Grilled to perfection and glazed with tropical flair, this Sweet & Smoky Mango Pineapple Chicken is a delicious escape to the islands without leaving your kitchen. Juicy chicken breasts soak up a smoky marinade, then get paired with golden pineapple chunks and sweet mango for a combination that’s both vibrant and comforting.

The fruit brings a bright sweetness that balances the smoky char from the grill, and a touch of fresh herbs enhances the whole dish with a pop of freshness. Whether you serve it at a backyard BBQ or as a colorful weeknight dinner, this dish brings major flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients for this Sweet & Smoky Mango Pineapple Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup diced fresh mango (about 1 large mango)
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned in juice)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chopped cilantro or mint for garnish (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Pour half of the marinade into a separate small bowl to reserve for later use.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the remaining marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Preheat and Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and discard used marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Glaze and Add Fruit

During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the reserved marinade over the chicken. Add mango and pineapple chunks directly to the grill or warm them in a pan until lightly caramelized.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Arrange grilled chicken on a serving plate and top with grilled fruit. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for added brightness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

The cayenne pepper adds a mild kick, but you can easily adjust the heat level or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.

Can I use canned mango or pineapple?

Fresh fruit is best for grilling, but canned options work in a pinch. Be sure to drain them well before use.

Is it okay to marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight deepens the flavor. Just don’t exceed 24 hours to prevent the texture from becoming mushy.

What sides pair well with this chicken?

Try jasmine rice, coconut rice, or a fresh salad with lime vinaigrette. Grilled veggies also complement the dish nicely.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked, then broil for 2 minutes to char slightly.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! Cook the chicken in advance and store portions with fruit separately. Perfect for easy reheating during the week.