Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers Recipe

These Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers are the perfect balance of juicy, savory, and tropical flavors with just the right amount of heat. Tender pieces of marinated chicken are grilled to perfection alongside caramelized pineapple chunks, creating a delicious combination of smoky, sweet, and spicy goodness. Perfect for summer BBQs, family gatherings, or weeknight dinners, these skewers are both easy to make and packed with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced flavors – Sweet pineapple complements the spicy marinade perfectly.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep time.
• Healthy and fresh – A light and nutritious meal packed with lean protein and vitamins.
• Perfect for grilling season – Ideal for backyard BBQs or summer cookouts.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level or swap in different veggies for variety.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized chunks)
• Fresh pineapple (cut into chunks)
• Olive oil
• Honey
• Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• Sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• Garlic cloves (minced)
• Lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• Ground black pepper
• Salt
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Wooden or metal skewers

Directions

1. Prepare the marinade:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, soy sauce, sriracha, garlic, lime juice, salt, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the chicken:
   • Add the chicken chunks to the marinade, tossing to coat.
   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor).
3. Assemble the skewers:
   • Thread the marinated chicken and pineapple chunks onto skewers, alternating between the two.
   • If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
4. Grill the skewers:
   • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C).
   • Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
   • Brush with leftover marinade while grilling for extra flavor.
5. Garnish and serve:
   • Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours)
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Vegetable Skewers: Add bell peppers, onions, or zucchini between the chicken and pineapple for extra color and flavor.
• Extra Spicy: Increase the sriracha or add chopped fresh jalapeños for more heat.
• Teriyaki Glaze: Swap out the honey and soy sauce for teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, Asian-inspired version.
• Lemon Herb Skewers: Replace lime juice with lemon and add fresh thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Shrimp Swap: Substitute shrimp for chicken for a seafood variation with a quicker cook time (around 5 minutes).

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and pineapple skewers in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or grill briefly until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh pineapple provides better texture and flavor. If using canned, drain the liquid and pat the pieces dry before grilling.

How do I prevent the skewers from burning?

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from catching fire.

Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through. You can also broil for a few minutes to get a nice char.

What sides go well with these skewers?

Serve with coconut rice, quinoa, grilled vegetables, or a light cucumber salad for a refreshing meal.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free as long as no butter or dairy-based sauces are added.

What’s the best cut of chicken for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well—thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

How spicy is this recipe?

It has a mild to medium level of heat, but you can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less sriracha or red pepper flakes.

Can I prep these skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the skewers up to 24 hours ahead and store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

What herbs work best for garnish?

Fresh cilantro, parsley, or green onions all add a bright and fresh finish to the dish.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and no longer be pink in the center.

Conclusion

These Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers are the perfect combination of juicy, tender chicken, caramelized pineapple, and bold, spicy-sweet flavors. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer BBQ or just want an easy weeknight dinner, these skewers are sure to become a family favorite. Pair them with your favorite sides, and enjoy a meal that’s both refreshing and satisfying!

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