Chicken Pineapple Skewers are a perfect combination of savory chicken and sweet pineapple, grilled to perfection. These skewers are great for BBQs, gatherings, or a simple weeknight meal. The tangy marinade enhances the flavor, creating a deliciously juicy and flavorful dish.
Chicken Pineapple Skewers Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
Marinade:
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp pineapple juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sriracha or chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Garnishes:
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, olive oil, pineapple juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, vinegar, black pepper, and sriracha or chili flakes (if using).
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, stirring to coat them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Assemble the Skewers:
- Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, and red onion onto the skewers, alternating between each item.
- Grill the Skewers:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The pineapple and veggies should have a nice char.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the skewers are done, remove them from the grill. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve the skewers hot with a side of rice, salad, or a dipping sauce of your choice.
Tips:
- Oven Option: If you don’t have a grill, bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Add-Ons: You can add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to the skewers for more variety.
Enjoy!
These Chicken Pineapple Skewers are a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Perfect for summer cookouts or any time you’re craving a tropical twist on your grilled meals!