These Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs are a tasty mix of tender chicken and juicy pineapple. The sweet teriyaki glaze adds an extra burst of flavor that’s hard to resist!
Grilling these kabobs always puts me in a good mood! I love how easy they are to make, and they look great on the plate too. Serve them with rice, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is lean and absorbs flavors well. You can swap it with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier meat, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is sweet and juicy, adding a nice contrast to the savory chicken. Canned pineapple works in a pinch but try to choose the unsweetened variety for a healthier option.
Bell Pepper: I like using red bell pepper for its sweetness. Green or yellow bell peppers work too, or you can mix in other vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for variety.
Mushrooms: Button mushrooms are great, but feel free to use cremini for a deeper flavor. If you’re not a mushroom fan, try adding pieces of eggplant or zucchini.
Teriyaki Sauce: Homemade teriyaki sauce is really easy to make if you want control over ingredients. But, store-bought is super convenient! Look for low-sodium options for a healthier choice.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor Out of My Chicken When Marinating?
Marinating chicken not only adds flavor but also helps keep it moist while grilling. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you can leave it for 2 hours, that’s when the magic really happens!
- Use a bowl to combine chicken with teriyaki sauce.
- Cover and refrigerate to allow the flavors to blend.
- Remember, the longer the marination, the more flavorful your chicken will be!
What’s the Right Way to Assemble Kabobs for Even Cooking?
Assembling kabobs is all about balancing ingredients for even cooking and delicious presentation. Here’s how I like to do it:
- Thread the chicken first, then alternate with vegetables to keep flavors flying together.
- Leave a tiny gap between ingredients to ensure even cooking and better charring.
- Try to keep similar-sized ingredients together for consistent cooking times.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 small onion, cut into pieces
- 8 oz mushrooms, cleaned and halved
For Marinating:
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped
Other:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes for marinating and preparation, plus an additional 10-15 minutes for grilling. All in all, you’re looking at around 45 minutes to enjoy those tasty kabobs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by putting the chicken pieces into a bowl and pouring the teriyaki sauce over them. Mix well so that the chicken is fully coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, you can refrigerate it for up to 2 hours to really get that flavor in!
2. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to stop them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, give them a good clean and set them aside for the next step.
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Now comes the fun part! Take your soaked or clean skewers and start threading the ingredients. Begin with a piece of marinated chicken, followed by a chunk of fresh pineapple, a square of red bell pepper, a piece of onion, and a halved mushroom. Keep alternating the ingredients until the skewer is filled, leaving a little space at each end for handling.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Before you start grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Don’t forget to lightly oil the grates with some olive oil. This helps keep the kabobs from sticking!
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Place your assembled skewers on the preheated grill and let them cook for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly. You’re looking for the chicken to be cooked through (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F) and the veggies should be tender and slightly charred. Yum!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is perfectly cooked, carefully remove the kabobs from the grill. Sprinkle them with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch. Serve them hot, alongside some steamed rice and a little extra teriyaki sauce on the side if you like!
Enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even asparagus. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly until everything is tender and cooked through.
What Can I Substitute for Teriyaki Sauce?
If you don’t have teriyaki sauce, you can use soy sauce mixed with a bit of honey or brown sugar to create a similar sweet-savory flavor. A splash of rice vinegar or sesame oil can also enhance the taste. Adjust the amounts to suit your preference!
How Do I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water to the skillet to keep them moist.
Can I Make These Kabobs in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender. Just remember to watch them closely to prevent burning!
