Marinated Chicken Breasts With Grilled Pineapple Relish

 

Marinated Chicken Breasts With Grilled Pineapple Relish

This delicious recipe combines juicy marinated chicken breasts with a tropical grilled pineapple relish, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this flavorful dish:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Grilled Pineapple Relish:

• 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into rings
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small jalapeño, seeds removed and minced (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Breasts

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure each piece is well-coated.
3. Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F / 190–200°C).
2. Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent the chicken and pineapple from sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Pineapple for Relish

1. Place the pineapple rings directly on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until grill marks appear and the pineapple is slightly caramelized.
2. Remove the pineapple from the grill, let it cool slightly, and then chop it into small, bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Make the Pineapple Relish

1. In a medium bowl, combine the grilled pineapple, chopped red onion, diced red bell pepper, jalapeño (if using), fresh cilantro, and lime juice.
2. Stir the ingredients until mixed well, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 5: Grill the Marinated Chicken

1. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and place them on the grill.
2. Grill the chicken for about 6–8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
3. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to retain its juices.

Step 6: Serve

1. Place each grilled chicken breast on a plate and top generously with the grilled pineapple relish.
2. Garnish with extra cilantro or a squeeze of lime if desired, and serve hot.

Tips:

• For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
• Try adding a pinch of cayenne to the marinade if you like extra heat.
• This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.

Enjoy your Marinated Chicken Breasts with Grilled Pineapple Relish!