This Whiskey Pineapple Chicken is a fun and tasty dish that’s sure to impress! Juicy chicken pieces are cooked in a sweet and tangy sauce made from pineapple and whiskey. Yum!
I love how the sweet pineapple and the rich whiskey create a perfect balance. Serve this over rice, and you’d be in for a treat that even makes dinner feel like a party! 🍍🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whiskey: This adds a deep, rich flavor to the marinade. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you could use apple juice or a mix of apple cider vinegar with water for a similar tangy sweetness.
Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice is the best choice for vibrant flavor. However, if you’re short on time, canned juice works too. Just make sure it’s 100% juice without added sugars!
Soy Sauce: This ingredient gives the dish its savory depth. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce. If you’re watching sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce is a great choice.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. You can swap it with honey or maple syrup if you want a different flavor profile. Coconut sugar is also an excellent alternative for a more natural sweetener.
How Can I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can seem tricky, but a few simple techniques can help you achieve juicy results. First, marinate the chicken to add flavor and moisture. Allowing it to soak for at least an hour will do wonders!
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; this ensures a good sear.
- Oil the grates to avoid chicken sticking. A simple coating of oil on a paper towel works great.
- Cook each side for 6-8 minutes. Keep an eye on the internal temperature—165°F (75°C) indicates it’s done.
- Let your chicken rest after grilling; it helps retain its juices for better flavor and moisture.
I’ve found that skimping on the marinating time can lead to less tasty results, so try to plan ahead if possible!
How to Make Whiskey Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup whiskey
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare plus at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken. If you have time, letting the chicken sit in the marinade overnight will deepen the flavors. Cooking on the grill adds another 15-20 minutes, bringing the total time to around 1 hour and 35 minutes if you marinate for an hour.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the whiskey, pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the brown sugar is fully dissolved. This will be your tasty marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken breasts to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece is completely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, let it marinate overnight.
3. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly coat the grill grates with oil so the chicken doesn’t stick.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade. Allow any excess marinade to drip off (you can throw away the leftover marinade). Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have a lovely char on them.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for more tender chicken. After resting, slice the chicken and serve it hot, garnished with chopped green onions if you like. Enjoy your delicious Whiskey Pineapple Chicken!
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in pieces may take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Whiskey?
No problem! You can substitute whiskey with apple juice for a sweeter flavor or chicken broth for a less sweet option. Just remember that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! The marinade can be prepared a day in advance, and the chicken can marinate overnight in the fridge. This will intensify the flavors and make your chicken even more delicious!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Just be careful not to overcook it, as it can dry out.
