Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a delicious and vibrant dish that combines tender chicken with sweet pineapple and colorful vegetables. This dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing, making it perfect for gatherings or a family dinner. The savory teriyaki marinade adds a depth of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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Why Make This Recipe

If you are looking for a simple, healthy, and flavorful meal, these Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a fantastic choice. The combination of chicken, pineapple, and fresh vegetables makes for a complete dish that is easy to prepare. The sweet and tangy teriyaki marinade infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it juicy on the grill. Plus, grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor that makes these skewers irresistible!

How to Make Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon water for thickening, optional

For the Skewers:

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)

Directions:

Make the Marinade:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
2. If you prefer a thicker marinade, add the cornstarch mixture and whisk until combined.

Marinate the Chicken:

3. Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
4. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, reserving the other half for basting and serving.
5. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to marinate.

Preheat the Grill:

6. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Assemble the Skewers:

7. Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, bell pepper pieces, and red onion pieces onto the skewers, alternating ingredients for a colorful presentation.

Grill the Skewers:

8. Place the skewers on the preheated grill.
9. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
10. Baste the skewers with the reserved marinade during the last few minutes of grilling for extra flavor.

Serve:

11. Transfer the grilled pineapple teriyaki chicken skewers to a serving platter.
12. Serve immediately, with extra teriyaki sauce on the side for dipping, if desired. Enjoy these Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers as a delightful and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

These skewers are best served hot off the grill. Pair them with steamed rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You can also serve them with extra teriyaki sauce for dipping, which enhances the flavors even more.

How to Store Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or on a skillet until heated through. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap them tightly and place them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

• Make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Marinating the chicken longer will enhance flavors, but 30 minutes is the minimum.
• For even cooking, try to cut all the ingredients into the same size pieces.

Variation (If Any)

You can customize these skewers by adding your favorite vegetables or using shrimp instead of chicken. For a spicy kick, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or sprinkling red pepper flakes on the skewer before grilling.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce instead?
   Yes, you can use store-bought sauce, but making your own allows for more flavor customization.

2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
   The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.

3. Can I grill these skewers indoors?
   Yes, if you have a grill pan or an electric grill, you can make these skewers indoors. Just be sure to monitor the heat closely to avoid burning.

Enjoy the delicious flavors of Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers at your next meal!