Grilled Pineapple Chicken Recipe

Grilled Pineapple Chicken has been a summertime favorite in my kitchen for years—it’s that perfect mix of smoky, sweet, and tangy that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. I first made this on a whim during a backyard get-together, and it’s been a go-to ever since. The way the pineapple caramelizes on the grill and wraps the chicken in a sticky, golden glaze is pure magic.

It’s not just easy—it’s one of those recipes that feels special without needing anything fancy. Whether I’m serving it with a side of grilled veggies, rice, or a crisp salad, Grilled Pineapple Chicken always steals the show. If you’re craving something bold yet simple, this Grilled Pineapple Chicken is the kind of meal you’ll want on repeat all summer long.

Why Grilled Pineapple Chicken is a Summer Must-Have

Grilled Pineapple Chicken has become one of those recipes I rely on when I want something that feels festive but doesn’t take all day to make. The way the pineapple’s sweetness blends with that smoky grilled flavor is just unbeatable—and the fruit’s natural enzymes make the chicken extra tender and juicy every single time.

Inspired by the warm, bold flavors of Hawaiian cuisine, this Grilled Pineapple Chicken brings that classic sweet-and-savory combo to your plate with minimal effort. Whether I’m prepping it for a laid-back weeknight dinner or a big weekend BBQ, this Grilled Pineapple Chicken always fits the moment. It’s easy to double for a crowd, and since the marinade can be made ahead, it’s perfect for when I want to cook something delicious without stressing.

Jump to:

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Health Benefits and Dietary Adaptations
• Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• Storage and Meal Prep Tips
• The Secret That Changed My Grilled Pineapple Chicken Forever
• FAQ
• Related
• Pairing
• Grilled Pineapple Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• Skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
• Fresh pineapple, cored and cut into ½-inch rings
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pineapple Marinade:

• Pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Honey
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh ginger, grated
• Lime juice
• Lime zest
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:

• Chicken: Chicken thighs work wonderfully too and stay even more moist on the grill. For a leaner option, stick with chicken breasts but be careful not to overcook them.
• Pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives the best results, but canned pineapple rings can work in a pinch. Just make sure to drain them well and pat dry before grilling.
• Brown Sugar: You can substitute with coconut sugar or maple syrup for different flavor profiles.
• Lime: Lemon juice works as a substitute, though lime gives a more authentic tropical flavor.

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade and Marinate the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, lime zest, and red pepper flakes if using. This citrus marinade for chicken creates the perfect flavor base that will infuse the meat with tropical goodness.
2. Reserve about ⅓ cup of the marinade in a separate container for basting later. Cover and refrigerate this portion to keep it fresh and safe for cooking.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer marination time allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
5. About 30 minutes before cooking, remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator to come to room temperature. This helps achieve more even cooking throughout.

Prep Your Grill and Get Ready to Cook

1. Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F). Clean the grill grates thoroughly and oil them lightly to prevent sticking.
2. If using a charcoal grill, arrange coals to create zones of different heat levels – direct high heat for searing and indirect medium heat for finishing the cooking process.
3. Remove chicken from marinade and discard the used marinade. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Brush pineapple rings with olive oil and set aside, ready for grilling. Proper grill preparation is key to getting those beautiful grill marks.

Grill the Chicken and Pineapple

1. Place chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on the first side without moving it. This allows proper searing and those coveted grill marks to form.
2. Flip the chicken and continue grilling for another 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer. The chicken grill time guide can vary based on thickness, so always rely on temperature rather than time alone.
3. During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with the reserved marinade to create a beautiful sticky grilled chicken glaze.
4. While the chicken finishes cooking, place the oiled pineapple rings on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until you see nice caramelization and grill marks. The charred pineapple slices develop an incredible sweetness that complements the savory chicken perfectly.
5. Be careful not to over-grill the pineapple, as it can become mushy. You want it tender with slightly crispy edges and those beautiful caramelized spots.

