Sweet, savory, and kissed by the flames, this easy summer dinner tastes like vacation. Juicy chicken thighs soak up a simple pineapple-soy marinade, then get finished with warm pineapple, buttery scallions, and a squeeze of fresh lime.
Serves 4–6
Ingredients
Marinade
- ¾ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¾ cup pineapple juice
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
To Finish
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 4 scallions, thinly sliced
- Lime wedges
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Chopped cilantro (optional)
Directions
Whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes until the sugar dissolves.
Add the chicken, turning to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the marinade.
Grill the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
While the chicken rests, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the pineapple chunks and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until warmed through and beginning to caramelize. Stir in the scallions.
Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and spoon the warm pineapple mixture over the top. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, and cilantro, if using.
Serving Ideas
This chicken is just as good beyond a bowl of rice. Try serving it with:
- A crunchy cabbage slaw with a lime vinaigrette
- Grilled broccolini or asparagus
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Coconut quinoa
- Butter lettuce cups
- Hawaiian rolls for sandwiches
- Warm tortillas for tropical tacos
- A simple cucumber salad
- Macaroni salad for a backyard barbecue
Wine Pairing
A dry Riesling, Chenin Blanc, Viognier, lightly oaked Chardonnay, or a dry Rosé all pair beautifully with the sweet-savory flavors of this dish.
Cook’s Tip
Fresh pineapple chunks add bright flavor and texture without the extra step of grilling a whole pineapple. A quick sauté in butter is all they need before spooning over the chicken.
