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 any occasion craving tropical flavors. This dish combines sweet mango and pineapple with savory grilled chicken, delivering a delightful experience that transports you to a sunny beach.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 10 minutes to cook, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of mango, pineapple, and lime creates a vibrant taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with grilled vegetables or over rice for a complete meal that suits any palate.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, this chicken dish is nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Grilling Season: Enjoy the great outdoors while savoring delicious grilled food—ideal for summer BBQs!

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything cooks perfectly. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and enhance your results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Grill basket
• Ziptop plastic bag
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the ideal high heat needed for grilling chicken and veggies, giving them that lovely charred flavor.
• Grill basket: Keeps small pieces of vegetables from falling through the grill grates while allowing even cooking.
• Ziptop plastic bag: Perfect for marinating chicken as it allows all the ingredients to coat evenly without mess.
• Tongs: Essential for flipping chicken and stirring veggies without piercing them, which keeps the juices locked in.

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 Vegetables

• 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

1. To a large ziptop plastic bag, add the chicken, salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper.
2. Seal the bag tightly and smoosh around to evenly coat the chicken.
3. Place the bag in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight to marinate.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

1. Lightly oil grill grates.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Add sliced peppers to a grill basket.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Toss with tongs until evenly coated.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Place marinated chicken on one side of the grill.
2. Place grill basket with peppers on the other side of the grill.
3. Discard leftover marinade from the bag.
4. Grill chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on one side with lid closed; flip and cook another 4 to 5 minutes or until cooked through.

Step 5: Cook the Peppers

1. While chicken cooks, intermittently stir peppers with tongs until they reach desired tenderness.

Step 6: Serve Deliciously

1. Transfer grilled chicken to a serving platter.
2. Top each breast with additional salsa as desired.
3. Evenly distribute diced mango and pineapple over chicken.
4. Optionally sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving immediately.

How to Serve Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that evokes the essence of summer. It pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad can balance the rich flavors of the chicken. Toss mixed greens with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

Coconut Rice

• Serve the chicken over fluffy coconut rice for an added tropical flair. The creamy coconut complements the sweetness of the mango and pineapple.

Grilled Vegetables

• Add grilled asparagus or zucchini as side dishes. Their smokiness enhances the overall flavor profile of the meal.

Avocado Slices

• Fresh avocado slices add creaminess and richness. They also provide healthy fats, making this dish even more satisfying.

Corn on the Cob

• Sweet corn on the cob is a classic summer side. Brush with butter and season with salt for a delightful crunch.

Tropical Fruit Salad

• A refreshing fruit salad made with additional mango, pineapple, and other seasonal fruits can serve as a perfect complement to this dish.

How to Perfect Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

To achieve the ultimate grilled chicken experience, keep these tips in mind for your Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours or overnight deepens its flavor. This step is crucial for achieving that tropical taste.

• Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing your chicken on it. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees juicy and tender results.

• Let It Rest: After grilling, let your chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and enhances flavor.

• Experiment with Salsa: Try different types of salsa or toppings based on your taste preferences. Adding jalapeños or fresh herbs can give it an exciting twist!

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

Pair Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken with these delightful side dishes to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy!

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements grilled flavors wonderfully.

2. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables and herbs adds a nutritious boost. Drizzle with lemon juice for freshness.

3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw serves as a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken. Use a citrus vinaigrette for added zest.

4. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Roasted sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with tropical flavors in this dish.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide an earthy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the chicken’s marinade.

6. Cilantro Lime Rice – Fluffy rice flavored with fresh cilantro and lime juice enhances the tropical theme while being easy to prepare alongside grilling.

7. Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad tossed with veggies and Italian dressing offers a refreshing option that’s easy to prepare ahead of time.

8. Grilled Corn Salad – Combine grilled corn kernels with bell peppers, onions, and lime for a fresh salad bursting with flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can impact the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the marinade time – Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) ensures it absorbs all the delicious flavors. Don’t rush this step!

• 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 – Starting with a hot grill helps achieve those perfect grill marks and ensures even cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding chicken.

• Using frozen ingredients without thawing – Frozen fruits should be thawed and drained before use. This prevents excess moisture that can dilute flavors.

• Neglecting to check doneness – Always check if chicken is fully cooked by using a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken that can help you master this recipe.

How do I make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken spicy?

To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños into your salsa or sprinkle cayenne pepper on the chicken before grilling.

Can I use other fruits with Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?

Absolutely! Other tropical fruits like papaya or kiwi can enhance the dish’s flavor profile. Feel free to experiment!

What should I serve with Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You could also serve grilled vegetables as a side.

How do I store leftover Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is not only quick and easy but also brings a taste of summer right to your table. Its juicy flavors and vibrant colors make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite fruits or spices for a unique twist!