If you’re searching for a vibrant dish that brings tropical sunshine to your plate, this Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken Recipe is an absolute must-try. Juicy, tender chicken gets a flavorful makeover with a zesty mango-pineapple salsa and a bright lime marinade that creates an irresistible balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky. The grilled yellow bell peppers add just the right crunch and color, making this meal not only delicious but a feast for the eyes as well. It’s a simple yet impressive recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a lively celebration of flavors perfect for any season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity and freshness. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s the juicy fruit for sweetness, the citrus for brightness, or the spices for a gentle kick that ties everything together perfectly.
- 1 ½ pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts: These cook quickly and absorb the marinade beautifully for maximum flavor.
- 8 ounces Island Salsa or mango-pineapple salsa: A sweet and tangy blend that infuses the chicken with tropical notes.
- â…“ cup lime juice: Adds a fresh, zesty acidity that brightens the dish instantly.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Ensures the marinade coats the chicken well and keeps it moist during grilling.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Provides just enough peppery warmth without overpowering the fruitiness.
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced: Adds vibrant color and sweet, crisp texture when grilled.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to lightly coat the bell peppers before grilling.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the bell peppers.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Balances the seasoning for the grilled veggies.
- 4 ounces Island Salsa or as desired: Extra salsa to dress the plated chicken for bold flavor.
- ½ cup diced mango: Offers juicy bursts of tropical sweetness as a topping.
- â…“ cup pineapple tidbits: Complements the mango with bright and tangy notes.
- 2 to 4 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional): Adds fresh herbal brightness and color to the final presentation.
How to Make Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing the thin-sliced chicken breasts into a large zip-top bag, then add the Island Salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and freshly ground black pepper. Seal the bag tightly and give it a gentle massage so the marinade coats each piece evenly. Refrigerate this mix for at least 30 minutes to allow the chicken to soak up those tropical flavors, or even better, let it marinate overnight for an intense flavor infusion.
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
Before you grill, lightly brush the grill grates with oil to prevent the chicken and peppers from sticking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which will give a beautiful sear while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
Step 3: Season the Bell Peppers
Take the yellow bell pepper strips and toss them in a grill basket with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances their natural sweetness and ensures they grill evenly, adding a wonderful smoky contrast to the dish.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken and Peppers
Arrange your marinated chicken breasts on one side of the grill and place the grill basket with the bell peppers on the other side. Close the lid and grill the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until fully cooked. Meanwhile, use tongs to stir the bell peppers every so often as they caramelize and get tender, keeping an eye so they don’t cook too fast and burn.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once grilled to perfection, transfer the chicken breasts to a large serving platter. Spoon some extra salsa over each piece, then sprinkle with the diced mango and pineapple tidbits for juicy bursts of tropical flavor and color. Finally, add fresh cilantro leaves if you like, and serve immediately while everything is still warm and vibrant.
How to Serve Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
The right garnishes make all the difference. Fresh cilantro leaves bring a herbal pop that complements the salsa and fruit perfectly. You can even add a few thin lime wedges on the side to add extra zing at the table. Consider a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for a fun, tropical twist.
Side Dishes
This grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with simple, light sides that let the main flavors shine. Think fluffy coconut rice, a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette, or even grilled corn on the cob with a sprinkle of chili lime seasoning. The key is to keep the sides fresh and easy so they support rather than compete with the star of the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive vibe, serve the grilled chicken on a platter lined with banana leaves or pineapple leaves for an island feel. You might also slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens topped with avocado slices, extra mango chunks, and a drizzle of the mango-pineapple salsa as a vibrant salad. Presentation adds a fun element and makes this Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken Recipe a party-worthy centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), place the chicken and grilled peppers into an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for 3 to 4 days while maintaining much of their juicy flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken from this recipe for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in freezer-safe bags with minimal air. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Cover loosely to retain moisture, and add a splash of water or extra salsa if needed. Microwaving works in a pinch but watch closely to maintain juiciness and fresh flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs have a bit more fat which keeps them juicy, and they also work wonderfully with this marinade and grilling method. Just adjust cooking times slightly since thighs may take a bit longer.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?
Not necessary but highly recommended. Marinating overnight allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, making each bite more flavorful and tender. If you’re short on time, 30 minutes still works well.
Can I make this recipe on a stovetop grill pan?
Yes! A grill pan on the stove can deliver great sear marks and caramelization. Just be sure to preheat it well and turn the chicken frequently to prevent burning and cook evenly.
What if I can’t find mango-pineapple salsa?
You can easily make your own by combining diced mango, pineapple, finely chopped red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Fresh ingredients give the best flavor and freshness.
Is this recipe spicy?
It’s mostly sweet and tangy with a mild peppery warmth from the black pepper and optional jalapeño in the salsa. If you prefer more heat, add extra chili powder or hot sauce to taste.
Final Thoughts
Give this Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken Recipe a whirl and prepare to be delighted by the explosion of tropical flavors with every bite. It’s the kind of dish that brings a festive, sunny vibe to your table and invites everyone to savor simple ingredients elevated by fresh fruit and bold grilling. Whether for a weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite you return to again and again.
Print
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken recipe features tender, marinated chicken breasts grilled to perfection alongside seasoned bell peppers. Topped with vibrant mango-pineapple salsa and fresh cilantro, this dish is a tropical, flavorful meal perfect for summer gatherings or an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)
- 8 ounces Island Salsa or your favorite mango-pineapple salsa
- â…“ cup lime juice
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste
For the Grilled Peppers
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced into ½-inch wide strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste
For Serving
- 4 ounces Island Salsa or as desired
- ½ cup diced mango (thawed and drained if frozen)
- â…“ cup pineapple tidbits (thawed and drained if frozen)
- 2 to 4 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large zip-top plastic bag, combine the thin-sliced chicken breasts, salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and freshly ground black pepper. Seal the bag and gently massage the marinade into the chicken to coat it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to maximize flavor infusion.
- Prepare the Grill: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and preheat your grill to medium-high heat, setting the stage for perfect grilling.
- Season the Bell Peppers: Place the sliced yellow bell pepper strips into a grill basket. Drizzle them evenly with olive oil, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss with tongs to ensure even coating.
- Grill the Chicken and Peppers: Arrange the marinated chicken on one side of the grill and position the grill basket with the bell peppers on the opposite side. Discard the empty marinade bag. Grill the chicken with the lid closed for about 4 to 5 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes or until cooked through. Stir the bell peppers intermittently during cooking; they may finish slightly earlier than the chicken.
- Assemble and Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken breasts to a large serving platter. Top each breast with additional salsa, then evenly distribute the diced mango and pineapple tidbits over the top. Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavors but at least 30 minutes is sufficient for a tasty result.
- If you don’t have a grill basket, you can grill the peppers directly on the grill using a grill-safe pan or skewers.
- Use fresh mango and pineapple for the topping if available for improved texture and taste.
- Make sure to oil your grill grates well to prevent sticking, especially for the chicken breasts.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed within 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
