Aloha Grilled Pineapple Chicken combines the savory flavors of marinated chicken with the natural sweetness of grilled pineapple, creating a tropical-inspired dish perfect for summer cookouts. The marinade, featuring ketchup, soy sauce, and brown sugar, infuses the chicken with a rich, tangy flavor, while the pineapple provides a refreshing contrast.
Aloha Grilled Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients
- Chicken Marinade:
- 1 ½ pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Grilled Pineapple:
- 1 fresh pineapple, cleaned, cored, and sliced into about 8 one-inch wide long spears
- Garnish:
- Thinly sliced green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large zip-top plastic bag, combine the chicken breasts, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, lemon juice, ground ginger, salt, and pepper.
- Seal the bag and massage to evenly coat the chicken with the marinade.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best flavor.
- Prepare the Grill:
- Lightly oil the grill grates and preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken and Pineapple:
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dunk the pineapple spears into the marinade bag to coat them, then place them on the grill alongside the chicken. Discard the marinade bag.
- Grill the chicken for about 5 minutes on the first side with the lid closed. Flip and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes on the second side with the lid closed, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Rotate the pineapple spears every 2 to 3 minutes to ensure all sides are evenly grilled and any bacteria from the marinade is killed.
- Serve:
- Optionally garnish the chicken with thinly sliced green onions.
- Serve the grilled chicken immediately alongside the pineapple spears.
Description and Tips
Tips for Best Results:
- Marinating Time: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. If short on time, ensure at least a 30-minute marinade.
- Grill Preparation: Lightly oiling the grill grates prevents sticking and ensures easy flipping.
- Grilling Pineapple: Rotate pineapple spears frequently to caramelize the natural sugars evenly and to ensure thorough cooking.
- Marinade Safety: Discard the marinade bag after using it to coat the chicken and pineapple to avoid cross-contamination.
- Garnishing: Adding thinly sliced green onions provides a fresh, crisp finish that complements the grilled flavors.
This Aloha Grilled Pineapple Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and savory, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. Enjoy the taste of the tropics right from your grill!
Leave a Reply