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Close-up of barbecue chicken pieces brushed with honey glaze and paired with grilled pineapple rings.

Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken

Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken features tender chicken breasts marinated in pineapple juice, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic, then grilled to caramelized perfection with sweet, charred pineapple.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American (Hawaiian-Inspired)
Keyword: Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Marinade Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 small fresh pineapple peeled and sliced (or canned pineapple slices, drained)
  • ¼ cup pineapple juice
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • ½ cup barbecue sauce such as Sweet Baby Ray’s or preferred brand
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Chopped green onion optional, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Pineapple

  • If using fresh pineapple, remove the outer skin and core as needed. Slice into thick rings or wedges suitable for grilling. If using canned pineapple, ensure it is thoroughly drained before use.

Prepare the Marinade

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine pineapple juice, olive oil, soy sauce, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground black pepper, sea salt, and paprika. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.

Marinate the Chicken and Pineapple

  • Add the chicken breasts and pineapple slices to the bowl. Turn to coat thoroughly, ensuring all surfaces are evenly covered with marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

  • Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat. Lightly coat the grill grates with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.

Grill the Chicken

  • Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place the chicken breasts on the grill. Close the lid and cook for approximately 5 minutes. Flip the chicken, baste lightly with marinade, and cook an additional 5 minutes. Continue cooking, turning as needed, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Grill the Pineapple

  • During the final 5–10 minutes of cooking, place the pineapple slices on the grill. Cook until softened and lightly charred, turning once halfway through.

Rest and Serve

  • Remove the chicken and pineapple from the grill. Allow the chicken to rest for several minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

To prepare Honey Pineapple Grilled Chicken gluten free, use certified gluten-free soy sauce (such as tamari) and ensure the barbecue sauce selected is labeled gluten free. Always review ingredient labels to avoid hidden sources of gluten.