This Whiskey Pineapple Chicken is a tasty dish that blends sweet pineapple with a hint of whiskey. It’s juicy, flavorful, and easy to whip up for dinner!
I love how the sweet and tangy sauce makes this dish special. Plus, it pairs perfectly with rice or veggies. Just don’t forget to have a sip of whiskey while cooking! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but if you’re looking for a twist, thighs work well too. They can add richer flavor and stay juicier when grilled.
Pineapple Juice: For a natural option, you can use fresh pineapple juice. If you’re in a pinch, orange juice can be a fun substitute, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Whiskey: Bourbon is my go-to for its smooth flavor, but you can swap it out for any other whiskey you prefer, or even use apple cider vinegar for a non-alcoholic option that still gives a tangy taste.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a good alternative if you’re watching your salt intake. For a gluten-free version, try tamari.
Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar or honey can replace brown sugar. Just keep in mind that honey is sweeter, so you may want to adjust the amount slightly.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Grilled to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can achieve juicy results. First, make sure to marinate the chicken for at least an hour. If you have time, overnight is best, as it allows the flavors to really soak in.
- Preheat your grill or pan to medium heat—too high can scorch the outside.
- Keep the lid closed while cooking to maintain even heat and get that nice char.
- Use a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F for safe, perfectly cooked chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
Delicious 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 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour of marinating time (or overnight for best flavor). Cooking on the grill will take about 12-14 minutes. Overall, plan for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes if you include the marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the pineapple juice, whiskey, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, olive oil, black pepper, and salt. Use a whisk to mix it all together until the brown sugar dissolves completely. This sweet and savory marinade is going to make your chicken so tasty!
2. Marinating the Chicken:
Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully submerged. If they’re floating, gently press them down. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. If you have time, letting it marinate overnight will boost the flavor even more!
3. Grilling the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Take the chicken breasts out of the marinade, letting the excess drip off (don’t worry—discard the leftover marinade). Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and to have a nice char on the outside.
4. Finishing Touches:
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in. After resting, slice the chicken into strips. Garnish with chopped green onions, and serve it warm. Enjoy your tasty Whiskey Pineapple Chicken!
Can I Use a Different Type of Alcohol for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use whiskey, you can substitute it with rum or vodka. Keep in mind that it will slightly change the flavor profile, but it will still taste delicious. If you’d like a non-alcoholic option, use an equal amount of extra pineapple juice or apple cider for a similar sweetness and acidity.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for the best flavor, but 1 hour is the minimum. Just ensure it’s kept in the refrigerator, and don’t exceed the time too much as the acidity from the pineapple juice can begin to break down the chicken, making it mushy.
What Other Vegetables Can I Grill with the Chicken?
Grilling vegetables along with your chicken is a great idea! Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus work beautifully. Just toss them in a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and add them to the grill for the last few minutes of cooking.
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 gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or pineapple juice to keep it moist. Enjoy your meal again!
