Pineapple Chicken Tropichop from Pollo Tropical features tender grilled chicken marinated in tropical spices, topped with juicy pineapple chunks and served over a bed of seasoned rice and black beans, delivering a vibrant combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Saucepan or rice cooker
- Can opener
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Serving bowls or plates
- Spoon or ladle
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 (15 oz/425g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
Using fresh pineapple chunks enhances the tropical flavor and adds a juicy sweetness that balances the smoky and savory spices in the marinade. Fresh chicken breast is recommended for optimal texture, but boneless skinless thighs can be used for a juicier result. Make sure to rinse and drain canned black beans thoroughly to avoid excess sodium and maintain the dish's intended flavor profile. Proper measurement of spices like smoked paprika and cumin is crucial to replicate the authentic taste of the Tropichop marinade. Your Pineapple Chicken Tropichop from Pollo Tropical copycat menu will capture the vibrant blend of tropical spices, grilled chicken, and sweet pineapple for an irresistible meal.
Instructions
- Prepare marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Cut chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
- Place chicken pieces in the marinade; toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill marinated chicken for 4-5 minutes per side or until thoroughly cooked and lightly charred. Remove from grill and set aside.
- Cook white rice (if not already prepared) in a saucepan or rice cooker according to package instructions.
- In a saucepan, heat black beans over medium heat until warmed through.
- In a serving bowl or plate, layer a portion of rice.
- Top rice with a portion of black beans.
- Arrange grilled chicken pieces on top of rice and beans.
- Spoon pineapple chunks over the chicken.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Pineapple Chicken Tropichop copycat recipe replicates Pollo Tropical's famous dish featuring grilled chicken marinated in tropical spices, complemented by pineapple chunks, seasoned rice, and black beans for a balanced sweet and savory profile. You can substitute chicken thighs for breast if you prefer juicier meat, adjusting cooking time accordingly to ensure thorough grilling. Fresh pineapple offers a brighter, tangier flavor, but canned pineapple chunks work well if drained properly to avoid excess moisture. Using a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill yields similar smoky notes without weather concerns. If you lack black beans, pinto beans or kidney beans can be suitable alternatives without drastically changing the dish's authentic taste.
Tips
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to ensure the tropical spices fully penetrate the meat, enhancing flavor and tenderness. Use a grill or grill pan preheated to medium-high heat to achieve a perfect char without drying out the chicken. When cooking rice, measure water and rice accurately and avoid stirring to keep grains fluffy. Make sure to drain and rinse canned black beans to reduce sodium and improve taste before heating them gently.
Nutritions
Pineapple Chicken Tropichop from Pollo Tropical offers a balanced meal rich in lean protein from grilled chicken breast, essential for muscle repair and growth. The 1 cup of pineapple chunks adds vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune health and digestion. Black beans provide plant-based fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting satiety, while the cooked white rice delivers a source of carbohydrates for sustained energy. Your meal combines these nutrient-dense ingredients, creating a flavorful and wholesome dish perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner.
Storage
Store leftover Pineapple Chicken Tropichop in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and safety. Your rice, black beans, chicken, and pineapple should be stored separately or layered carefully to avoid sogginess during reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap chicken breast for boneless, skinless chicken thighs to add extra juiciness and richer flavor to Pineapple Chicken Tropichop. Instead of grilling, try pan-searing the marinated chicken in a cast-iron skillet to develop a caramelized crust when a grill is unavailable. Fresh pineapple chunks provide a bright, sweet contrast, but canned pineapple in juice can be used for convenience without sacrificing much taste. Consider stirring chopped jalapeno or chili flakes into the marinade for a subtle spicy kick that complements the sweet and smoky profile.
Allergies
Pineapple Chicken Tropichop contains soy sauce, which includes soy, a common allergen that may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. The marinade's spices and seasonings, such as garlic powder and onion powder, can cause allergies or intolerances in some people. You should check all ingredients carefully if you have food allergies, especially to soy or spices, before enjoying this meal.
Why this recipe?
Pineapple Chicken from Pollo Tropical's Tropichop menu features tender grilled chicken marinated in a blend of tropical spices, paired with sweet pineapple chunks that create a perfect balance of savory and fruity flavors. The dish is enriched with Caribbean-inspired seasonings, enhancing its authenticity and bold taste profile. Making a copycat version allows you to enjoy the unique combination of fresh, vibrant ingredients at home, while customizing spice levels and portion sizes to suit your preferences. Your culinary skills will shine by replicating this popular menu item that consistently delights fans with its refreshing and satisfying taste.