Grilled Pineapple Barbecue Chicken – Tasty Shelter

As a food enthusiast, I believe every great meal starts with the right combination of flavors. When I find myself dreaming of sunny skies and a grill fired up in the backyard, one dish often floats to the top of my mind: Grilled Pineapple Barbecue Chicken.

 This isn’t just any chicken dish; it’s a tantalizing experience that marries the sweet juiciness of pineapple with a savory barbecue glaze. I mean, who can resist that?

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A Match Made in Flavor Heaven

While the chicken takes center stage, it’s essential to elevate it with the perfect sides. Picture this: fresh corn on the cob, lightly charred and brushed with butter, a vibrant cucumber salad to add some crunch, and perhaps even toasted garlic bread for a satisfying finish. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in a refreshing watermelon salad to cleanse the palate. Trust me, these sides pair brilliantly with the tropical vibe of grilled pineapple barbecue chicken.

What is Grilled Pineapple Barbecue Chicken?

Grilled Pineapple Barbecue Chicken is a delightful dish that combines marinated chicken breast with grilled pineapple slices and a smoky barbecue sauce. 

The sweetness of the pineapple adds depth to the savory elements of the chicken, creating a mouthwatering balance that’s perfect for summer cookouts or cozy family dinners. With minimal prep and a quick grilling time, this dish becomes a go-to for both casual gatherings and festive feasts.

The Ingredients

To create this flavorful dish, gather these ingredients:

• 1 tbsp chopped scallions – for a fresh, savory finish
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice – use unsweetened for natural tropical tang
  
• 1 tsp Sriracha (optional) – adjust to taste for heat
  
• 1.33 lbs chicken breast, boneless and skinless – sliced or left whole based on cooking method
  
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
  
• 1 tbsp lime juice – adds brightness and balances the sweetness
  
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce – preferably a low-sugar variety for better balance
  
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated or minced
  
• 2 cups fresh pineapple, cut into thin slices
  
• 2 tbsp soy sauce – for umami depth
  

These ingredients not only come together to create an amazing flavor profile but also secure a healthy, wholesome meal.

How to Make Grilled Pineapple Barbecue Chicken

The process may seem straightforward, but this dish bursts with vibrant flavors. Let’s break it down into easy steps.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by creating a marinade that will give the chicken its delicious flavor. In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, minced garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, Sriracha (if using), and fresh ginger. Whisk until well blended.

Next, add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. But if you can wait a few hours, go for it! This step infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

While your chicken is soaking up those tasty flavors, it’s time to prepare your grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, you want to get that juicy, smoky flavor going. A gas grill will work just fine, too; just make sure those grates are nice and hot!

Step 3: Grill the Pineapple

Once the grill is ready, place the pineapple slices on it. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they have those beautiful grill marks and a slight caramelization. This step intensifies their sweetness and adds a hint of smokiness.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Now, onto the star of the show! Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Place the chicken on the hot grill. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. To ensure it’s done, your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). For an extra layer of flavor, brush some of your favorite barbecue sauce on the chicken in the last few minutes of grilling.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, add the grilled chicken to a serving platter, topped with the grilled pineapple slices. You can drizzle extra barbecue sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. Trust me, the sweet and savory combination is simply irresistible!

Notes

Here are a few tips to perfect your grilled pineapple barbecue chicken:

Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for chicken breasts that are uniform in size for even cooking

• Marinate Longer: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be
  
• Use Fresh Pineapple: Canned pineapple lacks the freshness and texture you want for grilling
  
• Rest After Grilling: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices
  
• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to try different barbecue sauces to find your favorite flavor profile
  

Storage Tips

Leftover grilled pineapple barbecue chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw in the fridge and reheat on the grill or stovetop.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutrition per serving:

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 34g
  
• Fat: 8g
  
• Carbohydrates: 24g
  
• Fiber: 2g
  
• Sugar: 12g
  

This dish provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, making it a nutritious option for dinner.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some fantastic ideas to complement grilled pineapple barbecue chicken:

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Brighten up your plate with colorful skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, brushed with olive oil and seasoned with herbs. They add a pop of nutrition and flavor!

