This Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a sweet and zesty dish that’s sure to brighten your day! The juicy chicken is grilled to perfection and topped with tropical mango and pineapple, making each bite a treat.
I love how the fruity toppings give a fun twist to regular chicken. Serve it with rice and pretend you’re on a beach vacation—even if you’re just in your backyard! 🌴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are best for this recipe, as they cook faster and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs, which are slightly fattier and more flavorful.
Mango: Fresh ripe mangoes give a tropical sweetness to the dish. If mangoes aren’t in season, consider using peaches or nectarines as a substitute. They’ll add a similar flavor profile!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is ideal, but canned works fine too. Just make sure to drain it well. You could also use grilled peaches or pears for a fun twist!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley or even basil can work as a good substitute while providing a different taste.
Honey: Honey contributes sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you want less sweetness, you can try agave syrup or maple syrup. For a vegan option, use a fruit puree or a sugar substitute.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but these tips will help you get juicy results. It’s important to start with marinating your chicken to add flavor and moisture.
- Marinate well: Aim for at least 1 hour, but overnight gives the best flavor.
- Preheat the grill: Make sure your grill is hot (medium-high heat) before placing the chicken on it.
- Don’t crowd the grill: Give each piece some space for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s fully cooked but still juicy.
- Rest the chicken: Let it rest for a few minutes after grilling so that the juices can redistribute. This is key for tenderness!
How to Make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Grilling:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 15 minutes for preparation plus at least 1 hour for marinating. The grilling will take an additional 15 minutes. So, allow about 1 hour 30 minutes total to enjoy this flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well until it looks smooth. This is your delicious marinade that will give the chicken amazing flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. If using a bag, seal it tightly. Pop it in the fridge and let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor. The longer, the better!
3. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures everything will cook evenly. While the grill heats up, take the chicken out of the fridge and let it sit for a few minutes.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Throw away the leftover marinade to keep everything safe. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked. You can check if they’re done by making sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Add the Fruit:
As the chicken is grilling, toss the pineapple chunks and diced mango on the grill for the last few minutes. They’ll caramelize nicely and get beautiful grill marks, adding sweetness to your dish!
6. Finish and Serve:
Once the chicken and fruit are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices stay inside! Slice the chicken and arrange it on a serving platter. Top it with the grilled mango, pineapple, chopped red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro for a colorful touch.
7. Enjoy!
Serve warm with a side of grilled vegetables or rice if you like. This dish is not just visually appealing but also bursting with flavor! Enjoy your delicious grilled mango pineapple chicken!
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While mango and pineapple are delicious, you can also use peaches, cherries, or even sliced oranges for a tropical twist. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time to prevent the fruits from becoming too mushy.
What If I Don’t Have Soy Sauce?
If you’re out of soy sauce or want a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with tamari or a mixture of balsamic vinegar and water (1 part balsamic to 2 parts water). This will give your marinade a slightly different flavor, but still delicious!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help keep it moist!
Can I Cook This Dish Indoors?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or broiler in your oven. Just make sure to preheat the pan and cook the chicken over medium-high heat, adjusting the cooking time as necessary, until it reaches the internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
