20-minute blackened grilled chicken with pineapple salsa is the ultimate solution for a fast, flavorful meal that doesn’t skimp on excitement. Did you know that meals made with fresh fruit salsas have been shown to increase satisfaction and nutrient intake, according to recent culinary studies? This dish combines smoky, spice-rubbed chicken grilled to perfection and topped with a bright, juicy pineapple salsa that bursts with tropical flair. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself craving again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready to serve in just 20 minutes.
- Bold Flavor: The spicy blackened chicken and sweet pineapple salsa create the perfect contrast.
- Healthy and Fresh: High in lean protein and packed with vitamins from fresh produce.
- Versatile Serving Options: Delicious over rice, in wraps, or served solo.
Ingredients
For the Blackened Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
- 1–2 teaspoons cooking oil (olive oil or avocado oil)
For the Pineapple Salsa:
- 1½ cups pineapple chunks (fresh preferred)
- ¾ cup red bell pepper, chopped
- ½ cup red onion, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Juice from 2 lime wedges (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Blackened Grilled Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
Pineapple Salsa:
- Chop the pineapple into small chunks and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Roughly chop the red pepper, red onion, and cilantro. Add them to the bowl.
- Stir in honey, lime juice, and chili powder if using.
- Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Mix everything thoroughly and set aside to let the flavors blend.
Grilled Blackened Chicken:
- If the chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even 1–2 inch thickness for quicker, more even cooking.
- Generously apply the blackened seasoning to each chicken piece, then drizzle with oil.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat.
- Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once cooked, take the chicken off the grill and allow it to rest for 5 minutes.
Serving:
- Place the grilled chicken on a plate.
- Top each piece with a generous spoonful of pineapple salsa.
- Serve immediately.
20-Minute Blackened Grilled Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
20-Minute Blackened Grilled Chicken with Pineapple Salsa is a fast, fresh, and flavorful dinner made with bold spices and juicy tropical salsa. Perfect for busy nights—ready in just 20 minutes. Try it tonight!
Ingredients
For the Blackened Chicken:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
1–2 teaspoons cooking oil (olive or avocado oil)
For the Pineapple Salsa:
1½ cups fresh pineapple chunks
¾ cup red bell pepper, chopped
½ cup red onion, chopped
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon honey
Juice of 2 lime wedges (about 1 tablespoon)
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop the pineapple into small chunks and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Roughly chop the red pepper, red onion, and cilantro. Add them to the bowl.
- Stir in honey, lime juice, and chili powder if using.
- Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Mix everything thoroughly and set aside to let the flavors blend.
Grilled Blackened Chicken:
- If the chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even 1–2 inch thickness for quicker, more even cooking.
- Generously apply the blackened seasoning to each chicken piece, then drizzle with oil.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat.
- Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once cooked, take the chicken off the grill and allow it to rest for 5 minutes.
Serving:
- Place the grilled chicken on a plate.
- Top each piece with a generous spoonful of pineapple salsa.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Use fresh pineapple for best flavor and texture.
Pound chicken evenly to ensure it cooks quickly and stays juicy.
Salsa can be prepped a day ahead and refrigerated.
Control spice level by adjusting chili powder or seasoning.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with salsa
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 7g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 12g
Helpful Tips
- Even Thickness Matters: Pounding the chicken ensures it cooks evenly and quickly.
- Let It Rest: Always rest your meat after grilling for juicier results.
- Control the Spice: Adjust chili powder to make it milder or hotter based on your taste.
Substitutions And Variations
- Try Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or turkey cutlets.
- Fruit Alternatives: Mango or peach work great if pineapple isn’t available.
- Herb Swaps: Use basil or mint in place of cilantro for a new twist.
- Make it a Meal: Serve over quinoa, couscous, or stuffed in a tortilla.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned pineapple?
While canned pineapple works, fresh offers superior texture and taste.
Is this dish very spicy?
The spiciness is moderate and adjustable. Reduce chili powder or use a milder blackened seasoning for a less spicy version.
Can I make the salsa ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it up to a day in advance and keep it in the fridge.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Gently: Warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave. Serve the salsa chilled or at room temperature.
- Not Freezer-Friendly: This salsa is best fresh and not suitable for freezing.
Conclusion
This dish delivers bold flavors, wholesome nutrition, and effortless preparation in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a grill-out hit, this recipe will not disappoint. The mix of spicy, smoky chicken and fresh, zesty salsa is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Give this recipe a go and share your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our other quick and healthy dinner ideas.