***
There’s something magical about summer nights spent around the grill. The smoky aroma mingles with the sweetness of fruit, creating a delightful symphony for the senses. I remember the first time I made Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken; the flavors burst in my mouth and transported me to a tropical paradise. This recipe is close to my heart because it’s not just food; it’s about bringing friends and family together for laughter, stories, and delicious bites. The juicy chicken, paired with caramelized mango and pineapple, creates a unique dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. What makes it special is the vibrant combination of flavors and the joy it brings to any gathering.
Why make this recipe
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a fantastic choice for many reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend BBQs. The marinade infuses the chicken with delicious flavors, while the grilled fruits add a sweet, smoky touch. Plus, it’s a healthy option that includes lean protein and fresh fruit, allowing you to indulge guilt-free. If you’re looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy a tasty meal at home, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
How to make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe mangoes, diced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- Juice of 2 limes
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Add chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- While marinating, slice mangoes and pineapples into thick chunks.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates.
- Grill marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
- Add mango and pineapple chunks to the grill during the last few minutes until charred.
- Remove from grill and let rest briefly before serving with grilled fruit on top.
How to serve Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Serve your Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken on a big platter, garnished with fresh cilantro. Pair it with a light salad or some rice to soak up the delicious flavors. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice for an extra zesty kick. This dish not only looks inviting, but it also tastes fantastic with each bite of juicy chicken and sweet fruit.
How to store Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The chicken will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate the chicken from the fruit if you are freezing, as the fruit may become mushy when thawed.
Tips to make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, let it sit longer for deeper flavor.
- Choose ripe mangoes and pineapples for the best sweetness.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a skillet and sauté the fruits separately.
- Watch the grilling time closely to avoid overcooking the chicken.
Variation
You can switch up the fruit based on what’s in season. Try adding peaches, plums, or even bell peppers for a different taste. A sprinkle of chili powder in the marinade can also add a fun kick!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and will be juicy and flavorful! Just adjust the cooking time as they might take a bit longer.
What can I serve with this dish?
Great sides include rice, quinoa, a fresh green salad, or grilled vegetables.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day before and grill it when you’re ready to eat. This will save you time and make cooking easier!
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 units limes (juiced)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- to taste salt and pepper
For the Chicken and Fruits
- 3-4 units boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 units ripe mangoes, diced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- fresh cilantro for garnish
Method
Preparation
- In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Add chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- While marinating, slice mangoes and pineapples into thick chunks.
Cooking
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates.
- Grill marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
- Add mango and pineapple chunks to the grill during the last few minutes until charred.
- Remove from grill and let rest briefly before serving with grilled fruit on top.