Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers (Sweet & Smoky)

Looking for a fun, tasty meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor? You’re going to love these Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers.

They’re juicy, sweet, smoky, and perfect for your next barbecue, picnic, or weeknight dinner. The sweet pineapple and tangy teriyaki sauce give each bite a tropical twist, while grilling brings out that smoky flavor we all crave.

Whether you’re feeding your family or cooking for a crowd, this one’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Let’s get started!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you fire up the grill, gather these simple, fresh ingredients:

• Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work great. Cut into bite-sized chunks.
• Pineapple – Fresh pineapple is best, but canned chunks (in juice, not syrup) also work.
• Bell Peppers – Red, green, or yellow for color and crunch.
• Red Onion – Adds a bit of sharpness and color.
• Teriyaki Sauce – Store-bought or homemade, whichever you prefer.
• Garlic – Minced, for extra flavor.
• Soy Sauce – Low-sodium is great if you’re watching salt.
• Honey or Brown Sugar – For a touch of sweetness.
• Lime Juice – Adds brightness and freshness.
• Olive Oil – To help everything cook evenly.
• Salt & Pepper – To taste.
• Skewers – Wooden or metal.
• Optional Add-Ins:
  Mushrooms, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even cubed tofu for extra color and variety.

How to Make Grilled Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Follow these easy steps to make your skewers tasty and juicy every time:

1. Marinate the Chicken
   In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce, garlic, soy sauce, honey (or sugar), lime juice, and olive oil. Add chicken pieces, stir well, and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge). This gives the chicken lots of flavor.
2. Soak the Skewers
   If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes before grilling. This keeps them from burning.
3. Assemble the Skewers
   Thread marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and onion pieces onto the skewers, alternating as you go. Try to leave a little space between pieces for even cooking.
4. Preheat the Grill
   Heat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
5. Grill the Skewers
   Place skewers on the grill and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes. The chicken should be cooked through and have a nice char. Brush extra teriyaki sauce on the skewers while grilling for more flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Once cooked, remove the skewers and serve hot with extra sauce on the side.

Tips for Perfect Skewers Every Time

• Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Leave a little space between pieces so they cook evenly.
• Keep an eye on the grill. Chicken cooks quickly—don’t let it dry out.
• Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor and caramelization.
• Double the marinade. Use half for marinating and half for brushing while grilling.

Fun Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Try these ideas:

• Spicy Kick: Add red chili flakes or a bit of sriracha to the marinade.
• Low-Sugar Version: Skip honey and use a sugar-free teriyaki sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for tofu or mushrooms.
• Tropical Style: Add coconut rice on the side for a full island meal.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check your teriyaki brand.

What to Serve With Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

These skewers go great with many side dishes. Here are some tasty ideas:

• Steamed white or brown rice
• Coconut or pineapple fried rice
• Fresh green salad with citrus dressing
• Grilled veggies like corn or zucchini
• Cold pasta salad or potato salad for a picnic feel
• Sweet chili sauce or extra teriyaki for dipping

Make Ahead, Storage, and Leftover Tips

Meal Prep:
You can prep the chicken and marinade the day before. Cut all veggies and pineapple ahead to save time.

Storage:
Leftover skewers? Remove from sticks and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:
Reheat gently in a pan or microwave. You can also enjoy leftovers cold in a salad or wrap.

Freezing:
You can freeze marinated chicken (before cooking) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway.

Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, just make sure it’s packed in juice, not syrup, and drain it well.

Is it okay to marinate overnight?
Yes, but no more than 24 hours to avoid the chicken getting mushy.

Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?
Absolutely! It saves time and still tastes great.