Grilled Lemongrass Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
Tender chicken thighs marinated in aromatic lemongrass and garlic, paired with a vibrant pineapple salsa that balances sweet and tangy notes for a tropical dinner. This asian-inspired chicken ready in about 39 minutes blends boneless chicken thighs, lemongrass paste, garlic powder 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 385 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.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp lemongrass paste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup, diced pineapple
- 1/2 cup, diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup, finely chopped red onion
- 2 tbsp, chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Pound 1 lb boneless chicken thighs to 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet, then rub with 2 tbsp lemongrass paste, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tbsp olive oil, pressing to adhere.
- Step 2: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and edges are golden.
- Step 3: While chicken cooks, combine 1 cup diced pineapple, 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup chopped red onion, and 2 tbsp chopped cilantro in a bowl. Toss with 1 tbsp lime juice and set aside.
- Step 4: Let chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with pineapple salsa spooned over top.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Grilled Lemongrass Chicken with Pineapple Salsa take to make?
Total time is about 39 minutes (25 min prep + 14 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Grilled Lemongrass 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 Lemongrass 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 Lemongrass 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.
What goes well with Grilled Lemongrass Chicken with Pineapple Salsa?
Asian chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
What others are saying
- ★★★★☆
Nice recipe! Presentation was beautiful. Flavor was good, not great.
- ★★★★☆
Tasty recipe. I'd add a bit more seasoning next time.
- ★★★☆☆
Not bad. Would need significant modifications to make it a regular.
