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Grilled chicken and vegetable skewers with colorful peppers, onions, and pineapple, perfect for summer grilling, outdoor BBQs, and healthy eating. Delicious, easy-to-make skewers for backyard cookouts.

Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers


Description

A tropical-inspired dish that combines tender marinated chicken with sweet pineapple and colorful vegetables for the perfect balance of flavors in every bite.

Prep Time: 40 minutes (including marinating) | Cook Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 52 minutes | Servings: 4

Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers


Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch uniform cubes
  • 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (1-inch pieces)
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey (local variety preferred)
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 810 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Cut chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking throughout.
  2. In bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Add chicken cubes to marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Refrigerate for 30 minutes minimum, maximum 2 hours.
  4. While chicken marinates, soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning during grilling.
  5. Cut pineapple, bell pepper, and red onion into uniform chunks roughly same size as chicken.
  6. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and ensure grates are clean and lightly oiled.
  7. Thread marinated chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, and onion onto skewers, alternating for colorful presentation.
  8. Leave small spaces between pieces for even heat circulation and cooking.
  9. Grill skewers 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
  10. Look for beautiful grill marks and caramelized pineapple before removing from heat.
  11. Serve immediately while hot with any remaining marinade as sauce.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 285
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Vitamin C: 85% DV (from pineapple and bell pepper)
  • Selenium: 25% DV (from chicken)

High in lean protein and vitamin C, with natural fruit sugars providing energy.

Notes:

  • Don’t marinate longer than 2 hours—pineapple enzymes will over-tenderize chicken
  • Cut all ingredients to similar sizes for even cooking
  • Soak wooden skewers thoroughly to prevent burning
  • Use meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches safe 165°F temperature
  • Fresh pineapple works much better than canned for grilling

Storage Tips:

  • Marinate chicken up to 4 hours ahead for enhanced flavor
  • Store grilled leftovers refrigerated up to 3 days
  • Reheat gently to prevent drying out the chicken
  • Leftover components great in salads and grain bowls

Serving Suggestions:

  • Hawaiian theme: Serve with coconut rice and tropical fruit salad
  • BBQ party: Perfect alongside other grilled favorites
  • Healthy dinner: Pair with quinoa and steamed vegetables
  • Summer entertaining: Beautiful presentation for outdoor dining

Mix It Up (Recipe Variations):

  • Spicy Style: Add minced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to marinade
  • Asian Fusion: Include fresh ginger and sesame oil in marinade
  • Citrus Twist: Add orange or lime zest for extra tropical flavor
  • Vegetarian Option: Use firm tofu instead of chicken with same marinade

What Makes This Recipe Special:

These skewers showcase the brilliant combination of sweet and savory that defines Hawaiian cuisine, using pineapple’s natural enzymes to tenderize chicken while creating caramelized flavors through grilling. The colorful presentation and tropical taste profile transform ordinary grilling into a vacation-worthy dining experience that brings the spirit of the islands to any backyard.