Hawaiian Grilled Chicken and Pineapple

The sweet aroma of grilled chicken mingled with the delicious scent of caramelized pineapple fills the air, evoking memories of tropical getaways. This Hawaiian Grilled Chicken and Pineapple recipe brings the sunshine of the islands to your table in just under an hour. The perfect balance of savory and sweet from a simple marinade makes this dish a sure-fire crowd-pleaser.

This recipe is an excellent choice for family dinners, summer barbecues, or an easy weeknight meal. You can prep the marinade ahead of time, and simply store it in the refrigerator, making last-minute meals a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The marinade infuses the chicken with a deep, flavorful richness.
• Grilling the pineapple adds a delightful sweetness and caramelization.
• It’s simple to prepare and ready in under an hour.
• The dish is refreshing and perfect for warm-weather meals.

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to create a flavorful dish.

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken and Pineapple

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup pineapple chunks

For Serving

• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Honey: maple syrup for vegan option
• Olive oil: canola oil or avocado oil
• Fresh ginger: 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Cilantro: parsley or green onions

How to Make It

Prepare this delicious meal with these simple steps.

Whisk

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.

Marinate

Place the chicken breasts in a bag or dish and pour the marinade over them, adding the pineapple chunks.

Refrigerate

Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.

Preheat

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat while the chicken marinates.

Grill Chicken

Remove the chicken and pineapple from the marinade and grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.

Grill Pineapple

Grill the pineapple chunks until they are caramelized, about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Serve

Serve the grilled chicken topped with grilled pineapple and garnish with fresh cilantro.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, best enjoyed fresh.
Reheat: microwave for 2 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Marinate the chicken for longer for even deeper flavors.
• Ensure your grill is well-oiled to prevent sticking.
• Use fresh pineapple for the best caramelization and sweetness.
• Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside coconut rice for a tropical twist.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
• Enjoy with grilled vegetables for a complete plate.