This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy dish that brings the flavors of the tropics right to your grill. Marinated in a zesty blend of pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, and ginger, then grilled to perfection—this chicken is juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor.
Perfect for summer dinners, backyard barbecues, or meal prep!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🍯 Sweet & Savory: Honey balances the tangy pineapple for a perfect flavor harmony.
- 🌶️ Warm Spices: Garlic, ginger, and lime give it a bold, aromatic finish.
- 🔥 Grilled Perfection: Beautiful char marks, juicy texture, and caramelized edges from the marinade.
- ⏱️ Quick Prep Time: Just 10 minutes to make the marinade and 1 hour to rest—it does the work for you.
- 🍽️ Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults—great over rice, quinoa, or on its own.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- ½ cup pineapple juice (from canned or fresh pineapple)
- ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil for grilling)
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice (or lemon as substitute)
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
- Fresh cilantro , chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Pineapple juice
- Honey
- Soy sauce
- Olive oil
- Minced garlic
- Lime juice
- Ground ginger
- A dash of salt and pepper
Mix until fully combined and smooth.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish.
Pour the marinade evenly over the chicken.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour , or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Pro Tip: Flip halfway through marinating for even coating.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F / 190–200°C).
Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover liquid.
Place on the hot grill and cook for 6–8 minutes per side , or until golden brown with grill marks and cooked through.
Internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) .
Step 5: Rest & Garnish
Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5–10 minutes —this keeps it juicy.
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro if desired.
Serve warm with your favorite sides or carve into slices for wraps and bowls.
Tips for Success:
- 🍋 Double the Glaze: Reserve a few tablespoons of marinade and brush it on during last minute of grilling for extra shine.
- 🥘 Chicken Thighs Work Too: Use boneless thighs for more juiciness and smoky flavor.
- 🍚 Great With Rice: Serve with coconut rice, jasmine rice, or quinoa for a complete tropical plate.
- 🧄 Use Fresh Garlic: Minced fresh garlic gives the best aroma and depth.
- 🥗 Meal Prep Friendly: These keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for future meals.
Serving Suggestions:
- Top with fresh pineapple chunks or mango salsa for extra fruitiness.
- Serve alongside grilled vegetables or a simple green salad.
- Great in tacos, wraps, or over grain bowls with avocado-lime dressing.
Nutritional Information (per chicken breast, approx. 4 servings):
(Without side dishes – approximate)
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: ~35g
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Fat: ~9g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~10g
This Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a flavor-packed way to enjoy healthy protein with a taste of the islands. Whether you’re grilling for dinner or prepping for lunch—the sweet, sticky glaze and warm spices make this an instant favorite.
So fire up the grill and give this a try… because once you taste it—you’ll want to make it again and again!
