This Whiskey Pineapple Chicken is a tasty mix of sweet and tangy flavors! The juicy chicken gets a zesty kick from whiskey and pineapple, making it a fun dish for any dinner.
I love to serve this with rice or noodles to soak up all that tasty sauce. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this one! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up on a weeknight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here. If you want to switch it up, you could use chicken thighs for a juicier option or even swap in tofu for a vegetarian choice.
Pineapple Juice: This adds a sweet tang. If you don’t have any, orange juice can work in a pinch. You could also blend fresh pineapple for a fresher taste.
Whiskey: Bourbon is my go-to for a deep flavor, but you can also use rum or even apple cider vinegar if you want to avoid alcohol.
Soy Sauce: This adds umami. If you’re watching your sodium, low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (a gluten-free option) can be used. Coconut aminos are a tasty alternative too!
Brown Sugar: It balances the tangy flavors. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use honey or maple syrup instead.
How Do I Get the Chicken Grilled Just Right?
Grilling chicken perfectly can be tricky, but it’s all about preparation and timing!
- Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you can. This helps infuse all that delicious flavor.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high. It’s important for getting those nice grill marks!
- Remove the chicken from the marinade (don’t reuse it). Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for a nice golden color and check that it reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This keeps it juicy!
Whiskey Pineapple Chicken: A Flavorful Grilling Delight!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup whiskey (such as bourbon)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Grilling:
- Fresh pineapple slices (for grilling, optional)
- Chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 2 hours for marinating. You’ll grill the chicken and pineapple for about 15 minutes. So, total time is around 2 hours and 25 minutes, mostly waiting for the chicken to soak up all the delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the pineapple juice, whiskey, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and salt. Stir well until everything is combined. This marinade packs in the flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or if you can, overnight for even more flavor. Just remember to give it a little shake or flip it halfway through!
3. Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using fresh pineapple slices to grill, lightly oil the grill grates to avoid sticking and keep those fruity slices from getting all messed up.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and throw away the marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook them for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and have beautiful grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat!
5. Grill the Pineapple (if using):
If you’re grilling fresh pineapple slices, add them to the grill now and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re caramelized and looking tasty.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken and pineapple are grilled, take them off the grill. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This helps keep it juicy!
7. Add a Finishing Touch:
Serve your delicious grilled chicken with the grilled pineapple. For a fresh touch, sprinkle some chopped green onions or parsley on top. Enjoy every bite of your Whiskey Pineapple Chicken!
Can I Substitute the Whiskey in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use whiskey, you can substitute it with apple juice or a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative for similar flavor notes. This will keep the sweetness and enhance the dish without using alcohol.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor. However, if you’re short on time, even 2 hours will still give you a tasty result. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acid in the marinade can make the chicken mushy.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store leftover Whiskey Pineapple Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. For best results, add a splash of pineapple juice to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Cook This Chicken in the Oven Instead of Grilling?
Definitely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated chicken breasts on a lined baking sheet. Roast for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This will give you juicy chicken with less effort!
