Hawaiian Grilled Chicken with Pineapple (27-31 Minutes)

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Hawaiian grilled chicken with pineapple is a delightful dish that captures the flavors of the tropics. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar, which infuses it with a rich and savory taste.

Grilling the chicken and pineapple adds a delightful char and smokiness to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor. This Hawaiian-inspired recipe is perfect for a family cookout or a weeknight dinner that will transport you to a tropical paradise.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-16 minutes
  • Total Time: 27-31 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup pineapple, cut into slices
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Scallions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are hot and have turned gray.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them, making sure they are evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for 10-15 minutes while the grill heats up.
  4. Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer.
  5. While the chicken is cooking, grill the pineapple for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they are slightly caramelized and have grill marks.
  6. Remove the chicken and pineapple from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
  7. Serve the Hawaiian grilled chicken with pineapple on a platter, garnished with fresh scallions.

Notes

While the chicken only needs a short marinating time, you can let it marinate for longer, up to 24 hours, for even more flavor. Just remember to refrigerate it if marinating for an extended period. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.

It should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked through and safe to eat. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in moist and tender chicken. Serve with your favorite sides such as rice or potatoes and enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Pair this with...

Cilantro Lime Brown Rice

Begin by cooking brown rice as per package instructions, ensuring each grain remains distinct and slightly chewy, a characteristic charm of this whole grain. While the rice cooks, zest and juice a couple of fresh limes, setting aside their aromatic essence. Once the rice is done, fluff it gently with a fork to release steam and separate the grains. While still warm, drizzle the rice with the lime juice and gently mix in the zest, ensuring that citrusy goodness permeates every bite. Finally, fold in freshly chopped cilantro, which adds a burst of herbaceous brightness. Season with a touch of salt to bring all the flavors together.

Fresh Spinach Salad

Start by washing and drying fresh spinach leaves, which will serve as the vibrant base of your salad. Hull and slice some ripe strawberries, their juicy sweetness a perfect contrast to the spinach. Crumble in some creamy feta cheese, which adds a delightful salty tang. For that crunch, toss in a handful of your favorite nuts—be it toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans. When it comes to dressing, a simple balsamic vinaigrette works wonders. Whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle it over the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Watermelon and Feta Salad

First, cube up some chilled watermelon, getting rid of any seeds. Scatter a good handful of fresh blueberries over it. Now, for the contrast: crumble or cube some tangy feta cheese over the sweet fruits. The creamy, salty bite of the cheese complements the sweetness perfectly. If you're in the mood for a dash of zest, drizzle a light lemon or lime dressing over the top. Maybe even sprinkle on some chopped fresh mint or basil. Mix it gently, and voila!

Hi, I'm Alaina! As a busy mom of two, I'm tired of always wondering "what's for dinner?" That's why I created this website; to share easy and tasty recipe ideas the whole family will love. If you're not subscribed yet, join 47,098 others here - thanks for stopping by!