Savor the Taste of Summer: Chicken Pineapple Kabobs
As the days grow longer and the warmth of the sun becomes a daily delight, it’s clear that grilling season is upon us. What better way to embrace these blissful months than with a dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer? Enter Chicken Pineapple Kabobs: a vibrant, flavorful recipe that combines the juicy sweetness of pineapple with the savory richness of teriyaki-glazed chicken. This dish is not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes, thanks to the colorful medley of chicken, pineapple, peppers, and onions. It’s a balanced meal that promises both nutrition and a burst of flavors.
Ingredients
To bring this delightful dish to life, you’ll need:
For the Kabobs:
- 2 lbs chicken tenders, cut into large chunks
- 1 yellow pepper, seeded and cut into chunks
- 1 red pepper, seeded and cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/2 whole, fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
For the Homemade Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Directions
- Preparation: Begin by preheating your outdoor grill, ensuring it’s ready for the skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for a few hours beforehand to prevent burning.
- Assemble the Kabobs: Thread the chicken, yellow pepper, red pepper, red onion, and pineapple chunks onto the skewers. Alternate the ingredients to create a visually appealing and flavorful arrangement.
- Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small pot, whisk together the soy sauce, water, cornstarch, sesame oil, garlic powder, ground ginger, brown sugar, and honey. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the sesame seeds.
- Grill and Baste: Place the skewers on the hot grill and baste them with the homemade teriyaki sauce. Continue to grill, turning and basting occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked—about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- Serve: Arrange the grilled kabobs over a bed of brown rice, allowing the flavors to mingle and the dish to present itself in all its glory.
Serving Suggestions
These Chicken Pineapple Kabobs are perfect for a summer barbecue, a casual family dinner, or a festive gathering with friends. They embody the season’s best flavors and offer a balanced, nutritious meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
Conclusion
With just 25 minutes from start to finish, these Chicken Pineapple Kabobs are not only a quick and easy meal option but also a vibrant celebration of summer’s bounty. The combination of homemade teriyaki sauce and fresh ingredients ensures a burst of flavor in every bite, making this dish a surefire hit for any occasion. So fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy a taste of summer that will keep you coming back for more.