How to Make Grilled Pineapple BBQ Chicken with Classic Macaroni Salad
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Recipe Overview
Overview
This Pineapple Barbecue Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that will transport you to a summer barbecue, no matter the season. The marinade, made from pineapple juice and barbecue sauce, infuses the chicken with a tropical sweetness that perfectly complements the smoky char from grilling. The addition of garlic and spices adds depth, making each bite a burst of flavor.
The macaroni salad served alongside is a classic pairing, bringing a creamy texture that balances the grilled chicken’s juiciness. With simple ingredients like mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and fresh vegetables, it’s a quick and easy side that can be prepped ahead of time. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with the vibrant colors of the salad contrasting beautifully with the golden-brown chicken.
Perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or just a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of grilled chicken and macaroni salad is a nostalgic reminder of summer cookouts, making it a comforting choice for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors that come together effortlessly in this easy-to-follow recipe.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
In a bowl, add 1 cup of barbecue sauce, 1 cup of pineapple juice, 3/4 cup of crushed pineapple, 2 teaspoons of Maggie seasoning or soy sauce, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, and salt to taste. Mix all together.
Add 2 lbs of chicken (1 lb of chicken thigh and 1 lb of chicken breast) to the marinade, cover, and allow to marinate for 8 hours or at least 20 minutes.
In a bowl, add half a cup of mayo, half a cup of Crema Mexicana, 4 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Mix together and adjust seasoning.
Add 1 lb of cooked macaroni pasta, grated onion, carrots, and green onion to the dressing. Mix all together.
Tip: Taste the marinade and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cover the macaroni salad and place it in the refrigerator until serving.
Set a pan over medium-high heat. Remove excess marinade from chicken and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side.
After 4 minutes, check that the chicken is fully cooked and remove it from the pan.
Scrape the pan and add a little oil before cooking the remaining chicken.
Tip: Add a little oil to the pan to prevent chicken from sticking.
Cook pineapple slices in the same pan.
Reduce heat to medium, add the remaining marinade to the pan, and mix. Allow to come to a full simmer.
Tip: Allow the sauce to simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
After the sauce has thickened, add the chicken back to the pan and coat it with the sauce on both sides.
Tip: Reduce heat to the lowest setting after coating chicken with sauce.
After a couple of minutes, serve the chicken with macaroni salad and rice.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Dairy
→ Substitution: Coconut Cream
Ingredient: Gluten
→ Substitution: Gluten-Free Pasta
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Marinating chicken for at least 20 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness.
- •Grilling pineapple caramelizes its sugars, adding a sweet and smoky flavor.
- •Using a mix of chicken thighs and breasts provides a balance of flavor and moisture.
- •The macaroni salad can be customized with various vegetables for added crunch.
