Ultra Easy Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe

Ingredients

Meat and Produce

To make delicious and easy Ultra Easy Pineapple Chicken Kabobs, you’ll need a variety of ingredients including meat, produce, and some pantry staples.

Meat:

The main ingredient in this recipe is boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

Produce:

The following fruits and vegetables are used to make the kabobs:

• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 bell pepper, sliced into 1-inch pieces (any color)
• 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds

Pantry Staples:

You’ll also need some basic pantry staples to complete the recipe:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: paprika, garlic powder, or other herbs and spices of your choice

Additional Tips:

To make the kabobs easier to handle and cook, you may want to use skewers with a built-in handle.

You can also adjust the amount and type of produce to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the kabobs!

1 pound boneless chicken breast or thighs

The success of a delicious dish like the Ultra Easy Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe greatly depends on the quality and freshness of its main ingredients, particularly the chicken. When it comes to this recipe, you can choose between chicken breast or thighs, both being popular options.

Cut into bite-sized pieces, _1 pound boneless chicken_ becomes an essential component in making these mouthwatering kabobs. The best part about using boneless chicken is that it ensures even cooking throughout the piece.

However, if you’re looking for a bit more flavor and moisture in your chicken, choosing _thighs_ over breast might be a better option. Thigh meat has a higher fat content, which means it stays juicy and tender even when grilled or baked at high temperatures.

Beyond the choice between breast and thighs, ensure that your chicken is of good quality by selecting fresh pieces with minimal visible fat and no signs of dehydration. You can also consider organic options for a healthier alternative.

The next crucial ingredient in making Ultra Easy Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe is the pineapple itself. Choose fresh, ripe pineapples that are sweet and juicy to balance out the savory flavor of the chicken.

1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned

The ingredients for this simple yet flavorful recipe are minimal and readily available in most supermarkets. The focal point of the dish, apart from the chicken, is the pineapple.

In this recipe, we require 1 cup of pineapple chunks. These can be either fresh or canned, depending on your preference and the season. Fresh pineapple is a better option when it’s in season, but you may find that canned pineapple works just as well during other times of the year.

Canned pineapple comes pre-chopped into bite-sized pieces, making it an extremely convenient choice for recipes like this one. It’s also available in various juices and sugars, such as pineapple juice or syrup, which can add depth to the flavor profile of your kabobs.

Fresh pineapple is slightly more labor-intensive, as you’ll need to chop it into chunks before using it in the recipe. However, if you’re looking for that fresh burst of pineapple flavor, it’s definitely worth the extra effort.

Either way, make sure to pat the pineapple chunks dry with a paper towel before adding them to your kabobs, as excess moisture can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly and result in a less appetizing dish.

The freshness or canned nature of the pineapple is largely up to personal preference. Both will add sweetness and tropical flavor to your Ultra Easy Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe, making it a delicious and satisfying meal for any occasion.

1 bell pepper, any color, sliced into 1inch pieces

The ingredients for the Ultra Easy Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe are relatively simple and accessible. One key ingredient is the bell pepper, which can be any color – green, red, yellow, or orange. The bell pepper should be sliced into 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking and a pleasant texture.

The bell pepper is not only a visually appealing addition to the kabobs but also brings a sweet and slightly crunchy element to each bite. Its mild flavor won’t overpower the other ingredients, making it an excellent choice for this recipe.

When selecting the bell pepper, choose one that is firm and has a vibrant color. This will not only ensure freshness but also result in the best possible flavor and texture. A slightly sweet or tangy flavor profile of the bell pepper complements the sweetness of the pineapple and the savory taste of the chicken perfectly.

The combination of the sliced bell pepper, juicy pineapple chunks, marinated chicken breast, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper will result in a well-balanced and deliciously flavored kabob that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The addition of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also elevate this dish to a new level of flavor.

1 onion, cut into 1inch pieces

The **main ingredient** for our Ultra Easy Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe is chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces.

We will also need 1 **onion**, cut into 1-inch pieces, to add a sweet and savory flavor to our kabobs.

In addition to the chicken and onion, we will require some fresh pineapple chunks, red bell pepper slices, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms to provide a pop of color and texture to our dish.

We can also add some fresh cilantro leaves as a garnish for extra flavor and freshness.

Instructions

Preparation and Assembly

In order to successfully prepare and assemble the Ultra Easy Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe, it’s crucial to follow a set of instructions that ensure the preparation and assembly process is smooth and efficient.

The first step in preparing this recipe is to gather all the necessary ingredients and tools required for cooking. This includes boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, fresh pineapple chunks, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell pepper, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other desired seasonings.

Before commencing with the preparation of the kabobs, it’s essential to preheat the grill to a medium-high heat. While the grill is heating up, prepare the ingredients by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and slicing the pineapple, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper into similar sized chunks.

