Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
🥭🍍🍗 EASY, ready in 10 minutes, and the flavor of the juicy chicken makes you feel like you’re on a TROPICAL island! Grilled peppers on the side make for the PERFECT summer meal! Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or any casual gathering. The vibrant flavors of mango and pineapple elevate ordinary chicken into a tropical delight that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 10 minutes of cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of mango and pineapple salsa adds a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh fruits, this recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables to create a complete meal that suits any palate.
- Perfect for Summer: Enjoy the taste of summer year-round with this refreshing dish that’s ideal for outdoor grilling.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure smooth preparation. Having the right equipment will make cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Grill basket
- Ziptop plastic bag
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavors that make grilled chicken so appealing.
- Grill Basket: Perfect for grilling vegetables without losing them through the grates, ensuring they cook evenly alongside the chicken.
- Ziptop Plastic Bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken thoroughly without making a mess; it also saves space in the fridge.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts (I had 4 breasts)
– 8 ounces Island Salsa (or use your favorite mango-pineapple salsa)
– 1/3 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
– 1 large yellow bell pepper (sliced into 1/2-inch wide strips)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
– 4 ounces Island Salsa (or as desired)
– 1/2 cup diced mango (I used frozen that I thawed and drained)
– 1/3 cup pineapple tidbits (I used frozen that I thawed and drained)
– 2 to 4 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional for garnishing)
How to Make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- To a large ziptop plastic bag, add the chicken, salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper.
- Seal the bag and smoosh around to evenly coat the chicken.
- Place the bag in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or overnight, to marinate.
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
- Lightly oil grill grates.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Peppers
- Add sliced yellow bell pepper to a grill basket.
- Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then toss using your tongs to coat evenly.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
- Place marinated chicken on one side of the grill.
- Position grill basket with peppers on the other side.
- Discard marinade bag.
- Grill chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on one side with lid closed.
- Flip chicken and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes on second side until fully cooked.
Step 5: Cook Peppers
- While chicken cooks, stir peppers intermittently with tongs until they reach desired tenderness.
Step 6: Serve
- Place grilled chicken on a large serving platter.
- Top each breast with additional salsa as desired.
- Evenly place diced mango and pineapple over chicken.
- Optionally sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken at your next gathering or simply savor it after a long day!
How to Serve Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is not just a delicious main dish; it can also be the star of your summer gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.
Fresh Salad Pairings
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette complements the flavors of the chicken.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: Combine fresh fruits like kiwi, strawberries, and bananas for a refreshing contrast.
- Cabbage Slaw: A tangy cabbage slaw with lime dressing adds crunch and balances the sweetness of the chicken.
Perfect Accompaniments
- Grilled Vegetable Medley: Pair your chicken with grilled zucchini, asparagus, or corn on the cob for a colorful plate.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken over coconut rice or quinoa for a hearty addition that soaks up the juices.
- Corn Tortillas: Wrap slices of chicken in warm corn tortillas for delicious tacos topped with salsa.
Garnishes and Extras
- Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for an extra burst of flavor.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado pairs well with the tropical elements in this dish.
How to Perfect Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
To achieve the best Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, there are a few key steps to keep in mind. These tips will help you create a flavorful and juicy result every time.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavor significantly.
- Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken to achieve perfect grill marks and prevent sticking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juices.
- Experiment with Salsa: Try different types of salsa for unique flavor combinations that suit your taste.
- Add Spice If Desired: For those who enjoy heat, consider adding some jalapeños or chili flakes to your marinade.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Complement your Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken with these tasty side dishes. Each one will enhance your meal’s tropical vibe.
- Coconut Rice: This fluffy rice cooked in coconut milk adds sweetness and complements the chicken perfectly.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until charred brings out its natural sugars and pairs wonderfully with tropical flavors.
- Black Bean Salad: A refreshing black bean salad with lime dressing provides protein and fiber while brightening up your plate.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Seasoned roasted sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and are easy to prepare alongside grilling.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser and works well to soak up any leftover juices from the chicken.
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides crunch and cuts through the richness of grilled meat nicely.
- Pasta Salad: Cold pasta salad with vegetables offers a satisfying texture that pairs well with grilled dishes.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for a nutritious addition that balances flavors beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Grilling can be a fun experience, but mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of when making Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken.
- Skipping the marinade – Marinating your chicken is essential for infusing flavor. Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or better yet, overnight for a deeper taste.
- Not preheating the grill – A hot grill is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks and cooking the chicken evenly. Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the chicken.
- Overcrowding the grill – Placing too much chicken on the grill can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Give each piece enough space for proper heat circulation.
- Ignoring internal temperature – Cooking chicken until it’s no longer pink is not enough. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Neglecting side dishes – While focusing on the chicken, don’t forget about colorful sides like grilled peppers. They complement the dish beautifully and add nutritional value.
- Serving without toppings – Adding fresh toppings like extra salsa or cilantro elevates the dish. Don’t skip this step for a vibrant finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store grilled mango pineapple chicken in an airtight container.
- It can last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until heated through.
- Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and cover. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to season Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?
The key is to use flavorful marinades like mango-pineapple salsa combined with lime juice and olive oil. Experimenting with spices can also enhance taste.
Can I make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in advance and even grill it beforehand. Just store it properly as outlined above.
What are good side dishes with Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?
Grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad pair wonderfully with this dish. They balance its sweetness and add color.
How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy?
Avoid overcooking by monitoring its internal temperature closely and using marinades that add moisture during grilling.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile, perfect for summer meals or gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite fruits or spices. Give this recipe a try; it might just become your new go-to!
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a delightful and vibrant dish that brings the essence of summer right to your dinner table. This easy recipe combines juicy, marinated chicken breasts with a refreshing mango and pineapple salsa, making it perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or casual gatherings. Ready in just 10 minutes of cooking time, this tropical-inspired meal will transport you to an island paradise with every bite. Pair it with grilled peppers and your favorite sides for a complete, satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces mango-pineapple salsa
- 1/3 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken by combining it with salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper in a ziptop bag. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Toss sliced yellow bell pepper in olive oil, salt, and pepper; place in a grill basket.
- Grill the marinated chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Grill the bell peppers until tender.
- Serve the chicken topped with additional salsa and diced mango and pineapple.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (170g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
