Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
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The marinade for this simple honey pineapple grilled chicken only needs 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. Fresh pineapple juice can be used as an alternative to canned pineapple juice.
Grilled chicken is a summer staple in our house. So, I’m always looking for new and tasty ways to make it. You can also use sliced boneless chicken thighs as an alternative to chicken tenders. This combination makes such a delicious, flavorful chicken that is great by itself. It would also be perfect to add to other things like salads. I served it up with my recipe for pineapple rice.
Ingredients to Make Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
- ITALIAN DRESSING – This is excellent for a marinade due to its combination of oil, vinegar, and various herbs and spices. The oil helps to tenderize the meat by breaking down muscle fibers, while the acidity from the vinegar aids in further tenderizing and adding flavor. The herbs and spices in the dressing 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 overall taste of the dish. 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 enhancing its flavor with 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 place it in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour, preferably overnight, for the best flavor. Pineapple rings or fresh pineapple spears can be added to the grill alongside the chicken for a sweet and 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 and delicious marinade’s 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
Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Real Mom Kitchen
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup Italian dressing
- 2 Tbsp pineapple juice
- 3 Tbsp honey
- 1½ lbs boneless chicken tenders
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix Italian dressing, pineapple juice and honey together. Add it to a gallon sized ziploc bag and add in the chicken. Place in the fridge and allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour, preferably overnight.
- Remove chicken from marinade and place on a preheated grill. Grill on medium heat, approximately 10 minutes, until done. Serves 4.
Nutrition
Recipe is adapted from Plain Chicken.
