Yard House Maui Pineapple Chicken Recipe

You’re going to love making Yard House’s Maui Pineapple Chicken!

For the best results, make sure you marinate the chicken for at least two hours to allow the flavors to fully infuse.

I particularly enjoy this recipe because the grilled pineapple adds a wonderful touch of sweetness that complements the savory chicken perfectly.

It’s one of those dishes that feels special, yet is simple enough to cook any night of the week.

How to Make Yard House Maui Pineapple Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 Chicken Thighs
• 1 cup Pineapple Juice
• 1/2 cup Passion Fruit Nectar
• 2 tbsp Peanut Oil
• 1/4 cup Soy Sauce
• 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp Ginger (grated)
• 1 tsp Allspice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Combine pineapple juice, passion fruit nectar, peanut oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and allspice in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2:

Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and turn them to coat evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Step 3:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off.

Step 4:

Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5:

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Marinate Overnight

Marinating the chicken overnight will infuse even more flavor into the meat.

Use a Meat Thermometer

Using a meat thermometer ensures your chicken is cooked to the perfect temperature without overcooking.

Resting the Chicken

Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender.

Experiment with Sauces

Try adding a different sauce like BBQ or Korean chili garlic to change up the flavor profile.

Grill Pineapple Slices

Grill some pineapple slices alongside the chicken for added sweetness and a tropical twist.

What to Serve with Yard House Maui Pineapple Chicken

Coconut Rice

Coconut rice is a fantastic side dish that pairs wonderfully with the Yard House Maui Pineapple Chicken.

The subtle sweetness and creamy texture of the coconut rice complement the tropical flavors of the chicken.

You can easily make coconut rice by cooking your white rice with coconut milk instead of water.

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are always a hit and match perfectly with the grilled chicken.

Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions are great vegetable choices.

Drizzle them with a little olive oil, sprinkle some salt, and grill them alongside your chicken!

Asian Slaw

An Asian slaw provides a fresh and crunchy contrast to the grilled chicken.

Shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light sesame dressing make this dish both refreshing and flavorful.

It’s a lighter option that balances the rich flavors of the chicken really well.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries add a delightful twist and a touch of sweetness that goes hand-in-hand with the pineapple flavors in the chicken.

They are easy to prepare and bake in the oven or fry until crispy.

Sprinkle them with a bit of sea salt for a perfect finish.

Mango Salsa

Mango salsa is a vibrant and fruity side that adds another layer of tropical flavor to your meal.

Chopped mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice create a tasty and colorful accompaniment.

It’s quick to make and adds a refreshing element to your dish.

Buttered Corn on the Cob

Buttered corn on the cob is a classic side that never disappoints.

The sweetness of the corn complements the savory and tangy notes of the pineapple chicken.

Plus, it’s simply fun and delicious to eat!

Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes

Garlic herb mashed potatoes may not be traditional but they introduce a comforting aspect to your meal.

The creamy and garlicky flavor pairs nicely with the grilled chicken and gives you a satisfying, hearty side dish option.

Variations and Substitutions

Experimenting with different flavors and ingredients can make this recipe exciting!

Marinade Options

You can swap pineapple juice for orange juice to give the chicken a zesty twist.

If you prefer a sweeter marinade, consider adding a touch of honey.

Protein Choices

Chicken thighs are great, but chicken breasts work just as well if you prefer lean meat.

Feeling adventurous? Try using shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood variation.

Spice it Up!

For a spicy kick, incorporate some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into your marinade.

Mixing Vegetables

Grilled bell peppers and zucchini can be added for extra color and flavor.

Sauce Variations

Instead of the traditional soy sauce, you can use tamari or coconut aminos for a different taste.

For a tropical flair, toss in some mango chunks or papaya.

How to Store Leftover Maui Pineapple Chicken

Cool the Chicken

First, make sure the chicken has cooled down to room temperature.

You don’t want to put hot chicken into the fridge as it can raise the fridge’s temperature.

This could affect other items stored there.

Use Airtight Containers

Transfer the chicken to an airtight container.

This will keep the flavors fresh and prevent any moisture loss.

Avoid using containers that allow air to seep in.

Store in the Refrigerator

Place the airtight container in the refrigerator.

Leftover Maui Pineapple Chicken can be safely stored for up to 3-4 days.

Remember to label the container with the date.

Freezing for Longer Storage

If you need to store it for a longer period, freezing is a good option.

Place the chicken into a freezer-safe container or plastic bag.

Try to remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Proper Thawing Techniques

When you’re ready to eat the chicken again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.

This keeps the chicken safe and delicious.

Extra Tips

If you used any garnish or fresh herbs, store them separately.

This prevents them from getting soggy or losing their vibrant flavors.

Keeping garnishes separate allows you to add a fresh touch when you re-serve the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Marinating Long Enough

Marinating the chicken for less than the recommended time can result in less flavorful meat.

Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for rich flavor and tenderness.

Turning the bag occasionally ensures the chicken soaks up the marinade evenly.

Skipping the Preheat Step

Preheating your grill is key to cooking the chicken evenly and achieving those beautiful grill marks.

If the grill is too cold, the chicken may stick and cook unevenly.

Set your grill to medium-high heat before adding the chicken to avoid any issues.

Ignoring Internal Temperature

Cooking to the correct internal temperature ensures safe and juicy chicken.

Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Cutting into the chicken to check doneness can cause you to lose precious juices, so stick to the thermometer!