Name: Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers: 5-Star Tropical Delight
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 12 min
Cuisine: Tropical
Ingredients: 1 cup canned coconut milk; Juice of 1 lime; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon honey; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed; 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks; Skewers (wooden or metal); 1 cup pineapple juice; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (slurry)

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Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers are a delightful way to embrace summer flavors right from your backyard. These skewers combine juicy chicken, fresh pineapple, and a creamy coconut marinade that infuses every bite with tropical goodness. The grilling process caramelizes the ingredients, creating a sweet and savory experience that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for cookouts or a vibrant weeknight dinner, these skewers promise to elevate your meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers. First, they’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or summer BBQs. The marinade not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the chicken tender and juicy. With the added sweetness from fresh pineapple, you’ll enjoy a delightful contrast that satisfies both savory and sweet cravings. This dish is also versatile, allowing you to substitute chicken with shrimp for a different twist. Additionally, these skewers are gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. You can serve them with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Pair these with your favorite dipping sauces, and you have a dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients for Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers

Gather these items:

1 cup canned coconut milk
Juice of 1 lime
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
Skewers (wooden or metal)
1 cup pineapple juice
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (slurry)

How to Make Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers Step-by-Step

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk coconut milk, lime juice, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate at least 1 hour (up to 8 hours).
Step 2: Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes. Thread marinated chicken and pineapple alternately onto skewers.
Step 3: Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill skewers 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken reaches 165°F and develops char marks.
Step 4: Make Glaze: In a small saucepan, simmer pineapple juice and honey for 5–7 minutes. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened and glossy.
Step 5: Finish: Brush glaze over skewers during the last few minutes of grilling or right before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers

Keep these in mind:

Perfect for cookouts and meal prep.
Can substitute chicken with shrimp for variety.
For an extra burst of flavor, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper to the marinade.
Ensure to soak wooden skewers to prevent burning on the grill.
Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Best Ways to Serve Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers

These skewers shine on their own, but pairing them with a refreshing salad or coconut rice enhances the tropical experience. You can also serve them with a zesty dipping sauce, such as sweet chili or a tangy yogurt dip, to elevate the flavors further. For a truly festive BBQ, consider serving alongside grilled vegetables or corn on the cob.

How to Store and Reheat Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers

After enjoying these skewers, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them on the grill for a few minutes or in a microwave until heated through. These skewers make for a fantastic meal prep option, easily reheating for a quick lunch or dinner during the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers

What’s the secret to perfect Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers?

The key to perfect Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers lies in the marination time. Allowing the chicken to soak in the coconut marinade enhances its flavor and tenderness, making each bite juicy and flavorful. The combination of pineapple and coconut adds a delightful tropical taste.

Can I make Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and assemble the skewers right before grilling. This not only saves time but also allows flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring delicious skewers for your BBQ.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure to soak wooden skewers to prevent burning and ensure even cooking by not overcrowding the skewers. Monitor the grill temperature carefully to achieve perfect char marks without drying out the chicken.

Variations of Pineapple Coconut Chicken Skewers You Can Try

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding bell peppers or red onion for additional color and flavor. You can also swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu, making it suitable for different dietary preferences. If you want a spicy kick, add jalapeño slices to the skewers. Each variation brings a new twist to this tropical delight!

For more delicious recipes, check out Ginger Lime Pork Coconut or Slow Cooker Korean Beef.

Additionally, if you’re interested in the health benefits of coconut, you can read more about it here.