Description
These Pineapple Chicken Kabobs combine juicy marinated chicken with sweet pineapple chunks, grilled to perfection for a flavorful and easy meal. The marinade features soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and a hint of sesame oil for a delicious Asian-inspired taste that’s perfect for summer grilling.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken & Marinade
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
Additional
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Optional garnish: chopped cilantro or green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and rice vinegar or lime juice. Set aside a few tablespoons of this marinade for basting the kabobs later on.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken chunks in a zip-top bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 4 hours to absorb the flavors.
- Assemble Kabobs: Thread the marinated chicken pieces and fresh pineapple chunks alternately onto the skewers, ensuring even distribution and securing them well.
- Preheat Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Kabobs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side. While grilling, brush the kabobs with the reserved marinade to enhance flavor and keep them moist until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest briefly. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired before serving.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Chicken thighs will yield juicier kabobs, while chicken breasts are leaner.
- Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor; canned pineapple can add extra sweetness but also more liquid.
- Ensure grill is properly oiled to avoid sticking.
- Adjust marinade time depending on your schedule; longer marinating infuses more flavor.
- Check chicken’s internal temperature for doneness; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
