Hawaiian Grilled Chicken and Pineapple

Juicy grilled chicken infused with a sweet and savory marinade, Hawaiian Grilled Chicken and Pineapple is the perfect dish for warm evenings. This recipe takes only about 40 minutes to prepare and cook, delivering a delightful combination of flavors that shines during summertime barbecues. The blend of pineapple juice and soy sauce creates an irresistible marinade that keeps the chicken tender and flavorful.

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game or impress guests at a summer cookout. It’s an excellent choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. The chicken can be marinated in advance to save time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or planned parties.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with a burst of tropical flavor.
• Grilling caramelizes the natural sugars in the pineapple, adding a sweet touch.
• It’s a quick recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh cilantro adds a fragrant finishing touch that brightens the dish.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious meal.

For the Marinade

• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce, or tamari for gluten-free
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For Grilling

• 1 fresh pineapple, sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Use tamari for a gluten-free option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
• Substitute agave or honey for brown sugar.
• Replace fresh pineapple with canned (drained).
• Use dried ginger if fresh isn’t available.

How to Make It

Create a simple, flavorful meal with these straightforward steps.

Combine the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, and black pepper to create the marinade.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and ensure they are well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s hot enough for a good sear.

Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Grill the Pineapple

During the last few minutes of grilling, place the pineapple slices on the grill and cook until caramelized, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Serve and Garnish

Remove chicken and pineapple from the grill. Serve the grilled chicken topped with pineapple slices and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, best enjoyed fresh.
Reheat: microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.

Tips for Best Results

• Let the chicken marinate for the full time for maximum flavor.
• Ensure the grill is properly preheated for even cooking.
• Adjust grilling time based on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
• For extra char, lightly brush the chicken with leftover marinade before grilling.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with coconut rice for a tropical feel.
• Serve alongside a fresh green salad.
• Complement with a light white wine or tropical cocktail.