Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers are a perfect balance of bold flavors—juicy, tender chicken marinated in a tangy, spicy sauce paired with caramelized, sweet pineapple chunks. These skewers are ideal for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, or backyard gatherings. The sweet and spicy combination makes each bite irresistible, offering a tropical flair with a touch of heat.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)pineapple chunksred bell pepperonionolive oilsoy saucehoneygarlicchili flakeslime juicepaprika

directions

Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks and place them in a mixing bowl.

In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, chili flakes, lime juice, and paprika to create the marinade.

Pour the marinade over the chicken, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor).

Soak wooden skewers in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.

Cut pineapple, red bell pepper, and onion into similar-sized chunks.

Thread marinated chicken, pineapple, red bell pepper, and onion alternately onto the skewers.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.

Grill the skewers for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.

Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesMarinating time: 30–120 minutesGrilling time: 10–15 minutesTotal time: 55–150 minutes

Variations

Add jalapeño slices to the skewers for an extra kick.

Use mango or peach chunks instead of pineapple for a fruity twist.

Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian version.

Brush extra marinade on during grilling for intensified flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, place skewers on a grill or in a hot skillet until warmed through, or microwave for 1–2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, but fresh pineapple gives the best texture and flavor on the grill.

Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat; you can adjust the chili flakes to your preference.

Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?

Yes, bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

Marinating is recommended for flavor, but if short on time, even 15 minutes helps.

Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the skewers ahead and keep them covered in the fridge until grilling.

What kind of grill works best?

Any grill—gas, charcoal, or electric—works well for this recipe.

What vegetables go well with this?

Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms are great additions.

Should I peel the pineapple?

Yes, remove the skin and core before cutting into chunks.

Can I freeze the skewers?

It’s best to freeze the marinated chicken separately and assemble fresh before grilling.

Do kids enjoy this recipe?

Yes, just adjust the spice level to make it more kid-friendly.

Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers deliver a crowd-pleasing mix of flavors that make them a standout dish for any occasion. With their tropical sweetness and savory heat, these skewers are simple to prepare and always satisfying. Whether grilled outdoors or cooked indoors, they’re a delicious way to spice up your meal routine.