Grilled chicken is a classic dish loved by many. But when you add a tangy teriyaki sauce and the sweetness of pineapple, it takes the dish to a whole new level. This article will guide you on how to prepare the perfect Teriyaki Pineapple Grilled Chicken, a dish that is not just flavorful but also healthy and easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love Teriyaki Pineapple Grilled Chicken
The Teriyaki Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a dish that combines the savory flavor of teriyaki sauce with the juicy sweetness of grilled pineapple. The chicken is marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, then grilled to perfection with pineapple slices, resulting in a dish that is succulent, tangy, and bursting with flavor. The marinade, made with simple ingredients, gives the chicken a rich, savory taste, while the grilled pineapple adds a sweet and tart contrast. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues, but can also be enjoyed any time of the year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 chicken breast halves (boneless, skinless)
- 4 fresh pineapple slices
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (reduced sodium)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Timing
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Marination Time: Minimum of 2 hours
- Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Teriyaki Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and pepper. This will serve as your teriyaki marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the bowl, ensuring they are thoroughly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours. The longer the marination time, the more flavorful the chicken will be.
Step 3: Prepare the Grill
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken and Pineapple
Once the chicken is well-marinated, place it on the preheated grill. Grill each side of the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s completely cooked through. Simultaneously, place the pineapple slices on the grill until you see grill marks appear.
Step 5: Serve
Once the chicken and pineapple slices are grilled to perfection, serve the chicken topped with a pineapple slice. Sprinkle some chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for garnish.
Tips for Making It Perfectly
Marination Time: To get the most flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. If you can, marinate it overnight for an even deeper flavor.
Grilling Temperature: Make sure to preheat your grill to the right temperature. A medium-high heat ensures the chicken cooks evenly without burning.
Check for Doneness: To check if your chicken is cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. If it reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius), the chicken is done.
Grill the Pineapple: Grilling the pineapple slices caramelizes the sugars in the fruit, enhancing its sweetness and adding a smoky flavor that complements the teriyaki chicken perfectly.
Serving Suggestions: This dish is best served with a side of steamed rice or vegetables. The rice or vegetables will absorb the delicious teriyaki and pineapple flavors, making for a perfect meal.
Nutritional Facts
Amount Per 100g
- Calories-264 kcal
- protein- 25g
- carbohydrates- 14g
- fat- , 12g
- fiber- 1g
It is a good source of Vitamin C and Iron.
In Conclusion
Teriyaki Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings together the best of East Asian flavors. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a summer barbecue. Happy grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions
1- Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, canned pineapple can be used in place of fresh. However, fresh pineapple and its juice can provide a more vibrant flavor.
2- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
3- Can I cook this dish in an oven or on a stovetop if I don’t have a grill?
Yes, you can. If using an oven, preheat it to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes. If cooking on a stovetop, you can pan-sear the chicken over medium-high heat for about 7-8 minutes per side.
4- How can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a microwave or on a stovetop before serving.
5- Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, the marinated chicken can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.