This Whiskey Pineapple Chicken is a tasty treat that combines sweet and tangy flavors. Juicy chicken is cooked in a yummy sauce made with whiskey and pineapple. What more could you ask for?
I love serving this dish with rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. It’s like a mini tropical vacation on your plate! Plus, it’s quick and easy to make—perfect for busy nights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they grill well. If you’re looking for an alternative, consider using chicken thighs for added juiciness or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice gives the best flavor, but canned juice works too. You can swap it with orange juice for a different twist, or use a mix of both for a unique flavor.
Whiskey: Bourbon is my favorite for this recipe, but any whiskey will do. If you want an alcohol-free option, use a mix of apple cider vinegar and water, or even more pineapple juice for a non-alcohol version.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is great if you’re watching your salt intake. Tamari is a fantastic gluten-free alternative, and using coconut aminos is another option for a slightly sweeter taste.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds richness, but you can substitute it with coconut sugar or honey if you prefer a different sweetness.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Tender and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is a key step that shouldn’t be rushed. The flavors from the marinade really penetrate the chicken and make it tender. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the marinade ingredients well and ensure the brown sugar is fully dissolved for even flavor.
- Seal the chicken in the marinade, squeezing out excess air to help it coat well.
- For best results, refrigerate the chicken for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours. The longer it marinates, the better the flavor!
When grilling, cook until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked but still juicy. Let the chicken rest after grilling; this allows juices to redistribute for moist, tender bites.
How to Make Whiskey Pineapple Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Marinade:
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup whiskey (such as bourbon)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
- Pineapple slices (for grilling and garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 2 hours to marinate the chicken. If you can, let the chicken marinate overnight for even better flavor. Cooking on the grill will take about 15 minutes, so overall, you’re looking at about 2 hours and 30 minutes (or longer if you marinate overnight). Perfect for a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the pineapple juice, whiskey, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and salt. This will be your flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. If you have time, letting it marinate overnight will really enhance the flavor.
3. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. To ensure the chicken doesn’t stick, lightly brush the grill grates with a little olive oil.
4. Grill the Chicken & Pineapple:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. If you want to grill some pineapple slices for extra flavor, place them on the grill as well. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has nice grill marks. The pineapple should take about 2-3 minutes per side until they’re caramelized and lovely.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once everything is cooked, remove the chicken and pineapple from the grill. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it. This helps keep it juicy! Serve the Whiskey Pineapple Chicken with grilled pineapple slices on the side for a delightful meal. Enjoy your delicious dinner!
Can I Use a Different Type of Alcohol?
Absolutely! If you don’t have whiskey on hand or prefer not to use it, you can substitute with rum for a sweeter flavor or even a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly based on your choice.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor! Just remember to keep it in the refrigerator during this time. If you’re short on time, even a 2-hour marinade will enhance the taste, but overnight is best!
What Should I Serve with Whiskey Pineapple Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the excess marinade. You could also serve it with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also enjoy it cold in salads or wraps!
