Go Back
As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, outdoor cooking becomes an irresistible temptation. One dish that perfectly encapsulates the vibrant essence of summer is Tropical Chicken Skewers with Pineapple Salsa. This dish not only brings a burst of tropical flavors to your palate but also offers a delightful way to enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a picnic at the park, or simply looking to spice up your weeknight dinners, these skewers are sure to impress.

Chicken Skewers with Pineapple Salsa

Bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen with these flavorful Tropical Chicken Skewers paired with refreshing pineapple salsa. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or weeknight dinners, this dish combines juicy, marinated chicken with sweet and tangy salsa for a vibrant meal. It's not only delicious but also healthy, featuring lean protein and fresh ingredients that everyone can enjoy. Discover how to create this mouthwatering recipe that captures the essence of summer!

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Skewers:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Juice of 1 lime

For the Pineapple Salsa:

1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or canned if fresh is unavailable)

½ red bell pepper, finely chopped

¼ red onion, finely chopped

1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for desired heat)

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

Juice of 1 lime

Salt to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and lime juice. Mix well.

    Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the marinade mixture, making sure the chicken is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.

      Make the Pineapple Salsa: In a separate bowl, combine diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

        Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.

          Assemble the Skewers: Thread pieces of marinated chicken onto the skewers. Feel free to alternate with chunks of bell pepper or onion for added color and flavor.

            Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has nice grill marks.

              Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and serve them hot. Top each skewer with a generous scoop of pineapple salsa. Pair with rice or a fresh salad if desired.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings