Grilled Aloha Chicken and Pineapple

Grilled Aloha Chicken and Pineapple is a tropical-inspired dish that brings juicy, marinated chicken and sweet, caramelized pineapple together in perfect harmony. Bursting with Hawaiian flair, this recipe delivers a sweet and savory flavor combination that’s perfect for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, or whenever you want a little sunshine on your plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate blend of bold, sweet, and smoky flavors. The chicken is marinated in a tangy, pineapple-based sauce that infuses every bite with tropical goodness. Grilling the pineapple brings out its natural sugars, giving it a caramelized edge that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken. It’s easy to prepare, full of color, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s gluten-free and great for meal prep or entertaining.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• Pineapple rings (fresh preferred, canned if needed)
• Pineapple juice
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Ketchup
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh ginger, grated
• Apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
• Olive oil or sesame oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Green onions (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, garlic, ginger, vinegar, and oil to make the marinade.
2. Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or container and pour in the marinade. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Grill pineapple rings for 2–3 minutes per side, or until grill marks appear and the fruit is slightly caramelized.
6. Serve grilled chicken topped with pineapple slices and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes (plus marinating)
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 2.5–8 hours (including marinating time)

Variations

• Spicy Aloha Chicken: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a kick of heat.
• Teriyaki Twist: Substitute half of the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for deeper umami flavor.
• Grilled Veggie Add-On: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or red onion on skewers for a full grilled platter.
• Aloha Chicken Skewers: Cube the chicken and pineapple, thread onto skewers, and grill for fun party-friendly servings.
• Oven Method: Bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes if grilling isn’t an option.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat:

• Microwave: Heat on medium for 1–2 minutes, covered.
• Skillet: Reheat over medium heat with a splash of water or leftover marinade.
• Oven: Warm at 350°F for 10–12 minutes until heated through.

Grilled pineapple can be reheated, but it’s also delicious served cold alongside warm chicken.

FAQs

What does “Aloha” style mean in cooking?

“Aloha” often refers to Hawaiian-style dishes, typically featuring tropical ingredients like pineapple, soy sauce, and sweet-savory marinades.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple rings work well—just make sure to use pineapple juice from the can for the marinade if it’s 100% juice.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the chicken overnight and grill it when ready to serve. Leftovers also store well for meal prep.

Do I need a grill for this recipe?

No. You can use a grill pan or bake the chicken in the oven. You can even broil it for a similar charred effect.

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with rice, coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them an excellent choice for grilling.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be. Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to ensure the recipe is gluten-free.

Can I use other fruits?

Yes, mango or peaches can be grilled and used similarly for a sweet, smoky flavor.

Conclusion

Grilled Aloha Chicken and Pineapple is a flavorful, easy, and family-friendly recipe that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer BBQ or just craving something bright and satisfying, this dish is sure to become a favorite. It’s sweet, savory, and beautifully simple—everything a great meal should be.

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