Rest and Serve Your Grilled Pineapple Chicken

1. Remove both the chicken and pineapple from the grill once they're perfectly cooked.
2. Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is as juicy as possible.
3. Slice the chicken against the grain for maximum tenderness.
4. Arrange the sliced chicken on a platter with the grilled pineapple rings, and serve immediately while everything is still warm and fragrant.

Essential Grilling Tips for Successful Rest and Serve Your Grilled Pineapple Chicken

• Temperature Control: Maintaining the right temperature is crucial for juicy grilled chicken. Too hot, and the outside burns before the inside cooks. Too cool, and you won't get proper searing.
• Don't Move Too Soon: Let the chicken develop a proper sear before flipping. If it's sticking to the grill, it's not ready to turn yet.
• Use a Thermometer: The most reliable way to avoid overcooking is using an instant-read thermometer. Chicken is done at 165°F internal temperature.
• Let It Rest: Resting the meat after grilling is just as important as proper cooking. It keeps all those delicious juices locked in.

Health Benefits and Dietary Adaptations

This grilled chicken breast recipe offers excellent nutritional value with lean protein from the chicken and beneficial enzymes from fresh pineapple. Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.

The dish is naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted for various dietary needs. For a lower-sodium version, reduce the soy sauce and add more citrus juice and herbs. Those following a paleo diet can substitute coconut aminos for soy sauce and use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.

The recipe is also keto-friendly if you reduce or eliminate the brown sugar and honey, focusing on the natural sweetness of the pineapple and the savory elements of the marinade.

What to Serve with Grilled Pineapple Chicken

This tropical grilled chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of tropical side dishes. Consider serving it over coconut rice or with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn. A fresh salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors perfectly.

For a complete tropical-themed dinner, consider adding grilled sweet potato wedges or a quinoa salad with mango and black beans. The sweet and savory combination works wonderfully with Asian-inspired sides like sesame green beans or cucumber salad.

Recipe Variations

• Pineapple Chicken Skewers: Cut the chicken and pineapple into chunks and thread onto skewers with bell peppers and red onion for easy chicken skewer recipe preparation.
• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the marinade for those who like heat with their sweet.
• Asian-Inspired: Add sesame oil and rice vinegar to the marinade, and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
• Mexican Twist: Use the chicken in tacos with the grilled pineapple, adding cilantro, lime, and a creamy avocado sauce.

Equipment

A good meat thermometer is absolutely essential for perfectly cooked chicken every time. A gas grill or charcoal grill both work well, though gas grills offer more temperature control for beginners.

Long-handled tongs are crucial for safely flipping the chicken without piercing the meat and losing precious juices. A basting brush helps apply the reserved marinade for that beautiful final glaze.

If you don't have an outdoor grill, this Rest and Serve Your Grilled Pineapple Chicken recipe works well on a grill pan or even under the broiler, though you'll miss some of that authentic smoky flavor that makes grilled food so special.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Store leftover grilled pineapple chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day, making this perfect for meal prep. You can slice the chicken and use it in salads, wraps, or grain bowls throughout the week.

The chicken can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. To reheat, use a low oven temperature (300°F) to avoid drying out the meat.

The marinade can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator, making this an excellent option for planned meals or entertaining.

FAQ

Why Grilled Pineapple Chicken Will Always Have a Spot on My Summer Table

Grilled Pineapple Chicken isn’t just a recipe—it’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into something memorable. The smoky-sweet flavor, the juicy tenderness, and the simplicity of it all make it a favorite I come back to every grilling season. Whether you’re planning a laid-back backyard dinner or a vibrant summer gathering, this dish brings sunshine to the table every time.

If you’re craving more grilled goodness, don’t miss my crowd-pleasing Grilled Chicken Margherita Recipe or the bold, herby flavors of Chimichurri Chicken Thighs. And when you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out—your stories make this space feel like home.

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Pairing

These are my favorite dishes to serve with this Grilled Pineapple Chicken recipe: