Caribbean Grilled Chicken with Pineapple Quinoa and Roasted Plantains
Tips for Experienced Cooks
Try to use fresh pineapple instead of canned; the natural sweetness makes a big difference. When grilling the chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s perfectly cooked without drying out; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. For the quinoa, toasting it in a dry pan for a few minutes before cooking will add a nice nutty flavor.
Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple Quinoa
In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until quinoa is cooked through. Transfer to a large bowl and stir in the cubed pineapple, sliced green onions, and lime juice.
- 2 cups quinoa
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 whole pineapple (peeled, cored and cubed)
- 1 bunch green onions (thinly sliced)
- Juice of 2 limes
Step 2: Marinate and Grill the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until cooked through.
- 4 pounds chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Step 3: Roast the Plantains
Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange the plantain pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and honey, then season with salt. Roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and tender.
- 4 plantains (peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Scoop the pineapple quinoa onto plates. Top with the grilled chicken and roasted plantains. Garnish with the diced red bell pepper.
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
Meat, Eggs, & Dairy
- 4 pounds chicken thighs
Fresh Produce & Herbs
- 1 whole pineapple
- 4 whole plantain
- 1 bunch green onions
- 1 whole red bell pepper
- 2 whole lime
Pantry Items
- 2 cups quinoa
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
Seasonings & Spices
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper