Easy Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs with Pineapple

Kabobs are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy grilled meats and veggies. These Easy Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs with Pineapple are a delicious and healthy option for your next cookout or weeknight dinner. The chicken is marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, then grilled to perfection with chunks of juicy pineapple and red onion. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible!

Ingredients (for 4 servings):

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/3 cup soy sauce (or use tamari for a gluten-free option)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier alternative)
• 1 1/2 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch chunks (optional)
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks (optional)
• Wooden skewers (soak them in water for at least 30 minutes)
• Sesame seeds and sliced green onion for garnish (optional)

How to make Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs with Pineapple

1. Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the chicken: Add chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Assemble the kabobs: Thread marinated chicken cubes, red onion chunks (if using), and pineapple chunks (if using) onto soaked skewers, alternating ingredients.
4. Preheat the grill: Prepare your grill for medium-high heat. Alternatively, preheat a grill pan or oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Grill or cook the kabobs: Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Alternatively, cook them on a preheated grill pan for about 5-7 minutes per side, or bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. Glaze the kabobs (optional): Reserve some marinade and simmer it in a small saucepan until it reduces slightly to create a thicker teriyaki glaze. Brush the glaze onto the kabobs during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
7. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onion (if desired) and serve with rice or your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Calories: 320
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 165mg
Sodium: 1120mg
Total Carbohydrates: 28g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Total Sugars: 23g
Protein: 32g

Tips:

• Add variety by threading bell pepper chunks, zucchini slices, or mushrooms onto the skewers along with the chicken and pineapple.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For a healthier option, use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Enjoy these delicious and easy Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs with Pineapple!

FAQs

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. However, chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicier on the grill. If you do use chicken breasts, be sure to marinate them for at least 4 hours, or they may dry out during cooking.
• How can I tell when my chicken is cooked through? The safest way to tell if your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
• What kind of dipping sauce goes well with these kabobs? There are many dipping sauces that would pair well with these teriyaki chicken kabobs. Here are a few ideas:
  • Teriyaki sauce (store-bought or use the leftover marinade)
  • Sweet and sour sauce
  • Honey mustard sauce
  • Peanut sauce
  • Sriracha mayo
• Can I make these kabobs ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the kabobs just before grilling.
• What if I don’t have wooden skewers? You can use metal skewers instead, or even create kabobs by threading the chicken and vegetables onto rosemary or thyme sprigs (just make sure to remove them before eating).