2. Coconut Rice
Serve this dish over fluffy coconut rice. Cook the rice in coconut milk for a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet pineapple.

3. Quinoa Salad
A refreshing quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide a crunchy counterbalance to the tender chicken.

4. Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad sprinkled with parmesan brings a classic touch that cuts through the sweetness of the dish.

5. Corn on the Cob
Nothing says summer like corn hot off the grill! Brush it with butter and a sprinkle of salt for a simple side that everyone loves.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Grilled Pineapple Barbecue Chicken?

Sometimes you need alternatives. Here are some options:

1. Chicken Thighs
If you prefer juicier, more flavorful meat, bone-in skin-on chicken thighs work beautifully.

2. Tofu
For a vegetarian take, use firm tofu marinated in the same mixture. Grill it until nicely charred.

3. Pork Chops
Pork chops could swap in for a deliciously savory version, pairing perfectly with pineapple.

4. Turkey Breast
This lean meat can replace the chicken, and it still complements the sweetness of the pineapple well!

5. Fish Fillets
Try this recipe with firm white fish like mahi-mahi or tilapia for a unique spin that pairs beautifully with pineapple.

Grilled Pineapple Barbecue Chicken

Sharon Brown

As a food enthusiast, I believe every great meal starts with the right combination of flavors. When I find myself dreaming of sunny skies and a grill fired up in the backyard, one dish often floats to the top of my mind: Grilled Pineapple Barbecue Chicken.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Bowl, Whisk

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 tbsp chopped scallions – for a fresh savory finish
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice – use unsweetened for natural tropical tang
• 1 tsp Sriracha optional – adjust to taste for heat
• 1.33 lbs chicken breast boneless and skinless – sliced or left whole based on cooking method
• 1 garlic clove finely minced
• 1 tbsp lime juice – adds brightness and balances the sweetness
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce – preferably a low-sugar variety for better balance
• 1 tsp fresh ginger grated or minced
• 2 cups fresh pineapple cut into thin slices
• 2 tbsp soy sauce – for umami depth

Instructions

 

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

• Start by creating a marinade that will give the chicken its delicious flavor. In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, minced garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, Sriracha (if using), and fresh ginger. Whisk until well blended.
• Next, add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. But if you can wait a few hours, go for it! This step infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

• While your chicken is soaking up those tasty flavors, it’s time to prepare your grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, you want to get that juicy, smoky flavor going. A gas grill will work just fine, too; just make sure those grates are nice and hot!

Step 3: Grill the Pineapple

• Once the grill is ready, place the pineapple slices on it. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they have those beautiful grill marks and a slight caramelization. This step intensifies their sweetness and adds a hint of smokiness.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

• Now, onto the star of the show! Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Place the chicken on the hot grill. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness. To ensure it’s done, your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). For an extra layer of flavor, brush some of your favorite barbecue sauce on the chicken in the last few minutes of grilling.

Step 5: Serve

• Once cooked, add the grilled chicken to a serving platter, topped with the grilled pineapple slices. You can drizzle extra barbecue sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. Trust me, the sweet and savory combination is simply irresistible!

Notes

Here are a few tips to perfect your grilled pineapple barbecue chicken:

Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for chicken breasts that are uniform in size for even cooking

• Marinate Longer: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be
• Use Fresh Pineapple: Canned pineapple lacks the freshness and texture you want for grilling
• Rest After Grilling: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices

Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to try different barbecue sauces to find your favorite flavor profile

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 34gFat: 8gFiber: 2gSugar: 12g

Keyword Grilled Pineapple Barbecue Chicken

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Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Grilled Pineapple Barbecue Chicken not only tantalizes your taste buds but also creates delightful memories around the grill. With its perfect blend of savory and sweet, this dish makes a lasting impression at any gathering. Whether you’re firing up the grill for friends or whipping up a simple family meal, it’s a recipe that’s sure to please.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up that grill, and indulge in the tropical flavors of summer. Happy cooking!

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