Ohh, Pineapple Jalapeño Chicken Skewers are a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory — grilled to smoky perfection! The pineapple adds that juicy sweetness, while the jalapeños bring just the right amount of heat. A true flavor party. 🍍🔥🍗
🍍🔥 Pineapple Jalapeño Chicken Skewers
🛒 Ingredients:
For the chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1–2 inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
For the marinade:
- ¼ cup pineapple juice (fresh or from the canned pineapple)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1–2 jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
For the skewers:
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (or canned if fresh isn’t available)
- 1–2 fresh jalapeños, sliced into rings (optional for extra heat)
- Red onion or bell pepper chunks (optional for added crunch and color)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
🔥 Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, chopped jalapeños, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
- Add the chicken cubes, and toss to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
- Prepare the Skewers:
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, and any optional vegetables like bell peppers or onions onto the skewers.
- Grill the Skewers:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush with a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the skewers for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). You want a nice char on the edges!
- Serve:
- Serve with extra lime wedges, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
🍽️ Serve With:
- Cilantro-lime rice or quinoa
- Grilled veggies or a fresh slaw
- A tangy yogurt sauce or chipotle mayo for dipping
These skewers are sweet, spicy, and just perfect for a summer cookout, dinner, or appetizer. Want a more tropical twist with coconut? Or need help with a fun drink pairing? Let me know!
