Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Why Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken?
The combination of grilled chicken and pineapple is a match made in heaven. The sweetness of the pineapple balances the savory, slightly tangy flavors of the teriyaki sauce, while grilling adds a delicious smoky char. This dish is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for anyone who loves tropical, sweet-savory combinations. Plus, it’s great for feeding a crowd or making ahead for meal prep.
When grilling chicken and pineapple together, the key is even cooking. While you can grill everything directly on the grates, using Braize Adjustable Grill Basket can help keep the pineapple and chicken secure. Grill Basket allow for easy flipping, and a grill basket keeps everything intact, ensuring even caramelization on the pineapple and perfectly cooked chicken. It’s a handy tool to have for keeping the small items from falling through the grates, the adjustable closure makes sure all your ingredients stay in place!
Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings or chunks
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening sauce)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Preparing the Teriyaki Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. This simple yet flavorful marinade is going to infuse the chicken with sweet and savory notes that pair perfectly with the grilled pineapple. Set aside about 1/4 cup of the marinade to use as a glaze later.
Marinating the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a zip-lock bag and pour the remaining marinade over them. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, marinate for a few hours or overnight. This will help the chicken soak up all those delicious teriyaki flavors.
Prepping the Pineapple
While the chicken marinates, prepare the pineapple. Slice the pineapple into rings or chunks, whichever you prefer. You can grill the pineapple directly alongside the chicken, or if you’re using skewers, thread the pineapple and chicken alternately for easy flipping on the grill.
Prepping Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. The key here is to get the grill hot enough to caramelize the pineapple without drying out the chicken.
Grilling the Chicken and Pineapple
Place the marinated chicken and pineapple slices directly on the grill grates or in a Adjustable Grill Basket. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Flip the pineapple after about 3-4 minutes, grilling until caramelized with nice grill marks.
While grilling, baste the chicken with the reserved teriyaki glaze during the last few minutes of cooking to add a glossy, flavorful finish.
This Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken recipe is one of my go-to dishes for summer BBQs. The combination of sweet, smoky pineapple with the juicy, teriyaki-marinated chicken always hits the spot. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels light, fresh, and full of flavor—perfect for warm-weather grilling!
Serving Suggestions
Once the chicken and pineapple are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken and serve it with the grilled pineapple, topped with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for garnish. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
FAQs
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Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
- Yes, but fresh pineapple has a firmer texture and better flavor for grilling. If using canned, make sure to drain it well and pat it dry before grilling.
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Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them a great option for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may need a bit longer on the grill.
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What can I serve with Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken?
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a light cucumber salad to balance the flavors.
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How can I make the teriyaki sauce thicker?
- If you want a thicker glaze, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the sauce while it simmers, stirring until it thickens.
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What other proteins can I use with this marinade?
- This marinade works great with pork, shrimp, or even tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Ready to add some tropical flair to your grill?
Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a touch of smoky goodness from the grill. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and great for any occasion.
Try this Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken recipe and share your creations with us on social media @CookingWithBraize. We’d love to see how you enjoy this delicious, sweet-savory combo!