Spicy Pineapple and Jerk Chicken Skewers Recipe

These spicy pineapple and jerk chicken skewers are a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for grilling season. The combination of juicy chicken marinated in jerk spices and sweet pineapple creates a delicious balance of heat and sweetness.

This recipe is easy to follow and ideal for outdoor gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. You can serve these skewers with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Flavorful Ingredients

The key to creating mouthwatering spicy pineapple and jerk chicken skewers lies in the selection of ingredients.

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this dish, providing a juicy texture that holds up well on the grill.

Fresh pineapple adds a sweet contrast to the spicy jerk seasoning, making each bite a delightful experience.

Other essential components include olive oil, lime juice, and a blend of spices that enhance the overall flavor profile.

When combined, these ingredients create a vibrant and aromatic dish that is perfect for summer gatherings.

Preparation Steps

Preparing these skewers is straightforward and can be done in just a few steps.

Start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of jerk seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Allow the chicken to soak up the flavors for at least 15 minutes, which is crucial for achieving that bold taste.

While the chicken marinates, cut the pineapple into chunks, ensuring they are similar in size to the chicken pieces for even cooking.

Grilling Techniques

Grilling the skewers is where the magic happens.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it is hot enough to create those beautiful char marks.

If using wooden skewers, soaking them in water beforehand will prevent them from burning on the grill.

Thread the marinated chicken and pineapple onto the skewers, alternating between the two.

Once on the grill, cook the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Once grilled to perfection, let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving.

This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.

For a complete meal, serve the skewers alongside a fresh salad and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will surely impress your guests, making it a perfect dish for any summer gathering.

Health Benefits

These skewers not only taste great but also offer nutritional benefits.

Chicken thighs provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Pineapple is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to overall health.

With only 250 calories per serving, this dish is a guilt-free option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal without compromising their dietary goals.

Creative Variations

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make this dish your own.

Consider adding bell peppers, onions, or even zucchini to the skewers for added color and nutrition.

For those who prefer a milder flavor, adjust the amount of jerk seasoning used in the marinade.

These skewers are versatile and can easily be adapted to suit various tastes, making them a fantastic choice for any occasion.

Grilled Jerk Chicken and Pineapple Skewers

These skewers feature marinated chicken pieces and fresh pineapple chunks grilled to perfection. The recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, serving approximately 4 people.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the jerk seasoning, olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken and pineapple chunks onto the skewers, alternating between chicken and pineapple.
3. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with rice or a fresh salad.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 skewers
• Calories: 250kcal
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 10g