Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken

This simple honey pineapple grilled chicken marinade needs only three ingredients. You can use any chicken for the marinade, but I love to use chicken tenders. They easily absorb the marinade and grill up in no time. You can use fresh pineapple juice as an alternative to canned pineapple juice.

Grilled chicken is a summer staple in our house. So I’m always looking for new, tasty ways to make it. You can also use sliced boneless chicken thighs as an alternative to chicken tenders. This combination makes delicious, flavorful chicken that is great on its own. It’s also perfect to add to other dishes, like salads. I served it up with my pineapple rice recipe.

Ingredients to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken

• ITALIAN DRESSING – This is excellent for a marinade because it combines oil, vinegar, and various herbs and spices. The oil helps tenderize the meat by breaking down muscle fibers, while the vinegar’s acidity further tenderizes it and adds flavor. The herbs and spices infuse the chicken with a rich, savory taste, making it a convenient and flavorful choice for marinating.
• PINEAPPLE JUICE—The juice’s natural sweetness and tanginess add a delicious tropical flavor to the marinade, enhancing the dish’s overall taste. It also helps to keep the meat moist during cooking, preventing it from drying out and ensuring a juicy, flavorful result.
• HONEY – The sugars in honey promote caramelization, giving the meat a beautiful, appetizing glaze and a slightly crispy, caramelized exterior.
• BONELESS SKINLESS CHICKEN TENDERS – They are relatively small and thin, allowing them to absorb the marinade flavors quickly and evenly. Due to their size and uniform thickness, chicken tenders cook quickly and evenly, making them ideal for grilling.

How to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, pineapple juice, and honey until well combined.

Pour the marinade into a gallon-sized Ziploc bag. Add the boneless chicken tenders to the bag, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade. Seal the bag and refrigerate. Marinate the chicken for at least one hour, preferably overnight, for the best flavor. Add pineapple rings or fresh pineapple spears to the grill alongside the chicken for a sweet, savory accompaniment.

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade and place them on the grill. Grill the chicken for approximately 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Serve the dish with grilled pineapple for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy this easy, delicious marinade with a delightful blend of flavors from the Italian dressing, pineapple juice, and honey!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pineapple juice instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple juice. Just make sure to measure it to get the correct amount needed for the marinade.

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! This chicken recipe works well with chicken breasts, thighs, and drumsticks. Adjust the grilling time accordingly based on the cut and thickness of the chicken.

What should I serve with honey pineapple grilled chicken?
This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides such as rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, quinoa salad, or even a light pasta salad. For a tropical twist, you can serve it with coconut rice or mango salsa.

Can I use the marinated chicken in a stir fry?
Yes, you can use the marinated chicken for stir-fry. Simply add the marinated chicken, along with peppers, onions, and pineapple, to a wok. Stir-fry with a flavorful sauce for a quick and easy meal.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover honey pineapple grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken in the marinade. Place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling or baking.

FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:

• Honey Orange Grilled Chicken
• Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
• Grilled Buttery Steakhouse Chicken
• Grilled Applewood Chicken

Recipe is adapted from Plain Chicken.