The Best Grilled Pineapple Chicken Recipe for Busy Weeknights

When the workday ends and hunger hits fast, you need a meal that’s both quick and flavorful.

That’s where this grilled pineapple chicken recipe comes in. 

Sweet, smoky, and ready in under 30 minutes, it's the perfect weeknight dinner that tastes like summer; no matter the season.

Whether you're cooking for your family or just yourself, this dish is easy to make and hard to mess up.

Plus, it gives you the perfect reason to fire up the grill; even on a Tuesday.

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Why Grilled Pineapple Chicken Works for Busy Weeknights

It’s all about simplicity.

This recipe uses minimal ingredients, doesn’t require long marination, and delivers a punch of flavor with every bite.

The mix of juicy pineapple and savory chicken strikes a sweet-savory balance that tastes like it took hours; but really didn’t.

Also, grilling adds that smoky char that brings the whole dish together.

If you’re using an outdoor grill, the cleanup is just as quick.

No pots or pans needed; just heat, grill, and eat.

Looking for more weeknight-worthy grilling inspiration?

Don’t miss this roundup of 50 Tasty Things to Cook on the Grill for Quick, Delicious Results; you’re bound to find a few new favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• 1 cup pineapple juice (canned or fresh)

• 1/2 cup soy sauce

• 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger (or 1 tsp ground)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)

• Pineapple rings (fresh or canned), for grilling

• Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Quick Marinade (No Overnight Wait Required)

In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes.

Add chicken and let it sit for 15–20 minutes while the grill heats up.

This short marination works because pineapple juice contains bromelain; a natural tenderizer.

Just don’t leave the chicken in too long; over-marinating can actually make the texture mushy.

How to Grill Pineapple Chicken Perfectly

• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

• While the chicken marinates, slice fresh pineapple or drain canned rings.

• Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.

• Place chicken on the grill and cook 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temp reaches 165°F.

• Add pineapple rings during the last 4–5 minutes of cooking, flipping once to get those golden grill marks.

🍍 Tip: Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sugars.

You’ll get a caramelized flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory marinade.

Cleanup Tip for Grillers

Once your chicken is done and you're ready to relax, don't forget about your grill.

If you're using a traditional BBQ or gas grill, keeping it clean is key for longevity and food safety.

For a fast, bristle-free cleanup, consider using the Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper.

It’s safe for all grill grates and has no metal bristles; so you don’t have to worry about any breaking off into your food.

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What to Serve with Grilled Pineapple Chicken

Keep things light and fresh with easy sides like:

• Steamed rice or coconut rice

• Grilled vegetables (zucchini, peppers, or corn)

• A crisp cucumber salad

• Hawaiian-style rolls

Need more pairing ideas?

Check out this helpful guide on What to Serve with Barbeque Chicken for delicious side dishes that go beyond the usual.

Leftovers?

Toss the chicken into a salad, wrap, or rice bowl for a no-fuss lunch the next day.

Final Thoughts

When time is tight but you’re craving something exciting for dinner, this grilled pineapple chicken checks all the boxes.

It’s sweet, smoky, tender, and on your plate in under 30 minutes. 

You don’t need fancy tools or advanced skills; just good ingredients and a hot grill.

If you're loving simple, grill-friendly meals like this one, click the image below to check out our full range of BBQ tools made to make weeknight grilling even easier.

P.S. We regularly publish new recipes and grilling tips. Here’s the most recent one: Learn How Long to Cook Sausage Links.