Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are a tasty treat that combines juicy pieces of chicken with sweet, fresh pineapple. They are great for grilling and bursting with flavor!
These kabobs are perfect for backyard barbecues. Just thread the chicken and pineapple on sticks and let them sizzle! I love serving them with rice to soak up all those yummy juices!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps the kabobs lean and easy to cook. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option or even tofu if you want a vegetarian twist.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is best for its sweetness and juiciness, but canned pineapple can work in a pinch. Just make sure to drain it well. For a different flavor, try mango or bell peppers!
Soy Sauce: This gives the marinade its salty and savory kick. If you need a low-sodium option, you can find reduced-sodium soy sauce. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative as well.
Honey: Honey adds a nice sweetness that balances the soy sauce. If you’re vegan, maple syrup or agave nectar makes a perfect substitute.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Juicy on the Grill?
Marinating the chicken is key to keeping it juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use a resealable bag or bowl to let the chicken soak up all the marinade.
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can spare 2 hours, it really enhances the flavor.
- When grilling, make sure the grill is hot. This helps to sear the chicken quickly, sealing in the juices.
- Turn the skewers occasionally to cook evenly and get those nice grill marks.
With these tips, your chicken kabobs will be a hit!
How to Make Pineapple Chicken Kabobs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken (up to 2 hours if you have time). The grilling will take about 10-15 minutes. In total, you should plan for around 1 hour or more, depending on marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, black pepper, and salt until everything is well combined. This marinade will give your chicken a delicious flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Put the chicken cubes into a resealable plastic bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag or cover the bowl, and then place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours if you want even more flavor).
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your kabobs cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks!
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once the chicken is ready, take the skewers and thread the marinated chicken and pineapple chunks onto them, alternating between the chicken and the pineapple for a nice balance of flavors. Make sure to leave some space between the pieces for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the assembled skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-15 minutes. Be sure to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks. You want the chicken to be fully cooked through!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the kabobs from the grill. Garnish with fresh chopped chives for an extra pop of color and flavor. Serve with any additional dipping sauce you like. Enjoy your delicious Pineapple Chicken Kabobs!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp or firm tofu work great as alternatives. For shrimp, use large, peeled shrimp and marinate for about 15-20 minutes. If using tofu, make sure to press it to remove excess moisture before cubing and marinating.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Pineapple?
No worries! You can use canned pineapple chunks, just drain them well before adding to the skewers. Alternatively, fresh peaches or bell peppers can be a delicious substitute as well!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 2 hours in advance. Just make sure to keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. If you’re prepping the kabobs completely, store them covered in the fridge for several hours, but it’s best to grill them fresh for the best texture.
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or warm them up in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Enjoy them on their own or toss them into a salad for a quick meal!
