🌟 New recipes every week — Follow us on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon
Juicy grilled pineapple chicken skewers with charred marks, served on a white plate with herbs.

Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers – The Ultimate Tropical BBQ Recipe

These Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers are the perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. Juicy marinated chicken is paired with caramelized pineapple for a tropical twist that’s ideal for summer BBQs, parties, or weeknight dinners. Ready in under 30 minutes of cook time, this easy recipe will impress your guests and become a family favorite. Fire up your grill and try these irresistible skewers today!

  • Total Time: 1h25mins
  • Yield: 6 skewers (approx. 3–4 servings)

Ingredients

Scale

For the Marinade:

  • 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

  • 23 drops toasted sesame seed oil (optional)

For the Skewers:

  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2″ chunks

  • 1 whole fresh pineapple, cut into 2″ chunks

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade:
    In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, salt, and minced garlic. Add toasted sesame oil if desired for a richer aroma.

  2. Marinate the Chicken:
    Place the chicken chunks in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over, reserving ¼ cup for basting later. Seal and refrigerate for 1 hour (or up to 4 hours).

  3. Prepare Skewers:
    If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread chicken and pineapple chunks alternately onto the skewers.

  4. Preheat the Grill:
    Set your grill to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C). Oil the grill grates or use a grill spray to prevent sticking.

  5. Grill the Skewers:
    Cook skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes. Brush with the reserved marinade halfway through. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.

  6. Rest & Serve:
    Remove skewers from the grill and let them rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple caramelizes better than canned and adds a vibrant tropical flavor.

  • Marination is Key: At least 1 hour of marination is essential, but 2–4 hours will deepen the flavor. Avoid overnight marination as the vinegar can break down the chicken texture.

  • Uniform Chunks: Cut chicken and pineapple into even 2″ pieces for even cooking.

  • Alternative Cooking: No grill? Use a grill pan or bake skewers at 425°F (220°C) for 18–20 minutes, broiling the last 2 minutes for a charred finish.

  • Add Veggies: Bell peppers, onions, or zucchini can be added to the skewers for extra color and nutrition.

  • Author: SOFIA
  • Prep Time: 1h15mins
  • Cook Time: 12mins
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American, Tropical BBQ