Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

Name: Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts; 8 ounces mango-pineapple salsa; 1/3 cup lime juice; 1/4 cup olive oil; Yellow bell pepper (sliced); Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Published: June 5, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe can be ready in just 10 minutes on the grill, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Tropical Flavor: The combination of mango and pineapple gives a sweet and tangy flavor that is perfect for summer.
Versatile Dish: Pair it with rice, salad, or grilled veggies for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients, this grilled chicken is a wholesome choice for health-conscious eaters.
Marinade Magic: The marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor while keeping it tender and juicy.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Ziptop plastic bag
Grill basket (optional)
Tongs
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: The heart of this recipe, providing direct heat for perfect grilling.
Ziptop Plastic Bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly without mess.
Grill Basket: Helps in grilling vegetables without losing them through the grates.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 1/2 pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts
8 ounces Island Salsa (or your favorite mango-pineapple salsa)
1/3 cup lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)

For the Peppers

1 large yellow bell pepper (sliced into 1/2-inch wide strips)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)

For Topping

4 ounces Island Salsa (or as desired)
1/2 cup diced mango (thawed if frozen)
1/3 cup pineapple tidbits (thawed if frozen)
2 to 4 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional for garnishing)

How to Make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large ziptop plastic bag, combine the chicken, salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper.
Seal the bag tightly and gently shake or smoosh it around to coat all pieces of chicken evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

Lightly oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in olive oil or cooking spray.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Peppers

Place sliced yellow bell peppers in a grill basket.
Drizzle them evenly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently with tongs to coat.

Step 4: Grill Chicken and Peppers

Add marinated chicken to one side of the grill.
Place the grill basket with peppers on the other side.
Discard any leftover marinade from the bag. Grill chicken for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 5: Finish Cooking

Stir occasionally to keep peppers from burning. They may finish cooking slightly faster than chicken.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer grilled chicken to a serving platter. Top each piece with additional salsa as desired.
Evenly distribute diced mango and pineapple over the chicken. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy immediately!

How to Serve Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for summer gatherings. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

On a Bed of Greens

Serve the chicken over a fresh bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad.
Add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and avocado to enhance flavors.

With Coconut Rice

Pair the chicken with fluffy coconut rice for a tropical twist.
The rice complements the fruity flavors beautifully.

In Tacos

Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in soft tortillas.
Top with additional salsa, cilantro, and lime for a zesty kick.

With Grilled Vegetables

Serve alongside an assortment of grilled vegetables like zucchini and asparagus.
The smoky flavor pairs well with the sweet chicken.

As a Sandwich

Slice the chicken and place it on a toasted bun.
Add lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of salsa for an easy lunch option.

With Quinoa Salad

Create a hearty quinoa salad with diced mango, bell peppers, and lime dressing.
This provides a nutritious side that balances out the meal.

How to Perfect Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

To ensure your Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor absorption.
Preheat the Grill: A hot grill ensures proper searing and prevents sticking.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Let it Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to retain juices.
Customize Your Salsa: Feel free to mix in other fruits or spices in your salsa for unique flavor layers.
Experiment with Garnishes: Try adding sliced jalapeños or crumbled feta cheese for extra zest.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

Coleslaw
A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness that complements the grilled flavors.
Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn on the cob brushed with butter makes for a classic summer staple.
Potato Salad
A creamy potato salad offers comfort alongside the bright flavors of your main dish.
Black Bean Salad
This protein-packed salad brings hearty elements that balance out the sweetness of the chicken.
Fruit Salad
A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits can cleanse your palate beautifully after each bite.
Garlic Bread
Crispy garlic bread serves as an indulgent addition that everyone loves.
Cucumber Salad
A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar provides a crisp contrast to rich flavors.
Rice Pilaf
Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs rounds out your plate nicely while keeping it simple.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Not marinating long enough: If you don’t give the chicken enough time to soak in the flavors, it may taste bland. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better for maximum flavor.
Skipping the grill preheating: Failing to preheat your grill can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat to medium-high heat before placing your chicken on the grill.
Overcrowding the grill: Placing too much chicken on the grill at once can lower the temperature and lead to steaming instead of grilling. Cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
Ignoring internal temperature: Cooking chicken until it’s no longer pink isn’t enough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Forgetting about side veggies: The grilled peppers add great flavor and nutrition. Don’t neglect them; keep an eye on them while grilling so they don’t burn.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Enjoy within 3–4 days for best quality.

Freezing Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken

Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Add chicken and cover until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken?

You can pair this dish with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Adding grilled veggies also complements the flavors well.

Can I use other fruits instead of mango and pineapple?

Yes! You can experiment with other fruits like peaches or nectarines for different flavor profiles.

How do I make this recipe spicy?

To add some heat, consider mixing jalapeños into your salsa or adding cayenne pepper during marination.

Is Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken offers a delightful blend of tropical flavors that transport you straight to a sunny getaway. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits or sides. We encourage you to try this delicious dish and enjoy its refreshing taste any time of year!

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