Grilled Citrus-Pepper Chicken with Pineapple Salsa

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender grilled chicken breast marinated in zesty citrus and black pepper, topped with a refreshing pineapple salsa that adds a sweet and tangy crunch. This caribbean-inspired chicken (gluten free) ready in about 50 minutes blends (6 oz each) chicken breasts, orange juice, lime juice into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 35 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Caribbean cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup orange juice, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 3 tbsp olive oil, and 1 tsp salt. Add 4 chicken breasts (6 oz each) and marinate for 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
  2. Step 2: While the chicken marinates, prepare the pineapple salsa by mixing 1 cup diced pineapple, 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, and 1 small minced jalapeño. Set aside.
  3. Step 3: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6–7 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.
  4. Step 4: Transfer the grilled chicken to a platter and spoon the pineapple salsa evenly over the top. Serve immediately for a bright and flavorful meal.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Grilled Citrus-Pepper Chicken with Pineapple Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 50 minutes (35 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Grilled Citrus-Pepper Chicken with Pineapple Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Grilled Citrus-Pepper Chicken with Pineapple Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Grilled Citrus-Pepper Chicken with Pineapple Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Grilled Citrus-Pepper Chicken with Pineapple Salsa gluten free?

Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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