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Aloha Grilled Pineapple Chicken Recipe

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4.2 from 4 reviews

This Aloha Grilled Pineapple Chicken recipe combines tender marinated chicken breasts with sweet and tangy grilled pineapple spears for a delicious tropical meal. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful blend of ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, lemon juice, ginger, and spices, then grilled alongside pineapple to infuse the dish with fresh, smoky flavors. Perfect for a summer barbecue or an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe yields juicy, flavorful chicken with a hint of sweetness and tropical flair.

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

  • 1 1/2 pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Grill Ingredients

  • 1 fresh pineapple (cleaned, cored, and sliced into about 8 one-inch wide long spears)
  • Thinly sliced green onions (optional for garnishing)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large zip-top plastic bag, combine the chicken breasts with ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, lemon juice, ginger, kosher salt, and black pepper. Seal the bag and massage the marinade around the chicken thoroughly to coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
  2. Prepare the Grill: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it is hot and ready for cooking.
  3. Grill Chicken and Pineapple: Remove chicken from the marinade bag, dunk the pineapple spears briefly into the remaining marinade, then place both chicken breasts and pineapple spears onto the grill. Discard the marinade bag after this step to avoid contamination.
  4. Cook and Turn: Grill the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on the first side with the grill lid closed. Flip the chicken and continue grilling for another 4 to 5 minutes, or until fully cooked through and juices run clear. Meanwhile, rotate the pineapple spears every 2 to 3 minutes so all sides are evenly grilled and the pineapple absorbs the smoky flavors.
  5. Serve: Remove chicken and pineapple from the grill, garnish with thinly sliced green onions if desired, and serve immediately for a fresh, flavorful meal.

Notes

  • Marinating overnight will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
  • Use reduced sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
  • Make sure to discard the marinade after removing chicken and pineapple to avoid cross-contamination with raw poultry.
  • Grill pineapple carefully to prevent burning; turning often will ensure even caramelization.
  • Serve with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.