Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 4 · Technique: Grilling · Storage: Keeps in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
This grilled pineapple teriyaki chicken recipe combines marinated chicken breasts with caramelized pineapple for a flavor-packed dish perfect for festive gatherings.
As the vibrant fall leaves give way to the holidays in New York City, I find myself daydreaming of the comforting flavors of grilled pineapple teriyaki chicken. The holidays are not just about rich, heavy foods; they also beckon for bright, refreshing dishes that remind us of sunny BBQs. This recipe beautifully balances the sweet tang of grilled pineapple with the savory depth of teriyaki sauce, making it a fantastic choice for Thanksgiving gatherings or a Christmas dinner that reconnects us with the joy of grilled flavors.
A Festive Grilling Delight
This recipe is a celebration of flavors that not only satiate your taste buds but also fills your home with delightful aromas, setting the perfect mood for your holiday festivities.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors makes for an irresistible dish.
- Grilling brings out the natural sweetness in both chicken and pineapple.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings, adding a festive twist to your table.
- Quick and easy to prepare, with a marinating time that enhances flavor.
- Leftovers can be repurposed into salads or wraps for a delightful lunch.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your grilled pineapple teriyaki chicken:
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pineapple
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and sliced into rings
How to Make Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering grilled pineapple teriyaki chicken that will impress your guests.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, minced ginger, and garlic. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple
While the chicken marinates, slice your pineapple into rings about half an inch thick. This will help achieve the perfect caramelization on the grill.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken and Pineapple
Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the hot grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, brushing with the reserved marinade. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has beautiful grill marks.
Step 5: Add the Pineapple
During the last few minutes of cooking, add the pineapple rings to the grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are slightly caramelized and aromatic.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the grilled chicken topped with the pineapple rings, garnished with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overcrowding the Grill: Give your chicken and pineapple plenty of space. If they're too close together, they'll steam instead of grill.
- Skipping the Marinade: Forgo marinating, and you'll miss out on the depth of flavor that comes from letting the chicken soak in that teriyaki goodness.
- Not Checking Temperatures: Avoid the guesswork! Always check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to prevent undercooking.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the entire dish. Look for vibrant, juicy pineapples and premium teriyaki sauces.
- Experiment with Veggies: Consider adding bell peppers or zucchini to the grill for a colorful, nutritious side.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve this dish with coconut rice or a fresh green salad to balance the sweetness.
Variations:
- Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option.
- Try using different fruits like peaches or mangoes instead of pineapple.
- Use a homemade teriyaki sauce for a personalized touch.
How to Serve:
- Top the chicken with grilled pineapple rings for an inviting presentation.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Serve alongside coconut rice or a refreshing salad for a balanced meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken up to 4 hours in advance for deeper flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: Reheat by grilling or baking until warmed through.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Creating this grilled pineapple teriyaki chicken taught me how the balance of sweet and savory can truly transform a dish, especially during the festive season. It's a vivid reminder that cooking is not just about the food; it's about the flavors, aromas, and memories we create around the table.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with pineapple
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~300 calories · 30g protein · 20g carbs · 10g fat
Recipe by:
Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, minced ginger, and garlic. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- While the chicken marinates, slice your pineapple into rings about half an inch thick.
- Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the hot grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, brushing with the reserved marinade until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- During the last few minutes of cooking, add the pineapple rings to the grill. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are slightly caramelized.
- Serve the grilled chicken topped with the pineapple rings, garnished with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but the cooking time will be longer. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F.
2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce and ensure the sesame oil is also gluten-free.
3. Can I grill the chicken indoors?
Yes, you can use a grill pan on your stove to grill the chicken if outdoor grilling is not an option. Just make sure to ventilate your kitchen properly.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Allow leftovers to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to three days.
5. What can I serve with grilled pineapple teriyaki chicken?
This dish pairs well with coconut rice, a fresh green salad, or grilled vegetables for a colorful and nutritious meal.
