This Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is all about bright flavors! Juicy chicken pairs perfectly with sweet mango and tangy pineapple for a tasty dish.
Grilling it adds a fun smokiness! I love serving it with rice or a fresh salad for a delicious summer meal. Who knew healthy could taste so good? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey cutlets can work, or for more flavor, try using chicken thighs instead.
Pineapple and Mango: Fresh is best for vibrant flavor, but canned fruit in juice (not syrup) can be a time-saver. If you’re not a fan of mango, peaches are a great alternative that still brings sweetness.
Bell Peppers: Red pepper adds color and sweetness, but you can use any bell pepper. Try swapping in zucchini or asparagus if you prefer different veggies on the grill.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds sweetness and spice. You can substitute with a mix of honey and a pinch of red pepper flakes if it’s not available.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to ensure it turns out juicy and flavorful:
- Start by preheating your grill to medium-high. It’s important for great grill marks.
- Season the chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.
- Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes. Don’t flip it too often; let it get those nice grill marks!
- Check the internal temperature – it should reach 165°F (74°C). If you have a meat thermometer, it’s a useful tool here.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This keeps it juicy as it gives time for the juices to redistribute.
How to Make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for seasoning)
For the Salsa:
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 cup mango, diced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For Grilling:
- 2 cups bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced
- Olive oil (for tossing bell peppers)
- Salt and pepper (for seasoning bell peppers)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a refreshing grilled mango pineapple chicken ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mango-Pineapple Salsa:
In a large bowl, combine the diced pineapple, mango, red bell pepper, chopped cilantro, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good mix to create a tasty mango-pineapple salsa. Set this aside for now to let the flavors blend!
2. Prepare the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a little olive oil to keep them moist while cooking.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts on it. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked and have lovely grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
4. Grill the Bell Peppers:
While the chicken is grilling, toss the sliced bell peppers in a bowl with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them on the grill alongside the chicken. Grill for about 5-6 minutes until the peppers are tender and slightly charred.
5. Rest and Serve:
When the chicken is finished cooking, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes so the juices can settle. Then, slice the chicken into strips.
6. Topping and Presentation:
On each plate, serve the grilled chicken topped with the delicious mango-pineapple salsa and the grilled bell peppers on the side. If you like, sprinkle on some extra chopped cilantro for a fresh touch!
7. Enjoy!
Dig into your vibrant grilled mango pineapple chicken! It’s healthy, tasty, and full of tropical goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before grilling. The best way to thaw chicken is to place it in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also thaw it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Sweet Chili Sauce?
If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, you can mix equal parts of honey and soy sauce for a similar sweet and savory flavor. Alternatively, a combination of ketchup and Sriracha (to taste) can also work well as a substitute!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, avoid adding salsa until you’re ready to eat. You can reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, or enjoy it cold on salads or in wraps!
Can I Prepare the Salsa in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the mango-pineapple salsa a day ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container to let the flavors meld. Stir it well before serving, as the juices may settle a bit!
