Grilled Pineapple Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken infused with pineapple and garlic Dijon flavors, perfect for summer barbecues and those craving a sweet-savory tropical twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat grill or broiler.
- In a shallow pan, combine garlic Dijon flavor with pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
- Place chicken in this mixture; pierce deeply with a fork and marinate for 15 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Remove chicken from marinade and grill or broil for about 5 minutes per side or until thoroughly cooked.
- Baste occasionally with remaining marinade.
- Serve with sliced orange.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate longer, up to 2 hours. If you don't have garlic Dijon, you can use regular Dijon mustard mixed with minced garlic. Fresh pineapple can be grilled alongside the chicken for added sweetness. To enhance the dish, consider adding a sprinkle of chili flakes for a hint of spice.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the grilled chicken and serve it over a bed of rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with sliced oranges for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it with a side of Broccoli, Rice And Cheese for a comforting touch, or a simple green salad for a lighter option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be cautious not to overcook it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Pineapple Chicken contains roughly 297 calories, with 16g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value) and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2260mg per serving (98% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of boneless breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as darker meat may take a bit longer to cook thoroughly. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for pineapple juice?
If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can use orange juice or a mixture of apple juice and a splash of vinegar for a similar sweet-tart flavor. Keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly, but it will still complement the dish well.
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The best way to check if your chicken is done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F. Alternatively, you can cut into the chicken; it should be opaque and juices should run clear.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).