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 cookouts, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner. Its vibrant flavors and colorful presentation will impress your guests, making it an unforgettable dish for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe can be ready in just 10 minutes of cooking time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Tropical Flavors: The combination of mango and pineapple brings a fresh, fruity taste that transports you to a tropical paradise.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it with grilled peppers or over rice; this dish adapts well to your favorite sides.
- Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Great for Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for a hassle-free dinner option that tastes fantastic.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the necessary tools at hand. Proper equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Grill basket
- Ziptop plastic bag
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Offers even heat distribution for perfectly cooked chicken with those coveted grill marks.
- Grill Basket: Keeps smaller veggies like peppers from falling through the grates while allowing them to grill perfectly.
- Ziptop Plastic Bag: Ideal for marinating chicken, ensuring every piece is evenly coated with flavor.
- Tongs: Essential for safely flipping chicken and stirring vegetables without losing juices.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 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 Garnishing
- 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 to prevent sticking.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
Step 3: Grill the Peppers
- Add sliced yellow bell peppers to a grill basket.
- Drizzle evenly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss with grilling tongs until 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 marinade bag safely after use.
- Grill chicken for about 4–5 minutes on one side with lid closed.
- Flip chicken and cook an additional 4–5 minutes until cooked through.
Step 5: Finish Cooking Peppers
- Stir peppers occasionally with tongs while grilling chicken.
- Cook until desired tenderness is reached; they may finish sooner than chicken.
Step 6: Serve
- Transfer grilled chicken to a large serving platter.
- Top each breast with additional salsa as desired.
- Evenly distribute mango and pineapple over chicken.
- Optionally sprinkle with cilantro before serving immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken!
How to Serve Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. With its juicy chicken and sweet salsa, it’s perfect for any summer gathering or casual weeknight dinner.
On a Bed of Greens
- Use fresh spinach or mixed greens as a base for a light salad.
- Top with sliced grilled chicken and mango pineapple salsa for added flavor.
Tacos or Wraps
- Serve the grilled chicken in soft tortillas or wraps.
- Add extra salsa, shredded lettuce, and avocado slices for a delicious handheld meal.
With Rice or Quinoa
- Pair the chicken with coconut rice or quinoa.
- The grains will soak up the flavors from the dish, making every bite delightful.
As Part of a Summer BBQ Platter
- Serve alongside other grilled meats and veggies.
- This creates a colorful platter that’s perfect for sharing at gatherings.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top right before serving.
- This adds an aromatic touch that enhances the tropical flavors.
With Dipping Sauces
- Offer additional dipping sauces like yogurt sauce or extra salsa.
- These can provide different flavor profiles that enhance the meal experience.
How to Perfect Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Achieving the perfect grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your grilling game!
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Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight deepens the flavors, making it juicier.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh mango and pineapple when possible; they bring brighter flavors compared to canned options.
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Check Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated properly; medium-high heat gives you nice grill marks and keeps the chicken tender.
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Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps retain juices for more flavorful bites.
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Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking times, as thickness varies. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy (165°F is ideal).
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Experiment with Salsas: Try different types of salsas to find combinations you love; each one can change the overall taste profile of the dish.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options:
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Coconut Rice: A sweet and creamy rice that complements tropical flavors perfectly.
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Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and corn tossed in olive oil make a colorful side that’s easy to prepare on the grill.
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Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw with lime dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken.
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Black Bean Salad: This protein-packed salad adds fiber and flavor; mix black beans with corn, tomatoes, and lime juice.
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Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter and lime zest adds sweetness that pairs nicely with the dish.
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Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are always a crowd-pleaser alongside grilled meals.
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Avocado Salad: A simple salad with diced avocados, tomatoes, and onions drizzled with lime for extra freshness.
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring tropical fruits like papaya and kiwi can serve as a sweet ending to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, it’s easy to make a few missteps that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
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Skipping the Marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can result in bland flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum taste.
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Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect juiciness.
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Neglecting the Grill Temperature: Grilling at too low a temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for best results.
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Ignoring Vegetable Timing: Adding peppers too late can leave them undercooked. Start grilling them alongside the chicken for even tenderness.
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Using Low-Quality Salsa: A poor-quality salsa will impact the overall flavor of your dish. Choose a fresh mango-pineapple salsa for vibrant taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and cover chicken with foil; heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water; cover and cook until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you need to marinate Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes is recommended, but overnight yields even better flavor.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and grilling.
What sides pair well with Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?
Consider serving with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad to complement this tropical dish.
Can I customize the salsa used in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different salsas like peach or traditional tomato salsa based on your preference.
Is Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken healthy?
Yes! This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and contains fruits that add vitamins and natural sweetness.
How do I know when my chicken is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F at the thickest part of the chicken breast when properly cooked.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is not only quick and easy but also offers a burst of tropical flavor that transports you straight to paradise. Its versatility allows you to customize with different salsas or side dishes. Give it a try this summer; your taste buds will thank you!
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant and juicy dish that captures the essence of summer with its tropical flavors. Ready in just 10 minutes, this quick meal features succulent chicken marinated in a zesty mango-pineapple salsa and fresh lime juice. The grilling process enhances the natural sweetness of the fruits while providing those perfect char marks. Ideal for cookouts, family dinners, or meal prep, you can serve it alongside grilled vegetables, rice, or in tacos for a delightful twist. This recipe not only brings joy to your taste buds but also presents an eye-catching dish that will impress at any gathering.
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 large yellow bell pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
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 to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Prepare the peppers: Toss sliced bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a grill basket.
- Grill: Place marinated chicken on one side of the grill and add peppers on the other. Grill chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Stir peppers occasionally until desired tenderness is reached.
- Serve: Transfer chicken to a platter; top with additional salsa, diced mango, pineapple tidbits, and optional cilantro.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 grilled chicken breast (approximately 170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
