Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken

Name: Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 tablespoon minced ginger; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 1/2 red bell pepper, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime

Highlighted under: Simple Sweet Baking

I love making Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken because it perfectly blends sweet and savory flavors. The tangy pineapple and zesty chili sauce create a wonderful contrast that complements the tender chicken. This recipe is not only quick to prepare, but it also brings a burst of bright, tropical flavors to the table. Ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this dish has become a staple in my cooking repertoire. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be hooked on that vibrant taste!

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-02-16T09:29:37.279Z

When I first tried Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken at a local restaurant, I immediately fell in love with its unique flavor profile. The balance of sweet pineapple and spicy chili sauce makes every bite a delightful experience. So, I decided to recreate it at home, experimenting with seasonings and cooking techniques.

After several attempts, I found that marinating the chicken in the sweet chili sauce adds more depth and flavor. Grilling it instead of frying not only makes it healthier but also enhances that charred taste which pairs beautifully with the juicy pineapple. It’s a dish that truly excites the senses!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and spicy combination that brings excitement to the palate
Juicy chicken infused with tropical flavor from pineapple
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Mastering the Chicken

The key to perfectly grilled chicken in this Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken recipe is the marinating process. By allowing the chicken breasts to soak in the sweet chili and soy sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes, you enable the chicken to absorb those vibrant flavors deeply. If you have time, consider marinating them for a few hours or even overnight for an extra layer of taste. Just remember to cover the chicken well in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

When it comes to grilling, preheating is crucial. Heat your grill to medium-high, aiming for around 375°F to 400°F. This temperature allows for a good sear on the chicken, providing those beautiful grill marks while sealing in the juices. Look for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F; using a meat thermometer will help ensure that you don't overcook it, keeping the meat juicy and tender.

Creating Flavorful Pineapple Salsa

The pineapple salsa serves as a bright, fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the grilled chicken. Opting for fresh pineapple is essential; it offers a sweetness that canned varieties can't match. When dicing, aim for uniform-sized pieces to ensure consistency in flavor distribution. Additionally, the lime juice not only enhances the sweetness but also prevents the pineapple from browning, maintaining that vibrant appearance right until serving.

Feel free to customize the salsa to your taste. Add diced jalapeños for an extra kick or substitute the cilantro with fresh mint if you're looking for a different flavor profile. This versatility means you can easily adjust the ingredient ratios. Just remember to let the salsa rest for a few minutes after mixing; this will allow all the flavors to meld together, creating a more harmonious dish overall.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger

For the Pineapple Salsa

1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1/2 red bell pepper, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the juices run clear.

Make the Pineapple Salsa

In a separate bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Mix well and let it sit for a few minutes to marry the flavors.

Serve

Slice the grilled chicken and serve it topped with the fresh pineapple salsa. Enjoy this vibrant dish with steamed rice or a crisp salad.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade if you like it spicier. Also, feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option!

Storage Tips

Leftover Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, consider using a microwave or a skillet with a splash of water to steam the chicken gently, which will help retain moisture. If the chicken seems dry upon reheating, adding a drizzle of sweet chili sauce can revive the flavors without having to start over.

For the pineapple salsa, it’s best consumed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store it in a separate container and keep it chilled for a maximum of two days. Just be aware that the texture of the pineapple may change over time, so plan to enjoy the salsa soon after making it for the best experience.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet Chili Pineapple Chicken pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, which soak up the delicious juices from the chicken. Alternatively, serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or grilled vegetables for a lighter meal option. Adding a drizzle of more sweet chili sauce on top right before serving can elevate the dish even more, giving guests the option to adjust the sweetness to their liking.

Consider making this dish for your next gathering as well. Its vibrant colors and flavors can make a stunning centerpiece on the table. You might also want to serve it with warm tortillas; turning it into a taco night by providing the chicken and pineapple salsa alongside avocados and sour cream can be a fun twist that your guests will appreciate!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or a light salad.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and marinade ahead of time. Just grill it fresh before serving.