Description
This Grilled Aloha Chicken and Pineapple recipe offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory tropical flavors. Marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger, the chicken is grilled to juicy perfection and paired with caramelized pineapple rings brushed with a honey-lime glaze. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a flavorful weeknight dinner, featuring bright, fresh garnishes of cilantro and lime wedges.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade Ingredients
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Main Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings or chunks
Pineapple Glaze
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, pineapple juice, olive oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, sesame seeds if using, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight to deepen the flavors.
- Prepare the Pineapple Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together honey, lime juice, and ground cinnamon if using. Brush this glaze evenly over the pineapple rings or chunks before grilling.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, getting it ready for the chicken and pineapple.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6 to 8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is nicely charred.
- Grill the Pineapple: Place the glazed pineapple pieces on the grill. Grill for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the pineapple caramelizes slightly.
- Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken and pineapple to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley and lime wedges. Serve with rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- Use fresh pineapple for the best caramelization and sweetness.
- The optional cinnamon adds a warm spicy note to the pineapple glaze that complements the tropical flavors.
- Ensure the grill is properly preheated to prevent sticking and to achieve beautiful grill marks.
- Check chicken internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it is cooked safely.
