Description
Delicious and vibrant Chicken & Pineapple Kebabs marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, pineapple juice, and spices, then grilled or baked to juicy perfection. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender chicken breasts with sweet pineapple and colorful bell peppers, making it a perfect meal for a summer barbecue or a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- ⅓ cup canned pineapple juice
- Juice from 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons chipotle chili pepper powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into chunks)
- 1 pineapple (cut into large chunks)
- 3 bell peppers (red, orange, and yellow, cut into large pieces)
- 1 large red onion (cut into large pieces)
Garnish
- Fresh chopped cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, lime juice, brown sugar, olive oil, sesame oil, chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined, creating a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken chunks to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight to enhance the flavors.
- Preheat Cooking Equipment: Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (about 200°C) to prepare for cooking the kebabs.
- Assemble the Kebabs: Thread the marinated chicken pieces, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and red onion onto skewers alternately, arranging them for even cooking.
- Cook the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill or in the oven. Grill over medium heat for 15–20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes, or bake in the oven for the same time until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the kebabs from heat and optionally garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately while hot and juicy.
Notes
- Marinating overnight intensifies the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- You can substitute the chipotle chili powder with smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- These kebabs pair well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
