Grilled Chicken Pineapple Skewers

These grilled chicken pineapple skewers bring out everything I love about outdoor cooking juicy marinated chicken threaded with sweet pineapple and colorful peppers transforming a simple grill session into a laid back tropical meal fit for any summer gathering or family BBQ

When I first tested this recipe on a sunny weekend with friends in my backyard the smoky grill mixed with the pineapple sweetness made it an instant favorite and now it is my go to for any relaxed cookout

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose plump pieces and trim for even cooking
• Soy sauce: Provides rich saltiness Opt for gluten free if needed
• Pineapple juice: Tenderizes meat and boosts tropical flavor Go for 100 percent juice not from concentrate
• Brown sugar: Adds subtle sweetness Make sure it is fresh and soft
• Olive oil: Binds marinade and enhances browning Use extra virgin for best flavor
• Fresh garlic: Lends bold aroma and depth Mince it right before use
• Fresh ginger: Brightens everything with a gentle kick Choose firm wrinkle free
• Black pepper: Finishes off the marinade with warmth Grind it fresh if possible
• Fresh pineapple: Sweetens and caramelizes with grilling Pick one with a fragrant base and bright gold skin
• Red bell pepper: Gives vivid color and crunch Choose glossy and heavy for size
• Green bell pepper: Adds contrast and grassy bite Look for firm unblemished
• Red onion: Turns sweet and mellow on the grill Pick one with tight skin
• Wooden or metal skewers: Wooden needs soaking to prevent burning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Marinade:

Combine soy sauce pineapple juice brown sugar olive oil minced garlic grated ginger and black pepper in a large bowl Whisk until the sugar dissolves and it smells inviting

Marinate the Chicken:

Add chicken cubes to the bowl Toss until every piece is glossy and coated Cover with wrap and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes If you have time let it go up to four hours for deeper flavor

Prepare Skewers:

If using wooden skewers soak them in water for at least half an hour This prevents burning Trim ingredients so they are all roughly the same size for even cooking

Preheat the Grill:

Set your grill to medium high heat Aim for about four hundred degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred degrees Celsius If you are using a grill pan make sure it is hot

Thread the Skewers:

Starting with chicken alternate with pineapple bell peppers and red onion on each skewer This not only looks appealing but guarantees every bite has a mix of flavors Aim to leave a little space between pieces so everything chars nicely

Grill the Skewers:

Oil the grill grates lightly Use tongs to arrange skewers over direct heat Grill them for about twelve to fifteen minutes turning every three to four minutes Watch for the chicken to turn golden and lightly charred with juices running clear

Serve and Enjoy:

Once the chicken is cooked through plate the skewers hot Scatter with chopped cilantro or sliced green onion if you want that fresh finish Enjoy with fluffy rice or grilled corn for the full experience

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My favorite thing about this dish is the way the pineapple caramelizes on the grill The sweet sticky juice mingles with the charred bits on the chicken and it always reminds me of lazy vacation days where everyone ends up around a picnic table laughing with sticky fingers Last summer the kids made a game out of who could stack the tallest skewer without it falling

Storage Tips

Let the skewers cool before storing If you have leftovers remove from skewers and refrigerate in a sealed container for up to three days For longer storage freeze cooked pieces flat then transfer to a container and use within two months

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken breast for boneless thighs to make the skewers even juicier For a vegetarian take use cubes of firm tofu or halloumi cheese Marinate as you would the chicken and grill until golden

Serving Suggestions

Pile the skewers over a bed of fragrant jasmine rice or offer them in warm flatbreads with a scoop of fresh salsa I love to set out a platter with crispy grilled corn on the cob and tangy pickled slaw for a really festive meal

Cultural and Historical Context

Skewered meats trace back to traditional Polynesian feasts where grilling over an open flame was a communal activity This Hawaiian style version is a nod to huli huli chicken a classic island barbecue dish where pineapple adds that coastal tropical twist

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Common Questions

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy on the grill?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and avoid overcooking. Grill over medium-high heat until just cooked through and still tender.

→ Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs offer extra juiciness and richness. Cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking on the skewers.

→ Is there a way to make these skewers spicier?

Add chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade to give your skewers a spicy kick to balance the sweet pineapple.

→ What's the best way to prevent wooden skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from catching fire or scorching.

→ Are these skewers suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes—simply use gluten-free soy sauce to keep the meal gluten-free, making it ideal for various dietary needs.

→ What are the best sides to serve with these skewers?

Serve with steamed jasmine rice, grilled corn, or a fresh green salad for a colorful, satisfying meal.