Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Chicken Skewers

🍍🔥 Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Chicken Skewers

Sticky, smoky, sweet — the ultimate crowd-pleaser for your grill or air fryer!

⏱ Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10–12 minutes

Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Serves: 3–4

✅ Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breast or thighs, cubed

1 cup fresh pineapple chunks

2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

2 tbsp honey or maple syrup

2 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to heat preference)

1 tbsp ketchup

1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice

1 tsp garlic powder or 1 minced garlic clove

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt & pepper, to taste

To garnish:

Chopped green onions or cilantro

Sesame seeds (optional)

🔥 Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sriracha, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, and oil. Add chicken cubes and marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).

2. Assemble the Skewers:
Alternate marinated chicken pieces and pineapple chunks on soaked wooden or metal skewers.

3. Cook the Skewers:

Grill: Preheat to medium-high. Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked and slightly charred.

Air Fryer: Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes or until chicken is cooked, then broil for 1–2 minutes for char.

4. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with green onions and optional sesame seeds. Serve with rice, quinoa, or a fresh slaw.

💡 Tips

Pineapple caramelizes beautifully — don’t skip it!

Use metal skewers or soak wooden ones for 30 mins to avoid burning.

Add bell peppers or red onions for extra color and texture.

Extra glaze? Simmer the marinade (boil for 5 mins) and brush over while grilling.

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I use canned pineapple?
A: Yes, but fresh pineapple gives better grill marks and caramelization.

Q: Is this spicy?
A: Mild to medium heat as written — reduce sriracha for less spice.

Q: Can I prep it ahead?
A: Absolutely! Marinate and skewer ahead, then grill just before serving.

🔍 Nutrition (Estimated per serving, without rice)