Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pineapple chicken kabobs are not only easy to make but are bursting with flavor. The marinade infuses the chicken with a tangy, slightly sweet flavor, and the pineapple adds a juicy, caramelized element when grilled. It’s a dish that offers the perfect balance of savory and sweet. You can customize the vegetables to your liking, and the kabobs cook up quickly, making them ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, they’re healthy, fun to eat, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any outdoor event.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Skewers (wooden or metal)

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

Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. This will be your marinade for the chicken.

2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).

3. While the chicken is marinating, soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 10 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.

4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

5. Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and onions onto the skewers, alternating the ingredients for a colorful presentation.

6. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

7. Remove from the grill and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes of marinating time. The grilling time is approximately 10-12 minutes.

Variations

• Add more fruit: In addition to pineapple, you can add other fruits like mango, peaches, or even strawberries for a tropical twist.

• Different meats: If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef, or pork for a different flavor profile.

• Spicy kick: For a little heat, you can add red pepper flakes or drizzle some hot sauce over the kabobs before serving.

• Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version, adding extra vegetables and fruit like zucchini or mushrooms.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the kabobs on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, though they may not retain the same grilled texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for these kabobs?

Fresh chicken is recommended for the best texture, but you can use frozen chicken as long as it’s fully thawed before marinating.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

Can I cook these kabobs in the oven?

Yes, if you don’t have a grill, you can cook these kabobs in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the kabobs on a lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated.

Can I make these kabobs on a stovetop?

You can cook the kabobs on a stovetop griddle or in a skillet, though the grill gives the best flavor. Cook the kabobs in a hot skillet for about 8-10 minutes, turning frequently.

What other vegetables can I use?

You can use any vegetables you like, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Just make sure they’re cut into similar sizes so they cook evenly.

Can I prepare these kabobs ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the kabobs ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill. Just make sure they are kept covered and chilled.

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, canned pineapple works well for these kabobs. Just drain and pat dry before using to avoid excess moisture.

How can I make the kabobs sweeter?

If you prefer sweeter kabobs, drizzle extra honey or a bit of brown sugar over the finished kabobs before serving. You can also marinate the chicken longer for a more intense flavor.

What can I serve with pineapple chicken kabobs?

These kabobs pair well with a side of rice, couscous, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with grilled vegetables or a tangy dipping sauce like yogurt or tzatziki.

Conclusion

Pineapple chicken kabobs are a flavorful and fun way to enjoy grilled chicken with a tropical twist. The combination of marinated chicken, juicy pineapple, and colorful veggies makes for a well-balanced dish that’s perfect for any grilling occasion. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a showstopper for your next BBQ, these kabobs are sure to be a hit. With a little prep time and just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy this sweet and savory treat anytime!

Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

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Pineapple chicken kabobs are a delightful combination of tender marinated chicken, juicy pineapple, and colorful vegetables, grilled to perfection for a savory-sweet experience.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Tropical
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1. 2 chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
   
   1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
   
   1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
   
   1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
   
   1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
   
   2 tablespoons olive oil
   
   3 tablespoons soy sauce
   
   1 tablespoon honey
   
   1 tablespoon lime juice
   
   2 cloves garlic, minced
   
   1 teaspoon ground ginger
   
   Salt and pepper, to taste
   
   Skewers (wooden or metal)

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Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.

1. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for more flavor).
2. While marinating, soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and onions onto the skewers, alternating ingredients for a colorful presentation.
5. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Remove from the grill and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

• Add more fruit: Include other tropical fruits like mango, peaches, or strawberries for variety.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce for heat.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on the grill or in a skillet.
• Oven method: Cook in a preheated 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes if you don’t have a grill.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 kabob
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 65mg