I absolutely adore a good kabob, and these **Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs** are one of my all-time favorites! There’s just something magical about marinating succulent chicken, skewering it with sweet pineapple and colorful veggies, and grilling it to perfection. I remember the first time I made these, it was a sunny Saturday afternoon, and I had friends over for a barbecue. The smell of grilled pineapple mingling with the savory teriyaki sauce made the whole neighborhood jealous! Not only are these kabobs a burst of flavor, but they’re also a total showstopper at any gathering.
The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to whip up and is sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just looking for a delicious weeknight dinner, these kabobs are perfect. So, roll up your sleeves, let’s fire up the grill, and dive into this delightful recipe!
What’s in Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs?
Here’s a peek at the star ingredients that come together to create these mouth-watering kabobs:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The chicken is marinated in a tangy teriyaki sauce, making it juicy and full of flavor.
Fresh pineapple: Sweet and juicy, fresh pineapple cubes caramelize beautifully on the grill, adding a tropical twist.
Red bell pepper and yellow onion: These colorful additions bring crunch and sweetness. Plus, aren’t they pretty on the skewers?
Mushrooms: I love using fresh mushrooms for their earthy flavor. Whether whole or quartered, they add a lovely texture.
Teriyaki sauce: A savory, slightly sweet sauce that serves as the marinade and topping. I usually go for low-sodium varieties for a better balance.
Olive oil: This helps the marinade stick and adds a little extra richness.
Salt, pepper, and garnishes: Simple seasonings and toppings, like green onions and sesame seeds, give a pop of flavor and presentation.
Is Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs Good for You?
Absolutely! Let me break it down for you:
Chicken: Lean and packed with protein, chicken is an excellent choice for a healthy meal, keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Pineapple: This fruit is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins, bromelain, and antioxidants, helping with digestion and inflammation.
Vegetables: The bell peppers and onions add a good dose of vitamins A and C, while the mushrooms bring fiber and other nutrients to the table.
Now, while these kabobs are a fantastic option, keep in mind that teriyaki sauce can be higher in sugar than other sauces. If that’s a concern, you can opt for a homemade sauce or low-sugar alternatives!
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 8 oz mushrooms, whole or quartered
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (plus extra for serving)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Green onions, chopped for garnish
– Sesame seeds for garnish
– Skewers (wooden or metal)
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs?
1. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the chicken cubes with teriyaki sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated, and then let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to a few hours in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor).
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—this is where the magic happens!
4. Now comes the fun part! Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple, red bell pepper, onion, and mushrooms onto the skewers, alternating the ingredients for a colorful presentation.
5. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and to have those lovely grill marks.
6. In the last few minutes of grilling, brush on some extra teriyaki sauce for an added burst of flavor.
7. Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them cool for just a bit. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds to make them look beautifully inviting.
8. Serve your kabobs with extra teriyaki sauce and some fluffy rice on the side if you like. Enjoy every tasty bite!
Skewers & Flavor Tips for the Road
– Feel free to customize! Swap in your favorite veggies like zucchini or cherry tomatoes, or even add shrimp!
– If you’re short on time, you can marinate the chicken overnight or even in the morning for a quick dinner prep.
– These kabobs are just as tasty served cold as leftovers the next day, perfect for packed lunches!
– Don’t have a grill? No worries! These kabobs can also be baked in the oven or cooked on a stovetop grill pan.
I can’t wait for you to try these **Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs**! They’re such a crowd-pleaser and always leave everyone wanting more. Please let me know how yours turn out, and feel free to share any fun variations you try! Happy grilling!
