Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
🥭🍍🍗 EASY, ready in 10 minutes, and the flavor of the juicy chicken makes you feel like you’re on a TROPICAL island! Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a summer barbecue. The combination of mango and pineapple adds a refreshing twist that elevates this dish to new heights, making it a standout choice for any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 10 minutes of cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Tropical Flavor: The blend of salsa, mango, and pineapple delivers a burst of tropical flavors that transport you to an island paradise.
- Grilled Goodness: Grilling enhances the taste and texture of the chicken while creating those beautiful char marks everyone loves.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, salads, or grilled veggies for a complete meal that suits any palate.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings; everyone will love this juicy and flavorful dish.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready will make preparing Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken a breeze.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill (gas or charcoal)
- Large ziptop plastic bag
- Grill basket
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: This is essential for achieving that smoky flavor and perfect sear on the chicken.
- Ziptop Plastic Bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly without making a mess.
- Grill Basket: Helps cook vegetables evenly while allowing them to absorb smoky flavors.
- Tongs: Perfect for flipping chicken and stirring vegetables without piercing them.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)
- 8 ounces Island Salsa (or your favorite mango-pineapple salsa)
- 1/3 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
For Grilled Peppers
- 1 large yellow bell pepper (sliced into 1/2-inch wide strips)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
For Topping
- 4 ounces Island Salsa (or as desired)
- 1/2 cup diced mango (thawed and drained if using frozen)
- 1/3 cup pineapple tidbits (thawed and drained if using frozen)
- 2 to 4 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional for garnishing)
How to Make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- To a large ziptop plastic bag, add the chicken, salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper. Seal the bag tightly.
- Smoosh around to evenly coat the chicken with marinade.
- Place the bag in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
- Lightly oil your grill grates with oil using a paper towel or brush.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Step 3: Prepare Peppers
- Place sliced yellow bell peppers in a grill basket.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss using tongs until evenly coated.
Step 4: Grill Chicken and Peppers
- Add marinated chicken to one side of the grill.
- Place the grill basket with peppers on the other side.
- Discard remaining marinade from the bag.
- Grill chicken for about 4-5 minutes on one side with lid closed.
- Flip the chicken and grill for another 4-5 minutes until cooked through.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- While chicken cooks, stir peppers occasionally with tongs until they reach desired tenderness.
- Once done, remove chicken from the grill and place on a serving platter.
- Top each breast with additional salsa as desired, then add diced mango and pineapple.
- Optionally sprinkle with cilantro before serving hot.
Enjoy your delicious Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken as part of your next meal!
How to Serve Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant dish that brings tropical flavors to your table. Here are some delightful ways to serve this delicious meal.
Fresh Salad
- Mixed greens with a light vinaigrette complement the chicken’s sweetness.
- Add sliced avocado for creaminess and extra nourishment.
Coconut Rice
- This aromatic rice dish enhances the tropical vibe with its subtle coconut flavor.
- Cook rice in coconut milk for an extra twist.
Grilled Vegetables
- Serve the chicken alongside grilled zucchini, squash, or asparagus for added color and nutrients.
- Toss vegetables in olive oil and seasonings before grilling for optimal flavor.
Tropical Fruit Salsa
- A fresh mango and pineapple salsa can be served on top of the chicken for an extra burst of flavor.
- Include diced red onion and jalapeño for a zesty kick.
Corn on the Cob
- Sweet corn pairs beautifully with the grilled chicken, adding crunch and sweetness.
- Grill it directly on the grill for smoky flavor.
Tortillas
- Offer warm tortillas for a fun taco night experience with the chicken filling.
- Provide toppings like lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
How to Perfect Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
To achieve perfectly grilled mango pineapple chicken, follow these helpful tips for optimal results.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight infuses it with more flavor.
- Preheat Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption without drying out.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling ensures juiciness when you slice it.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add spices or herbs to customize the marinade according to your taste preferences.
- Grill Basket: Using a grill basket helps keep smaller veggies secure while grilling, making them easy to cook alongside your chicken.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Pairing side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that go well with grilled mango pineapple chicken.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds tangy freshness that balances the sweet flavors of the chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: This nutritious option can be tossed with veggies and a citrus dressing to complement your dish.
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread provides a hearty side that everyone loves; perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans harmonizes nicely with grilled flavors, making it a classic choice.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad offers coolness and crunch, enhancing your tropical theme.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries make a delightful accompaniment, adding both sweetness and texture.
- Mediterranean Couscous: This fluffy grain dish combined with herbs offers a vibrant contrast to grilled meat.
- Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers provide a light, sweet finish after your savory main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Skipping the marination – Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Always allow enough time for the chicken to soak up the salsa and lime juice.
- Not preheating the grill – A properly heated grill ensures even cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium-high before adding the chicken.
- Overcooking the chicken – It’s important to monitor cooking times closely. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Ignoring side dish preparation – Grilling peppers alongside the chicken adds vibrant flavor. Prepare your veggies ahead of time so they cook perfectly with your chicken.
- Neglecting fresh herbs for garnish – Fresh cilantro can elevate your dish. Don’t forget to add it as a finishing touch before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, then heat chicken on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, reheat chicken for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! You can substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts with thighs or even shrimp for a different flavor profile.
What if I can’t find mango-pineapple salsa?
You can make your own by mixing fresh mango, pineapple, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro together!
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest way is by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken overnight for even more intense flavors, and simply grill it when you’re ready.
What should I serve with Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with grilled vegetables or tortillas.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is not only quick and easy but also bursting with tropical flavors that transport you straight to summer paradise. Feel free to customize this dish with additional fruits or spices according to your taste preferences. Give it a try at your next barbecue!
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is your ticket to a tropical getaway, all in just 10 minutes! This vibrant dish features juicy chicken marinated in a delightful blend of mango-pineapple salsa and zesty lime juice, delivering a burst of refreshing flavors. Perfect for casual family dinners or summer barbecues, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to please any palate. Serve it alongside grilled vegetables, fresh salads, or coconut rice for a complete meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Elevate your grilling game with this delicious summertime favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces mango-pineapple salsa
- 1/3 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 large yellow bell pepper
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a ziptop bag, combine chicken, salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper. Seal tightly and shake until chicken is coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Prepare Peppers: Toss sliced yellow bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a grill basket.
- Grill: Place marinated chicken on one side of the grill and the peppers on the other. Grill chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Stir peppers occasionally until tender.
- Serve: Top grilled chicken with additional salsa, diced mango, pineapple, and cilantro before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
