It’s a sunny afternoon, and the smell of grilled chicken and pineapple skewers wafts through the air, making your taste buds dance with anticipation. Picture tender pieces of chicken marinated in a zesty blend of spices, mingling with juicy pineapple chunks that caramelize just enough to create a sweet-tangy flavor explosion.
This dish doesn’t just satisfy hunger; it brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a casual dinner, grilled chicken and pineapple skewers are sure to steal the show and make you the star of your cooking domain.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These grilled chicken and pineapple skewers are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for any busy weeknight
- The sweet and savory flavors create an unforgettable taste experience that everyone will love
- Visually stunning with their vibrant colors, they add flair to any meal presentation
- Perfect for grilling outdoors but versatile enough for indoor cooking as well
My friends still rave about that summer BBQ when I first served these skewers—everyone went back for seconds, and my husband almost engaged in a culinary duel over the last one.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use 3-4 breasts for around four servings; adjust based on your guest list.
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Fresh Pineapple: Opt for ripe pineapples; they should be sweet and fragrant for maximum flavor.
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Bell Peppers: Choose a mix of colors like red, yellow, and green for visual appeal and sweetness.
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Red Onion: Adds a nice bite; look for firm onions without soft spots.
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Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor while helping prevent sticking on the grill.
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Soy Sauce: Low-sodium is best to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
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Honey: A touch of honey adds natural sweetness that balances the marinade perfectly.
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Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the entire dish with its zesty punch.
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Spices (Garlic Powder, Paprika): Use these to elevate the flavor profile; smoked paprika adds a delicious depth.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic powder, and paprika. Whisk until blended; it should smell heavenly!
Chop Your Ingredients: Dice the chicken into uniform cubes for even cooking. Cut the bell peppers and red onion into similar-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.
Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken cubes into a resealable bag or bowl. Pour half of your marinade over them. Seal or cover tightly; let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Skewer It Up!: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers alternately with pineapple and veggies. Aim for color – it makes everything more appealing!
Grill Those Skewers!: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Grill skewers for about 10-15 minutes total, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through.
Serve & Enjoy!: Remove from grill once charred slightly yet juicy. Serve immediately with remaining marinade drizzled over or as a dipping sauce on the side.
And there you have it—delicious grilled chicken and pineapple skewers ready to impress!
You Must Know
- Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers are a delightful burst of flavor
- The sweetness of pineapple paired with savory chicken creates a perfect harmony that will impress anyone at your barbecue
- Plus, this dish is easy to prepare and fun to enjoy outdoors with friends
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, then skewering it with pineapple chunks before grilling them over medium heat. This ensures even cooking and enhances the flavors beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or use different fruits like bell peppers or zucchini. Adding spices like cumin or chili powder can also elevate the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through; avoid microwaving to keep them from getting soggy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your grill is preheated before adding skewers to prevent sticking
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to avoid burning on the grill
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach 165°F for safety
Sometimes I wonder if my neighbors think I host a chicken and pineapple party every weekend. The aroma wafting through the air always draws compliments, especially when friends gather around my grill, ready for delicious skewers.
FAQ
What type of chicken is best for Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts, making them ideal.
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the skewers in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill them.
What dipping sauces pair well with Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers?
Try a tangy teriyaki sauce or a spicy sriracha mayo for added flavor contrast!
Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making them an irresistible addition to any gathering. Tender chicken marinated in a zesty mixture pairs beautifully with juicy pineapple and colorful veggies, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but visually stunning. Ideal for barbecues or casual dinners, these skewers are simple to prepare and guaranteed to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 ripe pineapple, cut into chunks
- 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to create the marinade.
- Cut chicken into uniform cubes and place in a resealable bag with half of the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers alternately with pineapple chunks and veggies.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F). Grill skewers for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve warm with remaining marinade as a dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor variations, substitute chicken with shrimp or add other vegetables like zucchini. - Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.