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! This Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is perfect for summer gatherings, casual dinners, or even a quick weeknight meal. Its vibrant flavors and easy preparation will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 10 minutes to cook, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Tropical Flavors: The combination of mango and pineapple salsa adds a refreshing twist that brightens up your meal.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, salad, or grilled veggies to create a complete meal that suits various tastes.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this recipe is both delicious and nutritious.
- Family-Friendly: The sweet and savory flavors are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make the cooking process smooth, gather your tools ahead of time. Proper equipment can elevate your grilling experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Ziptop plastic bag
- Grill basket
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor that defines grilled dishes.
- Ziptop plastic bag: Ideal for marinating chicken evenly without making a mess.
- Grill basket: Keeps smaller veggies like peppers secure while allowing them to grill perfectly.
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 squish it around to evenly coat the chicken.
- Place the bag in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
- Lightly oil grill grates.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Peppers
- Add the sliced yellow bell pepper to a grill basket.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss with tongs until evenly coated.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
- Place marinated chicken on one side of the grill; put the grill basket with peppers on the other side.
- Discard any remaining marinade from the bag.
- Grill chicken for about 4–5 minutes on one side with lid closed.
- Flip chicken and cook an additional 4–5 minutes until fully cooked through.
Step 5: Cook the Peppers
- While chicken cooks, stir peppers occasionally with tongs.
- Monitor closely as they may finish cooking faster than chicken.
Step 6: Serve
- Transfer grilled chicken to a large serving platter.
- Top each breast with additional salsa if desired.
- Evenly distribute diced mango and pineapple over chicken.
- Optionally sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving immediately.
Enjoy your flavorful journey with this Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken recipe!
How to Serve Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Serve with Fresh Salad
- A crisp, light salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory flavors of the chicken.
Accompany with Rice
- Fluffy jasmine or coconut rice makes an excellent base for the chicken, soaking up the juices and salsa for added flavor in every bite.
Top with Extra Salsa
- Drizzling additional mango-pineapple salsa over the chicken adds an extra burst of freshness and color to your plate.
Garnish with Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a pop of color and a burst of herbal flavor that complements the sweetness of the dish.
Serve with Grilled Vegetables
- Add grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant on the side for a colorful and healthy addition that balances out the meal.
How to Perfect Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
To achieve perfectly grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, consider these tips to elevate your dish even further.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances its flavor and tenderness significantly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill seals in juices and creates those beautiful grill marks that add to both presentation and flavor.
- Let it Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy before slicing.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like cumin or paprika for an extra kick that complements the fruity flavors.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on thickness, adjust cooking time slightly; thinner pieces will cook faster than thicker ones.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:
- Coconut Rice: This aromatic rice dish complements tropical flavors perfectly while offering a creamy texture.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter makes for a sweet and satisfying side.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lime dressing adds a nutritious touch.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the chicken.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds elegance and a pop of green to your plate.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring sweetness and crunch, perfect alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the marinade time – Marinating chicken is crucial for flavor. Ensure you let it sit for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight.
- Not preheating the grill – A preheated grill ensures even cooking. Always preheat for about 10-15 minutes before adding the chicken and veggies.
- Overcrowding the grill – Give your chicken and veggies space. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steaming instead of grilling.
- Ignoring internal temperature – Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure safety and optimal juiciness.
- Neglecting resting time – Allowing grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes helps retain juices. Don’t skip this step for the best texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container.
- It can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave – Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil, and warm chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken.
How do I make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken spicy?
You can add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to your marinade for an extra kick. Adjust according to your spice preference.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?
Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating and grilling for even cooking.
What side dishes pair well with Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?
Grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad complement this dish beautifully.
Is Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken healthy?
Absolutely! This recipe is high in protein and packed with vitamins from the mangoes and pineapples while being lower in carbs.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is not only quick and easy but also bursting with tropical flavors that transport you to a sunny paradise. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level. It’s perfect for summer meals or any time you crave something fresh and delightful!
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant and delicious dish that transports you to a tropical paradise with every bite. This quick and easy recipe takes just 10 minutes to cook, making it ideal for busy weeknights or summer gatherings. The juicy chicken, marinated in a flavorful mango-pineapple salsa, is complemented by grilled bell peppers, offering a refreshing and healthy meal option. Perfectly suited for family dinners or casual get-togethers, this dish promises to impress both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces mango-pineapple salsa (or your favorite)
- 1/3 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 large yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a ziptop bag, combine chicken, salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill: Lightly oil the grates and heat to medium-high.
- Prepare the peppers: Toss sliced bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a grill basket.
- Grill the chicken: Place on one side of the grill; add peppers on the other side. Grill chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Serve: Transfer chicken to a platter, top with additional salsa and diced mango/pineapple; garnish with cilantro if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
