Polynesian Grilled Chicken
Sweet and savory Polynesian grilled chicken features pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ham, topped with melted Muenster cheese. Perfect for summer barbecues and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix olive oil, pineapple juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, and pepper together in a bowl.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken breasts for approximately 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Five minutes before removing the chicken from the grill, place a slice of ham and a slice of Muenster cheese on top of each chicken breast.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor. If you're out of pineapple juice, orange juice is a great substitute that still complements the dish. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat. Keep an eye on the grill to prevent burning; consider using indirect heat for even cooking. Serve with a side of Cheryl’S Cabbage Salad for a refreshing crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Polynesian Grilled Chicken with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Hawaiian Chicken(Do Ahead) for a tropical meal. Consider adding rice or quinoa for a hearty option. Drizzle with extra marinade for added flavor and garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the grill for a few minutes to maintain its smoky flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Polynesian Grilled Chicken contains roughly 473 calories, with 16g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1210mg per serving (53% 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 cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute Muenster cheese with other melting cheeses like Swiss, Gouda, or Monterey Jack. Each will add a unique flavor to the dish while still providing that creamy texture you want when melting on the chicken.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Polynesian Grilled Chicken gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which are both gluten-free alternatives. Ensure that any additional ingredients, like pre-marinated ham, are also gluten-free.
Can I grill the chicken without marinating it first?
While marinating enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken, you can grill it without marinating. Just be sure to season it well with salt and pepper before grilling to ensure it has a good flavor. However, it won't have the same depth of taste as marinated chicken.
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).