If you’re looking for a fresh and flavorful dinner, this Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken recipe is a perfect choice. Juicy grilled chicken is marinated in a tropical mango-pineapple salsa, then finished with sweet fruit, colorful bell peppers, and fresh cilantro for an easy family-friendly meal that’s perfect for summer grilling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and savory tropical flavors in every bite.
- Quick and easy enough for busy weeknights.
- Perfect for backyard barbecues and summer gatherings.
- Healthy, protein-packed, and naturally gluten-free.
- Made with simple ingredients and minimal preparation.
- Family-friendly with vibrant colors and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1½ pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces mango pineapple salsa (Island Salsa or your favorite brand)
- ⅓ cup fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Bell Peppers
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced into ½-inch strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Garnishes
- 4 ounces mango pineapple salsa
- ½ cup diced mango
- ⅓ cup pineapple tidbits
- 2–4 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts into a large zip-top bag.
- Add the mango pineapple salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper.
- Seal the bag and massage until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for the best flavor.
- Preheat a lightly oiled grill to medium-high heat.
- Toss the sliced bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then place them into a grill basket.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
- Grill the Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Grill the peppers alongside the chicken, stirring occasionally until tender with light char marks.
- Arrange the chicken on a serving platter.
- Spoon additional salsa over each chicken breast.
- Top with diced mango, pineapple tidbits, and fresh cilantro before serving.
Tips & Tricks
- Marinate overnight for deeper tropical flavor.
- Use fresh mango and pineapple when they’re in season.
- A grill pan works well if outdoor grilling isn’t possible.
- Add sliced red onion or zucchini to the grill basket for extra vegetables.
- Let the chicken rest for five minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
- Serve with coconut rice, cilantro lime rice, or a fresh green salad.
Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes to overnight
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: About 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Tropical
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Gluten-free (check salsa label), Dairy-free
Notes
- Frozen mango and pineapple work well once thawed and drained.
- Adjust the amount of salsa depending on your preferred level of sweetness.
- Garnish with extra lime wedges for a brighter finish.
- Leftover chicken makes excellent tacos, wraps, or salads.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 385
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 11g
FAQ
Can I bake this recipe instead of grilling?
Yes. Bake the marinated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay juicy and develop wonderful caramelization.
What salsa works best?
A chunky mango pineapple salsa provides the best balance of sweetness and texture.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Marinate the chicken the night before and refrigerate until ready to grill.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave until heated through without overcooking.
Similar Recipes
Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1½ pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces mango pineapple salsa Island Salsa or your favorite brand
- ⅓ cup fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Bell Peppers
- 1 large yellow bell pepper sliced into ½-inch strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Garnishes
- 4 ounces mango pineapple salsa
- ½ cup diced mango
- ⅓ cup pineapple tidbits
- 2 –4 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro optional
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts into a large zip-top bag.
- Add the mango pineapple salsa, lime juice, olive oil, and black pepper.
- Seal the bag and massage until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for the best flavor.
- Preheat a lightly oiled grill to medium-high heat.
- Toss the sliced bell peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then place them into a grill basket.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
- Grill the Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Grill the peppers alongside the chicken, stirring occasionally until tender with light char marks.
- Arrange the chicken on a serving platter.
- Spoon additional salsa over each chicken breast.
- Top with diced mango, pineapple tidbits, and fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Frozen mango and pineapple work well once thawed and drained.
- Adjust the amount of salsa depending on your preferred level of sweetness.
- Garnish with extra lime wedges for a brighter finish.
- Leftover chicken makes excellent tacos, wraps, or salads.
Conclusion
This Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken combines juicy grilled chicken with sweet mango, pineapple, and vibrant vegetables for a colorful meal that’s bursting with tropical flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is simple to prepare, packed with fresh ingredients, and guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite.