Crispy Pineapple Chicken on the Blackstone Grill: Sweet & Savory Recipe

Blackstone Pineapple Chicken is a sweet-and-savory griddle meal ideal for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken cooks quickly on the flat top and is coated in a homemade pineapple sauce for a family-friendly dish that’s fun to serve and simple to prepare.

This Blackstone pineapple chicken is budget-friendly, easy to customize, and feeds a crowd without heating up the kitchen.

Pineapple Chicken in the hollow part of a whole pineapple

We love testing new recipes on the Blackstone griddle, and this pineapple bowl presentation is a favorite. The marinade and sauce bring the bright sweet-and-salty flavors that make this one of our top Blackstone chicken recipes.

Why We Love This Blackstone Pineapple Chicken

  • Cooks fast on the flat top—perfect for weeknights
  • Uses pantry staples you likely already have
  • Affordable protein that stretches to feed a family
  • Fun pineapple bowl presentation that appeals to kids
  • Works great for meal prep and tasty leftovers

This recipe is an easy way to change up weeknight dinners without extra fuss.

Recipe Snapshot

  • Flavor: Sweet and savory
  • Cooking Method: Blackstone griddle (or skillet)
  • Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
  • Family-Friendly: Yes
  • Budget Tip: Swap chicken breasts for thighs to save money
  • Best For: Weeknight grilling, summer dinners, meal prep

Ingredients

Pineapple Chicken ingredients - pineapple, chicken, avocado oil, salt, pepper, pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, cornstarch
  • Whole pineapple – Fresh pineapple offers the best flavor and creates a natural serving bowl. Choose one that smells sweet at the base and has a golden color. Canned pineapple chunks in juice can be used if needed.
  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into even strips for consistent cooking. Boneless chicken thighs are a juicy, budget-friendly alternative.
  • Avocado oil – High smoke point oil ideal for a hot flat top. Vegetable or canola oil will also work.
  • Salt and pepper – Simple seasoning to enhance the sauce.
  • Pineapple juice – Use fresh juice from the pineapple or canned pineapple juice for the sauce base.
  • Soy sauce – Adds savory depth and balances sweetness; choose low-sodium if preferred.
  • Honey – Adds sweetness and slight thickness; brown sugar can substitute.
  • Garlic – 1 clove, minced for bold flavor.
  • Ginger – 1 teaspoon grated for warmth; ½ teaspoon ground ginger works in a pinch.
  • Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon mixed with 2 tablespoons water to make a slurry for thickening the sauce.

How to Make Blackstone Pineapple Chicken

Half pineapple hollow

Step 1 – Slice the pineapple in half lengthwise and hollow out each half, keeping the shell intact to use as a serving bowl. Chop the pineapple flesh into bite-sized pieces and reserve the juice for the sauce.

Uncooked chicken breast on a plate seasoned with salt and pepper

Step 2 – Preheat the Blackstone to medium-high and lightly oil the surface. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook about 6–7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then rest and slice into strips.

Pineapple juice in a large pot with a bowl of honey and soy sauce

Step 3 – Place a saucepan on the griddle and combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring to a gentle simmer.

A large pot combined with soy sauce, honey and pineapple juice. With two bowls of minced garlic and pineapple pieces

Step 4 – Mix the cornstarch with water to form a smooth slurry. Whisk it into the simmering sauce and cook until thickened, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5 – Toss the pineapple pieces on the griddle to caramelize slightly, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 6 – Return the sliced chicken to the griddle to reheat, add the caramelized pineapple, and pour the sauce over the mixture. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 7 – Spoon the pineapple chicken into the hollowed pineapple halves and garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving.

Pineapple chicken on a plate over white rice and large pineapple in the background with pineapple chicken

Tips for Cooking Pineapple Chicken on the Blackstone

  • Cornstarch slurry: Use the slurry to achieve a sauce that coats the chicken and pineapple without being too thick. Adjust the cornstarch amount to change the consistency.
  • Even-size chicken pieces: Cut the chicken into uniform strips so they cook in the same time.
  • Preheat and oil: Preheat the griddle and add oil to prevent sticking and promote browning.
  • Don’t overcrowd: Cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming and ensure even caramelization.
  • Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.

Variation Ideas

  • Protein swap: Use boneless skinless chicken thighs or tenders instead of breasts.
  • Store-bought sauce: Substitute a teriyaki or Hawaiian-style bottled sauce for a shortcut.
  • Add vegetables: Stir in red bell pepper, broccoli, red onion, or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
Pineapple chicken in whole pineapple halves

Serving Suggestions

Slice or shred the cooked chicken and toss it with the pineapple and sauce. Serve the mixture in the hollowed pineapple for an eye-catching presentation. Pair with steamed white rice topped with green onions and sesame seeds for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes—use canned pineapple chunks in juice and reserve the juice for the sauce.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely. Boneless thighs are often more affordable and stay juicy on the griddle.

Can I make this without a Blackstone?

Yes. Cook in a large skillet on the stovetop or on any flat-top grill.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes—this recipe stores well for meal prep, though it tastes best when served fresh.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.

A plate of white rice topped with Blackstone pineapple chicken, sliced green onions, and sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Blackstone Pineapple Chicken

Blackstone Pineapple Chicken is a quick, family-friendly dish with bright sweet-and-savory flavors perfect for weeknights.
Prep Time 30
Cook Time 20
Total Time 50
Servings 4
Cuisine American
Course Main Course
Calories 377
Author Carrie Barnard

Ingredients

  • 1 whole pineapple
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

  • Cut the pineapple in half lengthwise, hollow out each half, and chop the flesh into bite-sized pieces. Reserve the juice for the sauce.
  • Preheat the Blackstone to medium-high. Season chicken with salt and pepper and drizzle oil on the griddle.
  • Cook chicken about 6–7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove, rest briefly, then slice into strips.
  • In a saucepan on the griddle, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer.
  • Whisk the cornstarch slurry into the sauce and cook until thickened, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat.
  • Caramelize pineapple pieces on the griddle for 2–3 minutes.
  • Return chicken to the griddle with the pineapple, pour on the sauce, and toss to coat.
  • Spoon the mixture into the hollow pineapple halves and garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions.

Recipe Notes

The cornstarch slurry is key to a well-coated sauce—adjust quantity to reach your preferred thickness.

Nutrition Facts

Calories 377kcal

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We’d love to hear how your Blackstone Pineapple Chicken turns out. If you try this recipe, leave a comment and rating to help other home cooks find and enjoy it.