling.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce is great, but if you need a gluten-free option, go for tamari. Coconut aminos are another excellent substitute for a milder flavor.
Honey: Honey adds a sweet balance to the marinade. Maple syrup or agave syrup are good alternatives if you’re looking for a vegan option.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few key tips, you can get juicy, flavorful results! First, make sure to marinate the chicken well. This not only adds flavor but helps keep the chicken moist.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill will sear the chicken, creating beautiful grill marks.
- Make sure to discard the marinade after use to avoid contamination.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken more tender when you slice it.
How to Make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For Grilling:
- 2 cups bell peppers (yellow and green), sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. In total, you’re looking at approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy your delicious Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by mixing olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This mixture will give your chicken great flavor! Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and make sure each piece is well coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, aim for 2 hours for even more flavor.
2. Prepare the Salsa:
While your chicken is marinating, grab another bowl. Combine the diced mango, fresh pineapple, chopped red bell pepper, and cilantro. Gently mix everything together and set it aside. This fruity salsa will be a wonderful topping for your chicken!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. A good grill should be hot enough to sear the chicken nicely.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Discard the marinade (it’s best not to reuse it). Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You’ll want to see nice grill marks when you flip it!
5. Grill the Bell Peppers:
While the chicken is cooking, toss the sliced yellow and green bell peppers onto the grill. Grill them for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re tender and slightly charred. This will add a lovely flavor and texture to your meal.
6. Assemble the Dish:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Slice the chicken and arrange it on a serving platter. Top it with the delicious mango pineapple salsa you prepared earlier, and serve the grilled bell peppers on the side.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some extra cilantro on top of the dish and serve with lime wedges. Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken and impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Other Proteins Besides Chicken?
Absolutely! This marinade works great with pork chops or shrimp as well. If using shrimp, just marinate for 15-20 minutes and grill for about 2-3 minutes per side. For pork, marinate similarly to chicken and grill until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Mango or Pineapple?
No problem! You can use canned mango and pineapple; just drain them well before adding to the salsa. Alternatively, frozen fruit works too—just thaw and drain excess moisture before mixing.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead, keeping it covered in the refrigerator. For the salsa, it’s best to prepare it shortly before serving to keep the fruits fresh and vibrant, but it can be made up to a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave or a skillet on low until warmed through. Enjoy the salsa cold to maintain its fresh flavor!
