Description
This Grilled Aloha Chicken and Pineapple recipe combines tender, marinated chicken breasts with sweet and tangy grilled pineapple for a tropical-inspired meal that’s perfect for summer cookouts and gatherings. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, honey, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger, then grilled alongside honey-lime glazed pineapple for a delightful sweet and savory balance.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade Ingredients
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings or chunks
Pineapple Glaze
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
To Garnish and Serve
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, pineapple juice, olive oil, minced garlic, minced fresh ginger, sesame seeds if using, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to enhance flavor.
- Prepare the Pineapple: In a small bowl, combine honey, lime juice, and ground cinnamon if using. Brush this mixture over the pineapple rings or chunks evenly to create a sweet glaze.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, allowing it to reach an optimal temperature for grilling the chicken and pineapple.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Grill the Pineapple: Place the glazed pineapple pieces on the grill as well. Grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the pineapple becomes caramelized and tender.
- Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken and pineapple to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley and lime wedges. Serve alongside rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight intensifies the flavor, but 1 hour is sufficient for a good taste.
- Use fresh pineapple for the best grilling results and natural sweetness.
- Optional ingredients like sesame seeds and cinnamon add extra flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- Ensure the grill is properly heat-adjusted to avoid burning the pineapple or undercooking the chicken.
- Check chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer for food safety.
