Introduction
The vibrant combination of chicken, fresh pineapple, and colorful bell peppers creates a delightful dish that’s perfect for grilling season. This recipe for chicken skewers not only tantalizes the taste buds but also bursts with flavor and color. With a sweet and savory marinade that infuses each bite, you’ll impress family and friends with this easy-to-make meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking directions to bring this delicious dish to life.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
3 cups fresh pineapple, cubed
2 large green bell peppers, diced into 1¼-inch pieces
1 medium red onion, diced into 1¼-inch pieces
¼ cup pineapple juice
⅓ cup ketchup
⅓ cup soy sauce
⅓ cup dark brown sugar
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 50 minutes (including marinating time)
Yield: 4-6 servings
With the ingredients ready and the prep steps outlined, you can now easily create these flavorful chicken skewers for your next cookout. Serve them with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, ketchup, soy sauce, dark brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, rice vinegar, ground ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil until smooth.
Step 2: Season the Marinade
Add sea salt and ground black pepper to the marinade; stir to combine.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the cubed chicken into a large resealable plastic bag and pour half of the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Step 4: Soak the Skewers
While the chicken marinates, soak wooden skewers in water for at least one hour to prevent burning during grilling.
Step 5: Prepare the Vegetables and Pineapple
In a separate bowl, toss the diced green bell peppers, red onion, and pineapple cubes with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Step 6: Assemble the Skewers
Thread alternating pieces of marinated chicken, green bell pepper, red onion, and pineapple onto the soaked skewers.
Step 7: Preheat the Grill
Preheat the grill to medium heat.
Step 8: Brush the Skewers
Brush the assembled skewers with the remaining marinade.
Step 9: Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning and basting with marinade every 5 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 10: Rest and Serve
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Storage
Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Method Alternative
These skewers can also be baked in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes if grilling is not an option.
Vegetable Substitutions
Feel free to substitute the green bell peppers and red onion with other vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes according to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
These skewers can be served over rice or with a side salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken enhances its flavor and tenderness. Combine the marinade ingredients and submerge the chicken in the mixture, allowing it to soak for at least one hour in the refrigerator.
Skewering
To create a balanced and colorful dish, alternate pieces of marinated chicken with vegetables and pineapple on soaked wooden skewers. This method helps ensure even cooking and easy handling on the grill.
Grilling
Preheat the grill to medium heat. Cook the skewers for 15-20 minutes, turning them every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking, and basting with the remaining marinade for added flavor.
Resting
After grilling, let the skewers rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute in the chicken, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful outcome.
FAQ
Can I use other types of meat for skewers?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or pork. Adjust the marinating time accordingly based on the type of meat used.
What can I serve with grilled skewers?
Grilled skewers pair well with rice, quinoa, salads, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
How should I store leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They should be consumed within 3-4 days for best quality.
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the skewers in advance. Marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to grill.
Is it necessary to soak the skewers?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least one hour helps prevent them from burning while grilling.
Conclusion
This grilled chicken and pineapple skewer recipe delivers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. The marinade’s balance of tangy, sweet, and umami components enhances the chicken and vegetables, making it a perfect dish for summer barbecues or family dinners. The colorful presentation and vibrant taste will surely impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Teriyaki Shrimp Skewers
Swap chicken for shrimp and use a similar marinade. Grill alongside colorful veggies like zucchini and carrots for a seafood twist.
Beef and Bell Pepper Skewers
Replace chicken with cubed beef and marinate using a teriyaki or soy sauce base. Pair with onion and bell pepper for a hearty meal.
Pineapple Veggie Skewers
Use chunks of pineapple, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper before grilling for a delicious vegetarian option.
Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings
Instead of skewers, use the same marinade on chicken wings for a sweeter, spicier appetizer. Bake or grill until crispy.
Grilled Tofu and Vegetable Skewers
Marinate cubes of tofu in the same sauce along with assorted vegetables for a tasty vegan alternative.
Pineapple Fried Rice
Incorporate pineapple and vegetables with fried rice, using leftover grilled chicken for added flavor and texture.
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Shred the grilled chicken and mix it with extra barbecue sauce, then serve on buns with coleslaw for a delicious sandwich option.
