This Whiskey Pineapple Chicken is a fun and tasty dish! The juicy chicken is cooked with a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce, making each bite burst with flavor.
The mix of whiskey and pineapple is a surprising pair, but trust me, it works wonders! I love serving this with rice to soak up all that yummy sauce. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, but fancy enough to impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for quick grilling. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be a great alternative, offering more flavor and moisture.
Whiskey: Any whiskey works here! Bourbon adds sweetness, while rye gives a spicier kick. Don’t have whiskey? Use apple cider vinegar or a splash of ginger ale for a non-alcoholic option.
Pineapple Juice: Freshly squeezed pineapple juice is the best for a bright flavor. However, canned juice can work too. You can even substitute with orange juice for a different twist!
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a healthier choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Try tamari if you need a gluten-free option.
Brown Sugar: This adds a nice caramelized finish. You can swap it with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener, adjusting the amount to taste.
How Do I Marinate the Chicken Properly?
Marinating chicken is key for great flavor! To ensure your chicken absorbs all those delicious notes from the marinade, follow these steps:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl. Whisk thoroughly to combine.
- Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish, then pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly and refrigerate. Marinate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight to really let those flavors develop.
Remember, don’t reuse leftover marinade without cooking it, as it can contain raw chicken juices. Enjoy the process!
How to Make Whiskey Pineapple Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Marinade:
- 1/2 cup whiskey
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Optional: Fresh pineapple slices for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 14 minutes for grilling. Plus, you’ll want to allow at least 2 hours for marinating (or overnight for even better flavor). So, get ready for some delicious chicken!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Whisk together the whiskey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is mixed well to create a tasty marinade that’ll soak into the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, take the chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken until it’s nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or better yet, overnight if you have time. This will really enhance the flavors!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Remember to discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on one side, then flip it over and grill for another 6-7 minutes, or until it’s cooked all the way through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Grill Pineapple (Optional):
If you’d like a sweet addition, you can also grill fresh pineapple slices. Just toss them on the grill for a few minutes on each side until they’re nicely caramelized and taste amazing!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is done, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it hot, and if you grilled pineapple, top the chicken with those juicy slices for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious 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 cider or a mix of apple juice and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. This will maintain a similar sweetness and flavor profile without the alcohol.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but if you have the time, letting it sit overnight really enhances the flavors. Just make sure to keep it in the refrigerator while marinating!
Can I Make This in the Oven Instead of Grilling?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Optionally, you can broil for the last couple of minutes to get that nice caramelization on the chicken.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave it in short intervals to avoid drying it out.