To assemble the kabobs, thread the prepared ingredients onto skewers in an alternating pattern of chicken, fruit, vegetables, and herbs. Make sure to leave a small space between each piece for even cooking and to prevent the ingredients from becoming too crowded on the skewer.

Once all the ingredients have been threaded onto the skewers, brush them lightly with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other desired seasonings. This will help to enhance the flavors of the dish and provide a rich and savory taste experience for those who consume it.

To add an extra layer of flavor to the kabobs, you can also prepare a simple sauce or marinade by combining olive oil, lime juice, and honey in a bowl. Brush this sauce onto the kabobs during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and tangy flavor experience that complements the grilled ingredients perfectly.

After assembling the kabobs, place them on the preheated grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the fruit and vegetables are tender. Make sure to turn the kabobs occasionally during cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

Once the kabobs have finished cooking, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices of the chicken to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful when sliced and served with a side of rice or your favorite vegetables.

In conclusion, preparing and assembling the Ultra Easy Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe requires attention to detail and adherence to specific instructions. However, with the right tools, ingredients, and cooking techniques, this dish can be created in just 30 minutes or less and provides an excellent option for a quick, healthy meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Preheat grill to mediumhigh heat.

To prepare this delicious and easy-to-make Ultra Easy Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe, follow these instructions carefully.

Step 1: Preheat Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 400-450°F or 200-230°C). Make sure the grates are clean and brush them with oil to prevent sticking. This will ensure even cooking and make it easy to remove the kabobs.

Step 2: Prepare Ingredients

• Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• Skinless boneless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Red onion, cut into wedges
• Bell pepper (any color), cut into large pieces
• Celery stalks, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Whisk or olive oil for brushing
• Seasonings of your choice (e.g. salt, pepper, garlic powder)

Step 3: Thread Kabobs

Using wooden skewers, thread a piece of chicken, followed by a pineapple chunk, a red onion wedge, bell pepper piece, and celery stalk. Repeat this pattern until your kabob is filled and secure.

Step 4: Brush with Whisk or Olive Oil

Lightly brush each kabob with whisk or olive oil to prevent drying out during cooking.

Step 5: Season to Taste

• Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder (or your preferred seasonings) over the kabobs.
• Toss gently to distribute evenly.

Step 6: Grill Kabobs

• Place kabobs on the preheated grill, leaving some space between them for even cooking.
• Close the grill lid to trap heat and promote thorough cooking.
• Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Ultra Easy Pineapple Chicken Kabobs hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a side dish of your choice. This recipe makes approximately 4-6 kabobs, so adjust quantities based on serving size.

Thread chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, and onion onto skewers.

To create delicious and visually appealing ultra-easy pineapple chicken kabobs, follow these simple steps:

Gather all the necessary ingredients, including 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces, 1 cup of fresh pineapple chunks, 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced into thin strips, and 1 onion, also sliced into thin rings.

First, prepare the skewers by threading a piece of chicken onto one end. This will serve as the anchor for your kabob. Make sure to handle the chicken safely, especially when working with raw meat.

Next, add some pineapple chunks onto the skewer, making sure to leave about 1-2 inches between each item for even cooking and presentation. Continue this pattern, alternating between chicken, bell pepper slices, and onion rings.

As you thread the ingredients onto the skewer, make sure not to overcrowd it. You want to allow enough space for air to circulate around each piece, ensuring they cook evenly and preventing any from steaming instead of grilling or broiling.

Repeat this process until all the chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, and onion are used up, finishing each kabob with a piece of chicken. You can usually fit 2-3 kabobs onto a standard-sized skewer, depending on their length.

Once you have completed threading all the ingredients, your ultra-easy pineapple chicken kabobs are ready to be grilled or broiled. Simply brush them with a bit of oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices before cooking according to your preference.

Grill or broil the kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Serve hot and enjoy!

Brush both sides of the kabobs with a mixture of olive oil, salt, and your choice of herbs or spices.

To begin preparing this delicious Ultra Easy Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe, it’s essential to focus on properly seasoning the kabobs.

The first step involves creating a mixture that will enhance the flavor of the chicken and other ingredients on the kabobs.

This mixture, which consists of olive oil, salt, and your chosen herbs or spices, plays a crucial role in bringing out the flavors of the dish.

To prepare this mixture, you can combine a small amount of olive oil, some granulated salt, and your preferred selection of herbs or spices in a small bowl. Some common choices for herbs or spices include dried oregano, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme.

Make sure to mix the ingredients well until they’re fully incorporated.

Once you have your mixture ready, it’s time to brush both sides of each kabob with it. This will ensure that every piece of chicken and vegetable is coated with the flavors you’ve created.

