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 Mango Pineapple Chicken is perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal. The blend of sweet mango and pineapple paired with savory chicken creates an unforgettable taste experience. This dish brings a burst of tropical flavors to your table, making it ideal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes to cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Fresh Tropical Flavors: The combination of mango and pineapple salsa adds a refreshing twist that will transport you to a sunny beach.
- Versatile Meal: Whether it’s served at a barbecue or as a simple dinner, this dish fits perfectly into any setting.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this meal is both satisfying and healthy.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the salsa or add your favorite vegetables for a personal touch.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to prepare this delicious dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Grill basket
- Ziptop plastic bag
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks on the chicken.
- Grill basket: Perfect for grilling vegetables evenly without them falling through the grates.
- Ziptop plastic bag: Ideal for marinating chicken thoroughly without any mess.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 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)
For the Grilled Peppers
- 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)
For Serving
- 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, 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: Preheat the Grill
- Lightly oil grill grates.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Peppers
- Add sliced yellow bell peppers to a grill basket.
- Drizzle evenly with olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper; toss using tongs to coat well.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
- Place marinated chicken on one side of the grill.
- Add the grill basket with peppers on the other side.
- Discard the bag with marinade.
- Grill chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on one side with lid closed; flip it over.
- Grill for another 4 to 5 minutes until cooked through.
Step 5: Cook the Peppers
- While chicken cooks, intermittently stir peppers with tongs.
- Cook until they reach desired tenderness; note they may finish faster than chicken.
Step 6: Serve
- Place grilled chicken on a serving platter.
- Top each breast with additional salsa as desired.
- Evenly place diced mango and pineapple on top.
- Optionally sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving immediately.
Enjoy your delightful Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken!
How to Serve Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Serving Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a delightful experience that can transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. Here are some creative ways to present this flavorful dish.
Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
- Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an added burst of flavor and color.
- Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side to enhance the zesty flavor when squeezed over the chicken.
Pair with Refreshing Salads
- Tropical Fruit Salad: Combine diced mango, pineapple, and berries for a refreshing side.
- Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with lime vinaigrette complements the chicken well.
Serve with Grains
- Coconut Rice: The sweetness of coconut rice pairs perfectly with the grilled chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad mixed with veggies adds a nutritious twist.
Create Tacos or Wraps
- Chicken Tacos: Shred the grilled chicken and serve in corn tortillas topped with salsa and avocado.
- Wraps: Use lettuce leaves or tortillas to wrap slices of chicken with salsa and veggies for a fun meal option.
How to Perfect Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Getting the perfect flavor and texture from Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve grilling perfection.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavors significantly.
- Preheat Grill Properly: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat for even cooking and nice grill marks.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Let It Rest: Allow grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving; this keeps it juicy.
- Experiment with Salsas: Try different types of mango-pineapple salsas for varied flavor profiles.
- Add Heat: If you like spice, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce to your marinade.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
To complement your Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, consider these delicious side dishes that will enhance your meal’s tropical vibe.
- Grilled Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and onions adds color and flavor when grilled alongside your chicken.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with lime butter makes for a classic summer side.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast that balances the dish’s sweetness.
- Black Bean Salad: This protein-rich salad, made with black beans, corn, and avocado, offers a refreshing taste.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until tender add earthy sweetness that pairs well with tropical flavors.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs complements the grilled chicken nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken reduces flavor. Always allow at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, for the best taste.
- Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too much chicken on the grill can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure there’s enough space between each piece for proper heat circulation.
- Not Preheating the Grill: Grilling on a cold surface can result in sticking and longer cooking times. Preheat your grill to medium-high before adding the chicken.
- Ignoring Internal Temperature: Cooking chicken without checking its doneness can lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality salsa or frozen fruits can dull flavors. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible.
- Not Letting It Rest: Cutting the chicken right off the grill can dry it out. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in juices.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and safety.
Freezing Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken on a baking sheet covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat in intervals of 1 minute until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, cover, and heat until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken that might help you.
How do I make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken more flavorful?
To enhance flavors, consider adding spices like cumin or chili powder to the marinade. Fresh herbs can also boost freshness.
Can I use other fruits instead of mango and pineapple?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other tropical fruits like peaches or papayas for a unique twist on this grilled dish.
What sides pair well with Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?
Serve this dish with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal that’s perfect for summer dining.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is great for meal prep. Just store in individual containers and reheat as needed throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is not only quick and easy but also bursting with tropical flavors that transport you straight to paradise. This dish is versatile; you can customize it by adding your favorite fruits or adjusting spices. Give it a try at your next summer gathering!
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is the ultimate summer dish that combines the vibrant flavors of tropical fruits with succulent chicken. This quick and easy recipe takes just 10 minutes to cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. The juicy chicken, marinated in a delightful blend of mango salsa and lime juice, transports your taste buds to a sunny beach with every bite. Serve it with grilled peppers and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces Island Salsa (or favorite mango-pineapple salsa)
- 1/3 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 large yellow bell pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for peppers
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
- 4 ounces Island Salsa (for serving)
- 1/2 cup diced mango
- 1/3 cup pineapple tidbits
- 2 to 4 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional for garnishing)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a ziptop plastic bag, combine chicken, salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper. Seal and shake to coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- Preheat the Grill: Lightly oil grill grates and preheat to medium-high heat.
- Prepare Peppers: Toss sliced bell peppers in olive oil, salt, and pepper in a grill basket.
- Grill Chicken: Place marinated chicken on one side of the grill and the basket of peppers on the other side. Discard marinade. Grill chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Cook Peppers: Stir peppers occasionally until they reach desired tenderness.
- Serve: Place grilled chicken on a platter, top with additional salsa, diced mango, pineapple, and optional cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
