Pineapple Chicken Skewers are the perfect dish for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners! These juicy, marinated chicken pieces are paired with sweet pineapple chunks, creating a delightful combination of flavors that everyone will adore. Not only are they a breeze to prepare, but they also cook quickly on the grill, making them an ideal choice for busy nights filled with outdoor fun.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken Skewers
- How to Make Pineapple Chicken Skewers
- Tips for Making Pineapple Chicken Skewers
- Make-Ahead Instructions
- Storing Leftovers
- Freezing
- Reheating
- Serving Suggestions
- FAQs
- Try these Pineapple Chicken Skewers related recipes next!
- Grilled Veggie Skewers
- Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
- Spicy Shrimp Skewers
- BBQ Beef Skewers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bright and Flavorful. The combination of juicy chicken and sweet pineapple brings together a mouthwatering blend of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Quick and Easy Preparation. These skewers come together in no time, making them an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or impromptu get-togethers.
- Perfect for Grilling. These skewers are designed for the grill, adding a smoky flavor that truly elevates the dish.
- Healthier Option. Packed with protein and nutritious pineapple, this dish is nutritious while still being extremely tasty!
Ingredients for Pineapple Chicken Skewers
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works best for these skewers, as it’s lean and grills beautifully.
- Fresh Pineapple: Sweet and juicy pineapple chunks that caramelize beautifully on the grill.
- Vegetable Oil: Used for marinating the chicken and helping it stay moist when grilling.
- Soy Sauce: Adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the chicken and pineapple perfectly.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the marinade with aromatic flavor.
- Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a distinct zing to the mix, balancing the sweetness of the pineapple.
- Honey: A hint of sweetness from honey enhances the overall flavor of the skewers.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a tangy kick and brightens the flavors.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, bringing all the flavors together.
How to Make Pineapple Chicken Skewers
- In a large bowl, mix together vegetable oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Add bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
- In the meantime, chop fresh pineapple into chunks, ensuring they are similar in size to the chicken pieces for even cooking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and thread chicken and pineapple onto skewers, alternating between them.
- Once the grill is ready, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Making Pineapple Chicken Skewers
- Soak Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Uniform Sizes: Cut chicken and pineapple into similar sizes to ensure even cooking on the grill.
- Marinate: Don’t rush the marinating process! The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- You can marinate the chicken and pineapple up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Assemble the skewers and keep them wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for a few hours prior to grilling.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill until warmed through.
Freezing Pineapple Chicken Skewers
- Assemble the skewers and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid.
- Once frozen, transfer the skewers to a freezer bag, and they can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pineapple Chicken Skewers
- Reheat leftovers in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Alternatively, heat on the grill for a few minutes until warmed and enjoy fresh flavors.
Serving Suggestions
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breast for added flavor and tenderness.
What can I serve with these skewers?
These skewers go great with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables.
Can I make these skewers in the oven?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a lined baking tray. Bake for about 15-20 minutes.
How can I tell when the chicken is done?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I use canned pineapple for this recipe?
While fresh pineapple is preferable, canned pineapple can work in a pinch! Just be sure to drain it well.
