This cheerful dish brings together sweet mango, juicy pineapple, and tender chicken, all kissed by the grill. Perfect for sunny days and easy family meals!
Every bite feels like a tropical getaway! I like to serve it with rice, but let’s be honest, I wouldn’t mind eating it right off the skewers. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. However, you could use thighs for a richer flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option! They’ll pair well with the flavors here.
Mango: A ripe mango adds sweetness, but if you can’t find it, diced peaches or apricots are great alternatives. Just ensure they are ripe for the best flavor!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple chunks give a tropical taste. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple works too, but make sure to drain it well. Frozen could be used if thawed properly.
Bell Pepper: Yellow bell pepper adds color and sweetness. You can swap it for red or orange bell peppers, or even zucchini for a veggie twist!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but if you prefer, you can substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option. Adjust to taste!
How Do I Get the Chicken Juicy and Tender?
Cooking chicken on the grill can be tricky sometimes, but there are a few tips to keep it juicy. First, always marinate the chicken! It helps to infuse flavor and soften the meat.
- Don’t skip the marination time – 15-30 minutes makes a big difference.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high to get a good sear.
- Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for fully cooked chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to lock in moisture.
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy juicy, tender chicken in every bite!
Easy Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (preferably sweet onion)
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 small red chili or 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or additional olive oil for the grill
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15-30 minutes for marinating the chicken. Grilling takes around 15 minutes. So, you can have this tropical delight ready in around 45 minutes—perfect for a delightful weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mango Pineapple Salsa:
In a medium bowl, mix the chopped mango, pineapple chunks, half of the chopped onion, and the red chili or red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Add lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to combine, and then set it aside for the flavors to blend while you prepare the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
In another bowl, whisk 1 tablespoon of olive oil with minced garlic, the remaining chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and ensure they are thoroughly coated with the marinade. Let them sit for about 15-30 minutes at room temperature. This step makes the chicken flavorful and tender!
3. Prepare the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates with cooking spray or the remaining olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken and Vegetables:
Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Grill them for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, or until they have nice grill marks and are cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). While the chicken is grilling, toss the sliced yellow bell peppers on the grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side until they’re tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve It Up:
Once the chicken is grilled, transfer it to a serving plate. If you like, you can slice the chicken for easier serving. Surround the chicken with the grilled bell peppers, and generously spoon the mango pineapple salsa over the top.
6. Garnish:
Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor!
7. Optional Sides:
For a complete tropical-inspired meal, serve your grilled chicken with steamed rice or a fresh green salad. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Bon appétit! Try to savor the vibrant, juicy, and sweet flavors of this delightful dish, bursting with the essence of summer!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating. The best way to thaw chicken is by leaving it in the fridge overnight or using the quick method of sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want to add more heat, use more red chili or red pepper flakes in the marinade or salsa. You could also add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mango pineapple salsa for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare the Salsa Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mango pineapple salsa a few hours in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, and it will be ready to use when you’re grilling the chicken.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness, keep the salsa separate from the chicken until you’re ready to eat. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stove to prevent it from drying out.