To do this, gently pick up a kabob and hold it over the bowl containing the mixture. Using a bamboo skewer or your fingers, spread the mixture evenly across both sides of the kabobs, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.

This process may take some time, but it’s worth the effort for the delicious flavor you’ll achieve.

After brushing both sides with the mixture, you can proceed with assembling the rest of your Ultra Easy Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe.

Tips and Variations

Customizing Your Kabobs

Kabobs are a versatile and delicious meal option that can be customized to suit any taste or dietary preference. To take your kabobs game to the next level, consider the following tips and variations:

**Meat Selection

• Pineapple chicken is a great starting point, but feel free to substitute with other protein sources like shrimp, beef, lamb, or tofu for a vegetarian option.

• Consider using a mix of different meats and vegetables to add texture and flavor variety to your kabobs.

**Vegetable Choices

• Pineapple chicken pairs well with classic combinations like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and potatoes. However, don’t be afraid to get creative!

• Try pairing sweet ingredients like pineapple and mango with savory meats like beef or lamb for a unique flavor combination.

**Marinade Magic

• A simple mixture of olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and salt makes a great base marinade. Feel free to experiment with other ingredients like citrus juice, ginger, or cumin for added depth.

• Let your kabobs marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour before grilling to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and vegetables.

**Grilling Techniques

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then reduce the temperature to medium once you’ve added the kabobs. This will ensure a nice sear on the outside while cooking the meat and vegetables through.

• Turn your kabobs frequently during grilling to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

**Dipping Sauces

• Serve your kabobs with a variety of dipping sauces like peanut sauce, teriyaki sauce, or tzatziki to add extra flavor and fun.

• Consider making your own sauces from scratch using ingredients like soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and lemon juice for added customization.

With these tips and variations in mind, feel free to experiment with different combinations of meats, vegetables, marinades, and grilling techniques to create the perfect kabobs for your taste buds. Enjoy!

For added flavor, marinate chicken in your favorite sauce or seasoning before grilling.

To enhance the flavor and aroma of the pineapple chicken kabobs, consider marinating the chicken in your preferred sauce or seasoning before grilling.

This step adds a layer of depth to the dish, allowing the flavors to meld together and intensify as the chicken cooks on the grill. You can use store-bought marinades, homemade mixtures, or even try new combinations like Asian-style soy sauce, Italian-inspired herbs, or spicy Cajun seasoning.

For a tropical twist, marinate the chicken in a mixture of pineapple juice, brown sugar, and a hint of ginger. Alternatively, opt for a smoky flavor by mixing olive oil with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

You can also get creative with your marinade by incorporating ingredients like honey, lemon zest, chopped fresh herbs, or even a splash of hot sauce. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and find the perfect combination for your taste buds.

When marinating the chicken, be sure to coat it evenly and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. You can also marinate it for several hours or even overnight for a more intense flavor profile.

Remember, the key to a great marinade is balance – you want to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken without overpowering them. So don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of seasoning or sauce according to your taste preferences.

Once the chicken is marinated and ready to grill, brush it with a little more oil and seasonings if needed, then cook it alongside the pineapple chunks on skewers until cooked through and lightly charred. The result will be a deliciously flavorful and visually appealing dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Try using different types of produce, such as zucchini or cherry tomatoes, to change up the flavor and texture of your kabobs.

Tips and Variations:

One of the best things about this ultra easy pineapple chicken kabobs recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different types of produce to change up the flavor and texture of your kabobs.

For example, if you want to add a bit of crunch to your kabobs, try using zucchini or yellow squash in place of some of the pineapple slices. The slightly sweet and nutty flavor of these summer squashes pairs perfectly with the smoky chicken and spicy peppers.

Cherry tomatoes are another great option for adding some sweetness and texture to your kabobs. Simply thread cherry tomatoes onto the skewers along with chunks of chicken, onion, and bell pepper for a colorful and flavorful combination.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with other types of produce as well, such as mushrooms, eggplant, or even pineapple’s tropical cousin, mango!

In addition to changing up the type of produce you use, you can also try adding different seasonings and spices to give your kabobs an extra kick. For example, add a sprinkle of cumin or chili powder for a Southwestern-inspired flavor, or mix in some chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a fresh and herbaceous taste.

Another great tip is to marinate your chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and ginger before threading it onto the skewers. This adds an extra layer of flavor and helps to tenderize the chicken for even faster cooking.

Finally, don’t be afraid to get a little messy and experiment with different combinations of ingredients. Remember, the key to creating delicious kabobs is to have fun and not be afraid to try new things!

By trying out these tips and variations, you’ll be able to create an endless variety of tasty and visually appealing kabobs that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.