Sweet Pineapple Balsamic Chicken

Name: Sweet Pineapple Balsamic Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar; 1/4 cup honey; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

I absolutely love making Sweet Pineapple Balsamic Chicken when I want to impress guests with a vibrant, flavorful dish. The combination of sweet pineapple and tangy balsamic vinegar not only creates a delicious glaze but also gives the chicken a delightful twist. Preparing this dish is a breeze, and it quickly becomes a favorite at our family dinners. I enjoy serving it with a side of fluffy rice to soak up the irresistible sauce, making it a complete meal that's sure to please everyone around the table.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-30T04:31:28.915Z

When I first tried this Sweet Pineapple Balsamic Chicken, I was amazed at how the sweet and savory flavors balanced each other. The inspiration came from a family barbecue where we served grilled chicken and had leftover balsamic chicken marinade that I thought could work wonders.

After experimenting with cooking methods, I discovered that marinating the chicken for an hour allows the flavors to infuse deeply, making each bite a burst of tropical delight. I always recommend garnishing it with fresh cilantro for an added layer of flavor!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The tropical flavors of pineapple beautifully complement the savory balsamic glaze
Easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option
A beautiful presentation that will impress your guests

Key Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

Achieving juicy and flavorful chicken breasts begins with the marinating process. Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes will enhance its flavor, but if you can let it sit overnight, the difference in taste will be remarkable. The acids in the balsamic vinegar tenderize the chicken while infusing it with sweet and tangy notes. Just ensure you don’t exceed 24 hours, as prolonged marination can lead to a mushy texture.

When cooking the chicken, use a medium heat to ensure even cooking without charring the outside too quickly. Cook the chicken until it develops a golden brown exterior while maintaining its juiciness inside. A reliable test for doneness is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one on hand, cut into the thickest part of the breast to check for any pinkness.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

The addition of fresh pineapple chunks not only elevates the sweetness of the dish but also contributes a lovely texture and moisture. Be sure to grill the pineapple for just a few minutes to caramelize its natural sugars without turning it mushy. If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider using a grill pan or actual grill for an even deeper taste that complements the marinade.

For those experimenting with flavors, you can swap the honey for maple syrup or a brown sugar-based glaze to create a different sweet profile. Alternatively, adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes during the marinade can introduce a nice hint of heat, balancing the sweetness from the pineapple. Don't hesitate to mix in some chopped jalapeño or sriracha for an extra layer of flavor if you're a fan of spicy food.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your own Sweet Pineapple Balsamic Chicken!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup honey
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to jump into this delicious recipe!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Sweet Pineapple Balsamic Chicken.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, and some salt and pepper. Whisk together until well mixed.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight for more flavor).

Cook the Chicken

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the liquid. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.

Add Pineapple

In the last few minutes of cooking, add the pineapple chunks to the grill or skillet. Pour the reserved marinade over the chicken and pineapple, allowing it to caramelize slightly.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve it warm over rice or with a salad.

Enjoy your delicious meal with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding chopped jalapeños to the marinade for a spicy kick or experiment with grilled vegetables for a more complete meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Sweet Pineapple Balsamic Chicken is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This not only intensifies the flavors but makes weeknight cooking much quicker. Just remember to store any uncooked chicken separately from other ingredients to prevent cross-contamination.

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is best done in a skillet over medium heat to prevent drying out; add a splash of water or broth and cover to create steam. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as described.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet Pineapple Balsamic Chicken is delightful served over fluffy rice, which absorbs the delicious sauce beautifully. For a lighter option, try it over a fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors. Consider adding sliced avocado, bell peppers, or crunchy nuts to give your salad more texture and nutrition.

To elevate the dish further for guests, serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a pineapple salsa for an additional freshness that ties back to the main flavors. The visual appeal of colorful sides will impress your friends and family, making it a memorable meal. Don't forget to drizzle some extra balsamic glaze over the top for that final touch of elegance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work great! Just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and cook it the next day for a quick meal.

→ What sides pair well with this chicken?

This dish pairs perfectly with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad to balance the sweet flavors.