This Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a fun and tasty dish! Juicy chicken meets sweet mango and tangy pineapple for a flavor explosion. Perfect for a sunny day!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that makes you feel like you’re on a tropical vacation? I love to serve it with rice or salad, and my family always asks for seconds! 🌴🍍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling as they cook evenly. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier bite or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Mango: Fresh, ripe mango adds sweetness. If mango isn’t available, try using diced peaches or nectarines—they’ll add a nice fruity twist, too!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is best for a juicy salsa. Canned pineapple can work in a pinch, but make sure to drain it well to avoid extra liquid in your salsa.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley makes a nice substitute, or you can skip it altogether!
Bell Peppers: Yellow bell peppers add sweetness and color. If you only have green peppers, those will work too; just note they have a bolder taste!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is crucial for adding flavor and tenderness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic powder, ground ginger, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add your chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. This helps lock in moisture while cooking.
- Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it will become!
When grilling, make sure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and juiciness. Let it rest for a few minutes after grilling before serving to keep all those delicious juices inside!
How to Make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Fruit Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For Grilling:
- 2 cups yellow bell peppers, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 15 minutes for preparation and marinating, plus another 15 minutes for cooking on the grill. Total time is around 30 minutes, making it a quick and tasty option for dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic powder, ground ginger, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss them well to make sure they’re coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you want more flavor, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours.
2. Prepare the Fruit Salsa:
While the chicken is marinating, get your fruit salsa ready! In a separate bowl, combine the diced mango, fresh pineapple, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and cilantro. Take a moment to season it with a pinch of salt and mix everything together gently. Set this colorful salsa aside to let the flavors blend.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Once you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. When it’s nice and hot, place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill along with the sliced yellow bell peppers. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F and juices should run clear). The yellow bell peppers should become tender and have a lovely char.
4. Serve:
After grilling, carefully remove the chicken and peppers from the grill. On a serving platter, arrange the grilled chicken and generously top it with the mango-pineapple salsa. If you like, sprinkle some additional cilantro on top for a fresh touch.
5. Enjoy:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve your Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken immediately, pairing it with your favorite side dishes like rice or a fresh green salad. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Can I Use Different Fruits for the Salsa?
Absolutely! If you don’t have mango or pineapple, feel free to use other fruits like peaches, strawberries, or even kiwi. Just make sure the fruits are ripe for the best flavor. Adjust the seasoning as necessary to match the sweetness of the fruit you choose.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great idea! It allows the flavors to penetrate the meat even more. Just make sure to keep it in the refrigerator to stay safe. The maximum marinating time is about 24 hours for optimal flavor and texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken and fruit salsa in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stove. The salsa can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature!
Can I Make This Recipe on a Grill Pan or Skillet?
Yes, you can! Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook the marinated chicken for about the same time as on the grill, until it reaches 165°F. You can also sauté the yellow bell peppers alongside the chicken in the pan for added flavor.
