Mango Pineapple Chicken

Get ready to bring the taste of the tropics right to your dinner table with this irresistible Mango Pineapple Chicken! 🍍🍗 Juicy chicken coated in a luscious mango-pineapple glaze that’s sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy — it’s sunshine on a plate. This dish bursts with tropical flavors and pairs perfectly with coconut rice or a fresh green salad for a light, feel-good meal.

It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like you’re dining on a beachside patio — without ever leaving your kitchen.

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The Story Behind the Recipe

This recipe was inspired by a vacation memory I’ll never forget — a beach shack in Maui that served the most incredible mango-glazed grilled chicken. 🌴 The sweetness of ripe mango, the brightness of pineapple, and a touch of chili made the flavor unforgettable.

When I got home, I knew I had to recreate it — but simpler and more weeknight-friendly. After some testing, this version became a staple. It’s bright, fruity, and savory all at once — the perfect mix of tropical comfort and grilled goodness.

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What Makes This Recipe Special

🍍 Tropical sweetness meets tangy spice — a beautiful flavor balance.
🔥 Works great grilled, baked, or pan-seared.
🥭 Naturally gluten-free and family-friendly.
🌿 Perfectly juicy chicken with caramelized fruit glaze.
⏱️ Ready in 35 minutes — quick yet impressive.

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Ingredients – Fresh, Simple & Full of Flavor

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs 🍗
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)

For the Mango Pineapple Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh mango chunks 🥭
• 1 cup pineapple chunks 🍍
• 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar 🍯
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
• 1 tbsp lime juice 🍋
• ½ tsp ginger powder or fresh grated ginger
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Pinch of salt

For Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro or parsley 🌿
• Lime wedges 🍋
• Optional: sliced green onions

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Blend together mango, pineapple, honey, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Set aside half for later and keep the rest for marinating.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken in a bowl or zip bag, add half the sauce, and let it marinate for 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• Grill Method: Preheat grill to medium heat. Grill chicken 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through.
• Pan-Seared Method: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sear chicken on both sides until golden and cooked.

Step 4: Glaze and Finish
Brush the reserved sauce over the cooked chicken and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to caramelize slightly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped cilantro and lime wedges. Serve over coconut rice, jasmine rice, or a bed of greens for a tropical twist. 🌴

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Serving Suggestions – What to Pair It With

🍚 Coconut rice or jasmine rice for a fragrant base.
🥗 Mango salsa or pineapple cucumber salad for freshness.
🍞 Toasted naan or flatbread for soaking up extra sauce.
🍹 Tropical smoothies or iced tea for a refreshing pairing.

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Customization & Variations

🌶️ Add a bit of sriracha or red chili flakes for heat.
🍋 Swap lime for lemon for a brighter twist.
🥭 Use frozen mango or pineapple if fresh isn’t available.
🍤 Try this sauce with shrimp or tofu for a fun variation.
🥬 Add bell peppers or onions for extra texture and color.

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Storing & Reheating

❄️ Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warm.
🚫 Avoid overheating the sauce to preserve its fresh fruit flavor.

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Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving – Approx.)

• Calories: 410 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbs: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 26g

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Reader Q&A – Common Questions

1. Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, but drain it well and avoid syrup-packed versions.

2. Can I bake this instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, basting halfway.

3. Can I use frozen mango or pineapple?
Absolutely — just thaw and drain before blending.

4. Can I make it spicy?
Add chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.

5. What cut of chicken works best?
Boneless thighs are juicier, but breasts work beautifully too.

6. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.

7. Can I use bottled mango juice instead?
Fresh fruit gives the best texture and taste, but in a pinch, yes!

8. Can I make this dairy-free and gluten-free?
It already is dairy-free; just ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free.

9. What sides pair best?
Coconut rice, grilled veggies, or a tropical fruit salad.

10. Can I use this sauce as a dip?
Yes! Reduce it slightly to thicken and serve as a dip with appetizers.

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Final Thoughts

This Mango Pineapple Chicken is your one-way ticket to the tropics — no flight required! 🌴🥭 It’s sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy with a glossy glaze that’s just irresistible. Whether you’re firing up the grill or cooking indoors, this dish delivers sunshine, flavor, and a hint of paradise in every bite.

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🍽️ Tried This Recipe?

If you made this tropical delight, don’t forget to follow @mamacooksdinner on Pinterest for more vibrant, flavorful recipes! 🌿🍍

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