Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers

Name: Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces); 1 ripe pineapple (peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch pieces); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); Salt and pepper (to taste); Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Published: July 5, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up these skewers in no time.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of soy sauce and honey creates a delicious glaze that perfectly complements the grilled chicken and pineapple.
Versatile Dish: Ideal for summer grilling or cozy indoor meals, they fit various occasions, from casual get-togethers to festive parties.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients from chicken and pineapple, these skewers make for a balanced meal choice.
Kid-Friendly: Kids love the fun of eating food off sticks, making this an ideal choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skewers (wooden or metal)
Grill
Mixing bowl
Marinade brush (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

Skewers: Essential for holding the chicken and pineapple together while grilling. Wooden skewers must be soaked to prevent burning.
Grill: Provides high heat for perfect grill marks and a smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
Mixing bowl: Necessary for marinating the chicken evenly in the soy honey glaze.

Ingredients

Juicy chicken and sweet pineapple skewers, grilled to perfection.

For the Skewers

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Skewers (wooden or metal)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers

Step 1: Soak the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well until combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Ensure all pieces are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will give your skewers nice grill marks while cooking them through.

Step 5: Assemble the Skewers

Thread marinated chicken pieces and pineapple onto skewers alternately. Aim for a balance of chicken and fruit on each skewer.

Step 6: Grill the Skewers

Place the assembled skewers on the grill. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks.

Step 7: Serve Enjoyably

Serve immediately after grilling. For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with finely chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers

Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers are versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether at a summer barbecue or a casual family dinner, these skewers can be the highlight of your meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salads

Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
Mixed Green Salad: Light greens with a tangy vinaigrette balance the richness of the chicken.

Add Dipping Sauces

Chili Lime Sauce: A zesty dip that adds a spicy twist to the sweet and savory flavors.
Creamy Garlic Dip: A smooth sauce that enhances the grilled taste of the chicken.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Cilantro or Parsley: Chopped fresh herbs add color and a burst of freshness to your skewers.
Green Onions: Sprinkled on top for added crunch and flavor.

Serve with Rice or Quinoa

Coconut Rice: The mild coconut flavor pairs nicely with the tropical theme.
Lemon Quinoa: A refreshing side that adds texture and a citrusy zing.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers

To achieve the ultimate Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers, keep these tips in mind. They will help you master this delicious dish.

Bold Marination: Ensure you marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes; overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
Uniform Pieces: Cut chicken and pineapple into similar sizes for even cooking on the grill.
Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill creates perfect sear marks and helps prevent sticking.
Turn Carefully: Use tongs to turn skewers gently, avoiding damage to the chicken or pineapple pieces.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers

Complementing your Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers with suitable side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options:

Garlic Bread: Toasted slices brushed with garlic butter add a crunchy texture.
Coleslaw: Crisp cabbage slaw provides a refreshing contrast to warm skewers.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring vibrant colors and flavors.
Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers comfort that pairs well with grilled dishes.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is a classic summer side that everyone loves.
Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans add richness and depth, balancing the sweetness of pineapple.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are a few common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Skipping the marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes for maximum taste.
Using dry skewers: If you use wooden skewers without soaking them, they may burn on the grill. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Not preheating the grill: Starting with a cold grill can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure perfectly cooked skewers.
Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too much onto each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to leave space between pieces of chicken and pineapple for even heat distribution.
Ignoring doneness: Undercooking or overcooking the chicken can ruin your dish. Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container.
They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers

Wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place wrapped skewers in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Arrange skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until hot.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook the skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to cut chicken for Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers?

Cutting the chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces ensures even cooking. This helps each piece cook thoroughly while maintaining juiciness.

Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?

Yes! You can try peaches, bell peppers, or zucchini as alternatives. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even grilling.

How long do Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers take to cook?

Typically, these skewers take about 10-12 minutes on medium-high heat. Always check that chicken is fully cooked before serving.

Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers ahead of time. Just keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile, perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the protein. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the delightful combination of juicy chicken and sweet pineapple!

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