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 even meal prep. This dish combines sweet mango and pineapple with savory grilled chicken, creating a delightful flavor explosion that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Tropical Flavor: The combination of mango and pineapple offers a refreshing taste that transports you to an island paradise.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, in tacos, or alongside a fresh salad for different meal experiences.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fruits, this dish fits well into a balanced diet.
- Grill-Friendly: Ideal for outdoor gatherings or family BBQs, bringing friends and family together.
Tools and Preparation
To make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken easily and efficiently, having the right tools can make all the difference.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Ziptop plastic bag
- Grill basket
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor and perfect grill marks on your chicken.
- Ziptop plastic bag: Makes marinating easy by ensuring even coverage of flavors without mess.
- Grill basket: Helps keep veggies secure while grilling, preventing them from falling through the grates.
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 Topping
- 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 it around to evenly coat the chicken.
- Place the bag in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
- Lightly oil grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Peppers
- Add sliced yellow bell peppers to a grill basket.
- Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then toss with tongs to evenly coat.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken and Peppers
- Place marinated chicken on one side of the grill.
- Place the grill basket with peppers on the other side.
- Discard any remaining marinade. Grill chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on one side with lid closed.
- Flip chicken and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until fully cooked through.
Step 5: Check Peppers
- While chicken cooks, stir peppers occasionally until they reach your desired level of tenderness; they may finish earlier than the chicken.
Step 6: Serve
- Once cooked, place chicken on a large serving platter.
- Top each breast with additional salsa as desired.
- Evenly distribute diced mango and pineapple over the top.
- Optionally sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken!
How to Serve Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to create a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy.
On a Bed of Greens
- Fresh Spinach: This leafy green adds a nutritious crunch and pairs well with the tropical flavors of the chicken.
- Arugula: With its peppery taste, arugula complements the sweetness of the mango and pineapple perfectly.
In Tacos
- Corn Tortillas: Wrap the grilled chicken with fresh salsa and avocado for a tasty taco experience.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves as a wrap filled with chicken, salsa, and diced mango.
With Rice or Quinoa
- Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice dish enhances the tropical flavor profile of the chicken.
- Coconut Quinoa: A slightly sweet and nutty quinoa preparation that works beautifully alongside the grilled chicken.
As Sandwiches
- Toasted Buns: Place the grilled chicken on toasted buns with extra salsa for a quick and satisfying sandwich.
- Avocado Toast: Top whole-grain toast with sliced chicken, fresh avocado, and salsa for an open-faced delight.
How to Perfect Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
To achieve the best results when making Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, follow these tips for juicy and flavorful chicken every time.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- Use High Heat: Preheating your grill ensures that the chicken sears well, locking in juices and flavors.
- Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling allows juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Garnishing with cilantro or parsley before serving adds freshness and vibrancy to your dish.
- Experiment with Salsas: Try different types of salsas, such as peach or papaya, to switch up flavors while keeping it tropical.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Pairing side dishes with Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers enhance the summer vibe. Simply toss them in olive oil and grill alongside your chicken.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn drizzled with lime butter makes a refreshing addition. Grill until tender for that smoky flavor.
- Mango Salsa Salad: A side salad made from diced mango, red onion, and cilantro provides freshness that complements the main dish beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the sweetness of the chicken. Use a vinegar-based dressing for added zing.
- Pineapple Fried Rice: This tropical twist on fried rice features pineapple chunks, peas, and carrots for an exciting flavor pairing.
- Cucumber Salad: Lightly dressed cucumber salad offers crispness that contrasts nicely with savory grilled chicken. Add lime juice for extra zest.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries provide sweetness and texture that pairs well with grilled flavors.
- Black Bean Salad: A hearty black bean salad mixed with corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing adds protein and complements your meal perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes and how to prevent them.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).
- Skipping the marinating step: Marinating adds flavor and tenderness. Always allow the chicken to sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes.
- Using low-quality salsa: The salsa is a key ingredient. Choose a fresh, quality mango-pineapple salsa for the best taste.
- Not preheating the grill: A hot grill ensures proper searing and prevents sticking. Preheat your grill before adding the chicken.
- Ignoring vegetable prep: Properly slice and season your vegetables for even cooking. Larger pieces may take longer to cook.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat until warm, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals until heated through, usually about 1-2 minutes.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, occasionally flipping until thoroughly heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken.
What does Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken taste like?
This dish offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors with juicy grilled chicken complemented by tropical fruit notes.
Can I customize the salsa used in Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any favorite salsa or create your own with fresh ingredients for a unique twist.
How do I ensure my Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken stays juicy?
Marinating the chicken properly and not overcooking it are key factors in keeping it juicy and flavorful.
What sides pair well with Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?
Consider serving it with grilled vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a refreshing summer meal.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant dish that brings tropical flavors right to your table. It’s quick to prepare and highly customizable—perfect for summer gatherings! Try adding different fruits or spices to make it uniquely yours.
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
Description
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the tropics right to your dinner table. Ready in just 10 minutes, this easy recipe features juicy grilled chicken marinated in a delicious blend of mango-pineapple salsa and lime, ensuring every bite is a burst of sweet and savory flavor. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or meal prep—offering versatility that allows you to serve it over rice, in tacos, or alongside a fresh salad. With its healthy ingredients and quick cooking time, this dish is sure to become a favorite for outdoor BBQs or casual weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 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
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken by combining it with salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and pepper in a ziptop bag. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Prepare sliced yellow bell peppers in a grill basket with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill marinated chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Grill peppers until tender, stirring occasionally.
- Serve chicken topped with additional salsa and diced fruits as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
