Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers (Printable Version)

Chicken and pineapple grilled with bold marinade, served with veggies. Ideal for outdoor summer gatherings.

# Ingredient List:

→ Poultry & Produce

01 - 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
02 - 1 medium fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
03 - 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
04 - 1 red onion, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces

→ Marinade

05 - 1/3 cup soy sauce (use gluten-free soy sauce if needed)
06 - 1/4 cup pineapple juice
07 - 2 tablespoons honey
08 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
09 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
11 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

→ Garnish

13 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
14 - Lime wedges for serving

# How to Make:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
02 - Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor infusion.
03 - If using wooden skewers, immerse them in water for 30 minutes to prevent scorching during grilling.
04 - Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F.
05 - Thread marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, bell pepper, and red onion alternately onto the skewers for even cooking.
06 - Place skewers on the grill and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating every 3 to 4 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked and outer edges show slight char.
07 - Remove skewers from the grill and allow to rest for 2 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve accompanied by lime wedges.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Each skewered bite is a colorful explosion of juicy chicken and caramelized pineapple, made even better with a quick brush of reserved marinade.
  • It's ridiculously easy to prep and becomes the centerpiece of a summer gathering every time.
02 -
  • Trying to rush the marinade makes a bland chicken; always allow for at least 30 minutes, even if you're impatient.
  • I learned the hard way that crowded skewers steam instead of sear, so leave a little room between pieces for smoky char.
03 -
  • Let the skewers rest a minute after grilling so juices settle—this prevents dry chicken.
  • Brushing reserved marinade while grilling creates a glaze that's both tangy and sweet.
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