Description

Easy, budget-friendly grilled chicken skewers marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce with fresh pineapple. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend grilling.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
1 large fresh pineapple, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
12–16 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 medium red bell pepper, cut into chunks (optional)
2–3 stalks green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

Soak wooden skewers in a bowl of water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and tomato paste until the sugar is dissolved.
Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes (up to 4 hours).
Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C) and lightly oil the grates.
Thread chicken and pineapple onto skewers, alternating pieces. Add bell pepper chunks if using.
Place skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping once.
Baste with extra marinade during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Cook until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and pineapple is caramelized.
Let skewers rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.

Notes

Chicken thighs are preferred over breasts for juiciness. If using canned pineapple, drain thoroughly and pat dry to ensure caramelization. Do not marinate for more than 24 hours as the acid can make the meat mushy. For a spicy twist, add sriracha to the marinade.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 3 skewers per servin
Calories: 320
Sugar: 18
Sodium: 650
Fat: 12
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 22
Fiber: 2
Protein: 28

Keywords: grilled chicken, teriyaki, pineapple skewers, labor day recipes, budget meal prep, easy dinner, summer grilling, kid-friendly meals