If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for any season, these Pineapple Chicken Skewers are exactly what you need. The juicy chicken cubes get a beautiful balance of salty soy sauce and sweet honey in their marinade, while the pineapple chunks add a tropical pop of freshness and tang. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue or roasting them in the oven for a fuss-free weeknight dinner, these skewers promise a deliciously juicy bite every time.

This recipe is great for busy cooks who want a quick, crowd-friendly meal with a lovely blend of sweet and savory. Plus, it’s flexible—perfect as an appetizer, served over rice, or as a protein-packed salad topper.

Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken Skewers: Your Next Crowd-Pleaser

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple marinade with pantry staples
Balanced flavors of sweet honey and tangy pineapple
Quick marination and cook time
Can be grilled or baked depending on your setup
Great for meal prep, parties, or casual dinners

Tip: You can find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cubed
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 cup pineapple chunks

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce and honey. Add the cubed chicken and toss to coat. Let marinate for 1 hour in the fridge for best flavor.
Assemble the Skewers: Alternate threading chicken pieces and pineapple chunks onto skewers, creating a colorful pattern.
Cook Your Skewers:
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 12 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking and a slight char.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Serve: Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with rice, a fresh salad, or your favorite side.

Variations

Add bell peppers, red onions, or zucchini chunks to the skewers for extra color and flavor.
Swap honey for maple syrup or brown sugar for a different kind of sweetness.
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds or fresh herbs like cilantro before serving for an extra flavor boost.

Heating and Storage

Storage: Store cooked skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw it before marinating and cooking.

Do I need to soak wooden skewers before grilling?

Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes helps prevent them from burning on the grill.

Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers a few hours before cooking and keep them refrigerated until ready.

What type of pineapple works best?

Fresh pineapple chunks are best for grilling, but canned pineapple (drained) works well for baking.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor but may require a slightly longer cooking time.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, then yes.

How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?

Keep an eye on the chicken and use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Try substituting chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, marinated the same way and grilled or baked.

What can I serve with these skewers?

Rice, quinoa, salads, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salsa complement the skewers well.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Definitely. Just double the marinade and ingredients accordingly.

Conclusion

These Pineapple Chicken Skewers deliver a perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors that will delight your taste buds and impress guests. Quick to make and versatile to cook, they’re an excellent choice for summer barbecues or easy weeknight dinners. Keep this recipe on hand when you want a simple yet flavorful dish that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors.