Spice-Rubbed Grilled Chicken with Charred Pineapple Salsa

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned with a smoky spice rub served alongside a vibrant charred pineapple salsa for a refreshing contrast. This caribbean-inspired chicken (gluten free) ready in about 30 minutes blends paprika, ground cumin, 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 350 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: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Caribbean cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, mix 2 tsp paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper to create the spice rub. Rub evenly over 4 chicken breasts.
  2. Step 2: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.
  3. Step 3: While chicken cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a grill pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 cup pineapple chunks and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and caramelized.
  4. Step 4: In a bowl, combine charred pineapple, 1 small diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 1 minced jalapeño, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tbsp lime juice, and remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Stir to combine.
  5. Step 5: Serve grilled chicken topped with pineapple salsa for a balance of smoky and sweet flavors.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Spice-Rubbed Grilled Chicken with Charred Pineapple Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 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 Spice-Rubbed Grilled Chicken with Charred 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 Spice-Rubbed Grilled Chicken with Charred 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 Spice-Rubbed Grilled Chicken with Charred 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 Spice-Rubbed Grilled Chicken with Charred 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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