Grilled Pineapple Chicken Glaze

Juicy grilled chicken meets the tangy sweetness of caramelized pineapple in a dish that brings sunshine to your dinner table any time of year. The sweet glaze sticks to every bite and the savory spices balance everything with just enough kick. This recipe is for those days when you need something fun and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

The first time I made this, the smell of grilled pineapple drew my family from every room. There were no leftovers that night, just happy faces and requests for more.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: add lean protein and cook up juicy on the grill Look for firm fresh chicken without gray patches for best results
• Olive oil: helps hold the spices and keeps the chicken from sticking Use extra virgin for richer flavor
• Garlic powder: brings an underlying savory warmth Choose a fresh fragrant powder for the strongest punch
• Onion powder: adds a gentle sweetness and depth Go for granules that have a pale golden color
• Paprika: infuses smokiness and color Smoked paprika makes it even more intense
• Salt: brings out all the flavors A coarse sea salt will work well
• Black pepper: gives a subtle heat and sharpness Always grind fresh for best aroma
• Fresh pineapple: is the star bringing natural sweetness and caramelization Pick one that smells sweet at the stem and has a slight give when pressed
• Honey: balances the acidity and thickens the glaze Try to get a local raw honey for best taste
• Lime juice: brightens the sauce and balances the sweetness Use freshly squeezed for zesty flavor
• Soy sauce: ties the sweet and savory flavors together Low sodium soy sauce works well
• Fresh cilantro: adds a splash of green and a citrusy finish Look for firm bright leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Grill:

Start by preheating your grill to medium high heat and scrub the grates clean Use a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent the chicken from sticking and help develop beautiful grill marks

Trim the Chicken:

Grab your chicken breasts and place on a clean cutting board Carefully remove any bits of fat or gristle using a sharp knife and make sure each piece is evenly boneless and skinless for even cooking

Season the Chicken:

In a small bowl mix olive oil garlic powder onion powder paprika salt and black pepper Stir until everything is well combined This will be your flavor base

Coat the Chicken:

Rub your seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast Make sure every inch is covered for full flavor Set aside and let marinate for at least five minutes

Make the Pineapple Glaze:

Chop the fresh pineapple into small chunks Place in a bowl with honey lime juice soy sauce and chopped fresh cilantro Mix together making sure the honey is dissolved into everything

Grill the Chicken:

Place the marinated chicken breasts on the hot grill Cook for six to seven minutes per side Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature It should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe eating

Simmer the Glaze:

While the chicken cooks pour your pineapple glaze mixture into a small saucepan Set over medium heat Bring to a gentle simmer and stir occasionally Let it cook for five to seven minutes until it thickens slightly

Glaze the Chicken:

Remove the cooked chicken from the grill and place on a plate Brush generously with the thickened pineapple glaze while still hot Add more glaze on the side for dipping if you love extra sauce

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle extra fresh cilantro over the finished chicken for color and pop of fresh flavor Serve right away and enjoy the sweet smoky aroma

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Every time I grill pineapple the kitchen fills with a caramelized aroma that brings everyone to the table fast My favorite part is hearing compliments about the sauce and seeing those empty plates

Storage Tips

Store leftover chicken and glaze in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days Reheat the chicken gently on a skillet over medium low so it does not dry out The glaze can be warmed in a small saucepan or microwave for drizzling

Ingredient Substitutions

Boneless chicken thighs work beautifully if you want extra juiciness Canned pineapple can be used in a pinch but fresh has the brightest flavor Agave can replace honey if you need a vegan option

Serving Suggestions

Pair this grilled pineapple chicken with coconut rice or a crisp cucumber salad for a full meal It also works perfectly in lettuce wraps or sliced over a bed of greens with extra glaze as a dressing

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Cultural Note

Grilling pineapple and meats together has roots in many tropical cuisines especially in Hawaii where sweet and savory flavors are always celebrated This dish echoes those flavors and brings them to your backyard or kitchen stove

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I keep the chicken moist while grilling?

Marinating with olive oil and not overcooking helps retain juiciness. Grill over medium-high heat and check temperature for perfectly moist meat.

→ Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh pineapple offers brighter flavor and better texture. Drain canned well to avoid extra moisture in the glaze.

→ What sides pair well with grilled pineapple chicken?

Steamed rice, fresh salad, or grilled vegetables complement the sweet and savory elements of this dish splendidly.

→ How can I make the glaze spicier?

Add a pinch of chipotle powder or finely chopped jalapeño for extra heat and smoky complexity in the glaze.

→ Is it possible to make this dish ahead?

Prepare the pineapple glaze in advance and store it refrigerated. Grill the chicken fresh for best texture and flavor.