Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

‘re on a TROPICAL island! Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is the ultimate summer dish that brings a burst of flavor to any gathering. With its sweet and tangy marinade, this recipe is perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or simply enjoying a warm evening outdoors. The combination of juicy chicken with mango and pineapple creates a delightful taste sensation that is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of mango-pineapple salsa and lime juice creates a tropical taste that excites your palate.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with grilled veggies or serve over rice for a complete meal that suits various dietary preferences.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with lean protein and fresh produce, this recipe makes a nutritious addition to your dinner rotation.
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for an even more flavorful experience when you’re ready to grill.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are the key tools you’ll need to prepare Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Grill basket
• Large ziptop plastic bag
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on your chicken.
• Grill basket: Great for holding vegetables securely while grilling, preventing them from falling through the grates.
• Ziptop plastic bag: Useful for marinating chicken evenly; it allows flavors to infuse without fuss.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping the chicken and stirring the vegetables while grilling safely.

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

1. To a large ziptop plastic bag, add the chicken, salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper. Seal tightly.
2. Smoosh around gently to ensure all pieces are coated evenly.
3. Place bag in fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

1. Lightly oil grill grates using a paper towel dipped in olive oil.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Peppers

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 and Peppers

1. Place marinated chicken on one side of the grill.
2. Position the grill basket with peppers on the other side.
3. Discard marinade bag after placing chicken on grill.
4. Grill each side of chicken for about 4-5 minutes with lid closed, until cooked through.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

1. Stir peppers intermittently while they cook alongside chicken; they may finish faster.
2. Once done, transfer chicken onto a large serving platter.

Step 6: Serve

1. Top each grilled chicken breast with additional salsa as desired.
2. Evenly distribute diced mango and pineapple over the top.
3. 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 a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use fresh mixed greens, such as arugula or spinach, as a base. The chicken’s sweetness pairs wonderfully with a tangy vinaigrette.

With Coconut Rice

• Serve the chicken alongside fluffy coconut rice. The creamy texture complements the tropical flavors beautifully.

In Tacos

• Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in soft corn tortillas. Top with fresh salsa, avocado slices, and lime for a fun twist.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with an assortment of grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn. This adds color and nutrition to your plate.

As a Salad

• Dice the chicken and mix it into a refreshing salad with mango, pineapple, and cilantro. Drizzle with lime juice for an extra zing.

With a Dipping Sauce

• Offer a side of spicy yogurt or avocado dip for guests to enjoy with their chicken. It adds an exciting flavor contrast.

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How to Perfect Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

To achieve the best results when making Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, follow these handy tips.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve those perfect grill marks.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy.
• Customize Your Salsa: Feel free to personalize your salsa with additional herbs or spices for extra flavor.
• Experiment with Spice: If you enjoy heat, consider adding jalapeños to your marinade for an added kick.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

Complement your Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken with these delicious side dishes that enhance its tropical flair.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and grilled until charred adds sweetness that pairs well with the chicken.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley offers freshness and crunch.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots provides a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs makes for a mild backdrop that lets the chicken shine.
5. Black Bean Salad: A zesty black bean salad featuring lime dressing brings protein and flavor without overpowering.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and texture while being easy to prepare alongside grilling.
7. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar balances out the rich flavors of grilled chicken.
8. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread serves as a simple yet satisfying side that can soak up any leftover salsa juices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Over-marinating the chicken: While marinating is essential for flavor, leaving the chicken in the marinade for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for a maximum of 4 hours for best results.
• Ignoring grill temperature: Cooking on too high or too low heat can affect the cooking time and texture. Preheat your grill to medium-high to achieve that perfect char without drying out the chicken.
• Skipping the oil on the grill: Not oiling your grill grates can cause sticking and tearing of your chicken. Always lightly oil grates before grilling to facilitate easy flipping and removal.
• Not letting chicken rest: Cutting into the chicken right after grilling can cause juices to run out, making it dry. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
• Neglecting side dishes: Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken pairs well with sides like grilled vegetables or rice. Don’t skip these; they complement the dish beautifully.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth. Cook covered until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating and grilling.

What is the best way to serve Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?

This dish is best served with grilled vegetables or over rice, allowing the flavors of mango and pineapple to shine through.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add other fruits or spices. Jalapeños can add heat, while avocado provides creaminess.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Marinate the chicken a day ahead of grilling for even more flavor.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is an extraordinary dish that combines tropical flavors with hearty protein. Its versatility allows you to serve it at summer barbecues or cozy dinners alike. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients for an even more personalized experience!