Name: Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons low sodium tamari or soy sauce; 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar; 3 tablespoons honey; 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons); ¾ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 1 small pineapple, cut into approx. 1-inch cubes

Jump to Recipe

Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers are the perfect combination of smoky, tangy, and a hint of heat that’s sure to become a favorite for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for something fun and flavorful. Juicy, tender chicken pieces are marinated in a zesty blend of honey, chili garlic sauce, tamari, and lime juice, then threaded alongside sweet pineapple chunks to be grilled to perfection. The result is a beautifully caramelized, mouthwatering dish bursting with vibrant flavors and contrasting textures.

This recipe is simple but impressive, taking just a few minutes to prepare before it hits the grill or broiler. The marinade balances sweet and spicy notes that complement the natural sweetness of the pineapple, while smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth. The skewers are versatile and perfect for pairing with a fresh salad, rice, or grilled vegetables to create a complete meal.

Ideal for sharing with family and friends, these skewers are great for entertaining or a casual dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. They also work well for meal prep or batch cooking when you want a delicious protein option ready to go.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Balance of Sweet and Spicy – The marinade creates a delicious harmony between honey’s sweetness and chili garlic’s heat.
Juicy and Tender Chicken – Marinating helps lock in moisture for perfectly cooked, flavorful bites.
Caramelized Pineapple – Adds a juicy, tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory chicken.
Easy to Make and Grill – Minimal prep with simple ingredients for maximum flavor.
Great for Any Occasion – Ideal for casual dinners, meal prep, or impressive entertaining.

Ingredients

Boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Olive oil
Low sodium tamari or soy sauce
Chili garlic sauce
Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
Honey
Lime juice
Smoked paprika
Kosher salt
Pineapple, cut into cubes

Variations

Add Vegetables: Thread bell peppers, red onions, or cherry tomatoes onto the skewers for added color and flavor.
Spicy Boost: Increase chili garlic sauce or add crushed red pepper flakes.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) to keep it gluten-free.
Citrus Twist: Substitute lime juice with orange juice for a different fruity tang.
Herb Infusion: Add chopped cilantro or parsley as a fresh garnish after grilling.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, tamari, chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, honey, lime juice, smoked paprika, and kosher salt until combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken and pineapple cubes alternately onto skewers.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred, and the pineapple is caramelized.

Step 6: Serve

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

Tips for Making the Recipe

Cut chicken and pineapple into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between pieces for better grilling.
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate.
Use a grill basket or pan if you don’t have skewers to avoid losing pieces through the grates.
Baste with leftover marinade while grilling for extra flavor but discard any marinade that touched raw chicken.

How to Serve

Serve these skewers hot off the grill alongside steamed rice, quinoa, or a crisp green salad. They also pair well with grilled corn, avocado slices, or a tangy yogurt-based dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra lime wedges for brightness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cooked skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Cooked skewers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs are a great alternative and tend to stay juicy.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours for best flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, use a grill pan or broil in the oven, turning occasionally.

4. Are wooden skewers safe to use on the grill?

Yes, but soak them in water for 20–30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

5. Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the skewers and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before grilling.

6. How do I prevent pineapple from sticking to the grill?

Lightly oil the grill grates and the pineapple before grilling.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

8. Can I make this recipe spicier?

Absolutely, add more chili garlic sauce or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes.

9. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and be opaque throughout.

10. Can I use frozen pineapple?

Fresh pineapple is preferred, but thawed frozen pineapple can be used if well-drained.

Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Skewers offer a delightful balance of flavors that are perfect for any grilling occasion. Easy to prepare and packed with juicy, tender chicken and caramelized pineapple, these skewers bring a vibrant, tropical twist to your meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a simple family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its delicious combination of sweet, spicy, and smoky notes.