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Flavorful Grilled Brown Sugar Pineapple Chicken Skewers

grilled brown sugar pineapple chicken skewers - featured image

These grilled brown sugar pineapple chicken skewers are quick, easy, and perfect for summer BBQs. The sticky caramelized glaze pairs beautifully with juicy pineapple for a sweet-savory flavor that’s a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 medium fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks (or quality canned pineapple chunks, drained)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Optional pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes until smooth.
  2. Add the cubed chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, ideally 1 hour, but no longer than 4 hours.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). If using charcoal, wait until coals are covered with white ash. If indoors, preheat grill pan for 5 minutes.
  4. Thread the marinated chicken and pineapple chunks alternately onto skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
  5. Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes total, turning every 3-4 minutes, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has a caramelized crust. Pineapple should be slightly charred but juicy.
  6. Remove skewers from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Avoid marinating chicken longer than 4 hours to prevent meat breakdown. Turn skewers every 3-4 minutes to avoid burning the brown sugar glaze. Let chicken rest 5 minutes after grilling for juiciness. Use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken skewers, brown sugar chicken, pineapple chicken, summer BBQ recipe, easy chicken skewers, sweet and savory chicken