There is something incredibly delightful about the vibrant flavors in this Grilled Pineapple Chicken with Honey Lime Glaze Recipe. The juicy chicken breasts soaked in a lively blend of spices take on a perfect char on the grill, while the sweet and tangy honey lime pineapple glaze creates a beautiful contrast, making every bite bursting with tropical goodness. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also impressively flavorful, promising to become your next favorite recipe to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right ingredients is key, and this recipe sticks to straightforward essentials that pack a punch. Each element adds a layer—whether it’s the smoky paprika in the chicken seasoning or the fresh brightness of lime in the glaze—making this dish sing with balance and color.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Easy to grill and quick to cook while staying juicy and tender.
- Olive oil: Helps the seasoning adhere and keeps the chicken moist during grilling.
- Garlic powder: Adds subtle, savory depth without overpowering the other spices.
- Onion powder: For a gentle sweetness and umami boost that complements the chicken.
- Paprika: Brings vibrant color and a mild smokiness perfect for grilling.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Fresh pineapple (chopped): The star of the glaze, offering juicy sweetness and tropical freshness.
- Honey: Sweetens and glazes the chicken beautifully while caramelizing on the grill.
- Lime juice: Brightens the glaze with zesty acidity and balance.
- Soy sauce: Adds a hint of savory richness to the glaze.
- Fresh cilantro (chopped): Finishes the dish with herbal vibrancy and color.
How to Make Grilled Pineapple Chicken with Honey Lime Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Grill and Chicken
Start by heating your grill to medium-high, making sure the grates are clean and well oiled to prevent chicken from sticking. Meanwhile, trim any excess fat or gristle from your boneless, skinless chicken breasts to ensure they’re ready for perfect grilling. This simple prep step goes a long way in guaranteeing tender, evenly cooked chicken.
Step 2: Seasoning the Chicken
Mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl for an easy yet flavorful rub. Slather this evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts, allowing the spices to infuse the meat. Letting the chicken rest with the rub for at least five minutes lets the flavors settle in and intensify before hitting the grill.
Step 3: Make the Honey Lime Pineapple Glaze
While the chicken marinates, chop fresh pineapple into bite-sized chunks. Combine it with honey, lime juice, soy sauce, and chopped cilantro in a bowl, stirring well until everything melds into a vibrant glaze. This mixture will later be simmered to a luscious thickness that clings beautifully to the grilled chicken.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Place your seasoned chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side, checking with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The grill marks and smoky aroma will make your kitchen feel like a tropical paradise in no time.
Step 5: Simmer the Pineapple Glaze
While the chicken grills, pour the pineapple glaze into a small saucepan over medium heat. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step intensifies the sweetness and melds the tangy lime and savory soy sauce into one irresistible sauce.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
When the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a clean plate and generously brush with the warm honey lime pineapple glaze. Don’t hold back—this luscious coating will elevate the juicy grilled chicken into something downright unforgettable. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an added touch of brightness and a pop of color.
How to Serve Grilled Pineapple Chicken with Honey Lime Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is your go-to garnish here, adding a fresh, herbal note that amplifies the tropical vibes. You could also sprinkle some thinly sliced green onions or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a touch of heat. A wedge of lime on the side invites guests to add their own zesty twist.
Side Dishes
This grilled pineapple chicken pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides like coconut rice, grilled asparagus, or a crisp green salad with avocado and cherry tomatoes. The key is to complement the sweet and tangy glaze without overwhelming it. A simple quinoa salad with herbs or a cold cucumber slaw also works wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, serve the chicken sliced atop a bed of fluffy rice or even tucked into warm tortillas for a tropical chicken taco. Drizzle extra honey lime glaze over everything for an Instagram-worthy look. For gatherings, arrange grilled pineapple slices alongside the chicken to echo the glaze’s flavors and offer vibrant plating.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your fresh grilled pineapple chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken separately from the pineapple glaze. Wrap the chicken breasts tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to two months. Keep the glaze in a separate freezer-safe container to maintain its fresh flavor when reheated.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken gently in the oven or on the stovetop to avoid drying it out. Warm the glaze separately in a small saucepan over low heat and brush over the chicken once hot. This will revive the beautiful shine and tropical flavor that makes this recipe so addictive.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and stay tender even if slightly overcooked. Just adjust your grilling time accordingly, as thighs may take a little longer to reach the ideal internal temperature.
What can I substitute for fresh pineapple?
If fresh pineapple isn’t available, canned pineapple chunks (preferably packed in juice, not syrup) will work fine. Just drain them well before chopping, and expect a slightly less bright flavor in the glaze.
Is soy sauce necessary in the glaze?
While soy sauce adds a lovely umami depth and balances the sweetness, you can substitute it with tamari for gluten-free or coconut aminos if you want a soy-free option. The glaze remains delicious either way!
How spicy is this recipe?
This particular Grilled Pineapple Chicken with Honey Lime Glaze Recipe is mild and very approachable. If you enjoy spiciness, consider adding finely chopped jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the glaze or seasoning mix.
Can I make this recipe indoors?
Definitely! Use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet on the stovetop to get nice searing marks and caramelization. Just be sure to keep your kitchen well ventilated to handle any smoke from the cooking process.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Pineapple Chicken with Honey Lime Glaze Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a burst of tropical sunshine to your table any day of the week. Its simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for cooks of all levels, while each bite delivers a satisfying balance of sweet, tangy, smoky, and savory notes. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and watch it become a new favorite in your rotation!
Print
Grilled Pineapple Chicken with Honey Lime Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 12m
- Total Time: 0h 27m
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Grilled Pineapple Chicken recipe features tender, boneless chicken breasts seasoned with a flavorful spice rub and topped with a tangy, sweet pineapple glaze. Perfect for a quick and healthy dinner, the chicken is grilled to juicy perfection and complemented by a glaze made from fresh pineapple, honey, lime juice, soy sauce, and cilantro.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pineapple Glaze
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on a clean cutting board and trim any excess fat or gristle.
- Make the Seasoning Mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing well.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Pineapple Glaze: Chop pineapple into bite-sized chunks and in another bowl, mix pineapple, honey, lime juice, soy sauce, and fresh cilantro until well combined.
- Grill the Chicken: Place chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Simmer the Glaze: While grilling, transfer the pineapple glaze to a small saucepan over medium heat, bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened slightly.
- Glaze the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the grill, brush generously with the pineapple glaze, and optionally serve with extra glaze on the side.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional fresh cilantro for added flavor and color and serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure the grill grates are well-oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Use a meat thermometer to accurately check doneness for safety and juiciness.
- The glaze can be made ahead of time and reheated gently before serving.
- For extra zest, add a pinch of chili flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or a fresh green salad.
