If you’re looking to elevate your summer grilling game, these Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers are exactly what you need. With the perfect balance of sweet pineapple, smoky grilled chicken, and a tangy-sweet marinade, this tropical BBQ recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a beach-themed party, or just want a fun and flavorful dinner, these skewers will quickly become your go-to recipe.
This dish is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The caramelized pineapple adds a vibrant, juicy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory marinated chicken, creating a tropical harmony of flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes of cook time, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or relaxing weekend get-togethers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Prep ahead and grill in just 10–12 minutes.
- Sweet & Savory Flavor: The marinade offers a balanced taste with honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and garlic.
- Perfect for Summer: Light, tropical, and perfect for BBQs or outdoor gatherings.
- Versatile: Can be served with rice, salads, or inside wraps or tacos.
- Kid-Friendly: The fun skewer format makes it appealing for kids and picky eaters.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple pantry staples and fresh produce for a flavorful, tropical combination.
- ½ cup olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- ½ cup low sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup rice wine vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2–3 drops toasted sesame seed oil (optional, but recommended for depth)
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2″ chunks
- 1 whole fresh pineapple, cut into 2″ chunks
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the following:
- ½ cup olive oil
- ½ cup low sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup rice wine vinegar
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Optional: 2–3 drops of toasted sesame oil for extra depth
Whisk until fully combined and smooth. The mixture should be slightly thick with a rich aroma.
2. Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken chunks into a large zip-top bag or shallow dish.
- Pour in the marinade, reserving about ¼ cup for basting later.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 4 hours for more intense flavor).
3. Prep the Skewers
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Alternate threading marinated chicken chunks and pineapple pieces onto the skewers, ensuring each skewer has a balanced amount of both.
4. Preheat the Grill
Set your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil the grates or use nonstick grill spray to avoid sticking.
5. Grill the Skewers
- Place skewers directly over heat and grill for 10–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Brush with the reserved marinade halfway through grilling.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest & Serve
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 3–5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.
Serving Suggestions
These Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of sides to make it a complete tropical feast.
Best Sides to Serve:
- Coconut Rice: Add sweetness and tropical flavor.
- Grilled Veggies: Zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions pair beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A crisp slaw with lime or mango dressing complements the skewers perfectly.
- Fresh Salad: Try mixed greens with citrus vinaigrette for a light option.
- Flatbread or Pita: Serve with tzatziki or garlic sauce for a Mediterranean twist.
Tips for Perfect Skewers Every Time
- Uniform Cuts: Cut the chicken and pineapple into even pieces for consistent cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Leave a little space between pieces on the skewer for even grilling.
- Use Fresh Pineapple: Fresh is key—canned won’t caramelize or hold shape as well.
- Keep Basting Sauce Separate: Always reserve a clean portion of marinade for basting to avoid contamination.
- Oil the Grill: Prevent sticking and tearing by oiling the grates before grilling.
Make It Your Own
Spicy Version
Craving more heat? Add sriracha or a teaspoon of chili paste to the marinade. You can also sprinkle cayenne pepper over the skewers before grilling.
Vegetarian Option
Swap out the chicken for chunks of tofu or halloumi. Make sure to press tofu well and use a grill basket if needed.
More Protein
Alternate with shrimp or chunks of pork for a surf-and-turf or mixed grill experience.
Add Veggies
Try adding bell peppers, red onions, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for extra color, texture, and nutrients.
Storage & Reheating
Storing Leftovers
- Remove leftovers from skewers and place in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating Tips
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals to prevent overcooking.
- Oven: Reheat at 300°F for 10–12 minutes for more even heating.
- Skillet: Add a splash of water or sauce to a hot pan and reheat gently.
Make-Ahead & Freezing
Make Ahead
- Marinate the chicken the night before for even deeper flavor.
- Pre-thread the skewers and refrigerate them (covered) up to 8 hours before grilling.
Freezing
- You can freeze the raw marinated chicken for up to 2 months—just defrost in the fridge overnight before using.
- Do not freeze pineapple as it becomes watery and mushy when thawed.
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 27g
- Carbs: 18g
- Sugar: 14g
- Fat: 18g
- Sodium: 680mg
Note: Nutritional data will vary depending on the size of chicken chunks and amount of pineapple per skewer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these without a grill?
Yes! You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil them in the oven. Just keep an eye on them and rotate every few minutes.
Can I use canned pineapple?
While possible, fresh pineapple is highly recommended. Canned pineapple is softer, more watery, and lacks the texture needed for grilling.
How do I prevent chicken from drying out?
Don’t overcook. Use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let it rest before serving to keep the juices locked in.
Can I make this spicy?
Absolutely. Add more red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Are these good for meal prep?
Yes. You can prepare and store cooked skewers for up to 3 days in the fridge. They’re great in salads, wraps, or over rice bowls.
Final Thoughts
These Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers are the ultimate tropical BBQ dish—delicious, colorful, and endlessly customizable. With a quick prep and a short grill time, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners, outdoor entertaining, or simply adding some sunshine to your plate.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, this easy recipe brings vacation vibes straight to your backyard. Juicy marinated chicken, sweet pineapple, and a hint of char from the grill make every bite unforgettable. Don’t forget to serve it with a tropical drink and your favorite summer playlist!
Fire up the grill and give these irresistible skewers a try tonight—you’ll be hooked after just one bite!
Pin It For Later!
Love this recipe? Save it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can easily find it later!