Healthy Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Skewers: 3 Foolproof Steps for Juicy, Flavor-Packed Grilling

There’s something special about skewers that makes dinner feel fun, colorful, and family-friendly. These Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Skewers combine juicy chicken thighs, sweet pineapple chunks, and vibrant vegetables, all glazed in a glossy homemade teriyaki sauce. Unlike store-bought sauces loaded with preservatives, this version uses fresh lime, garlic, and ginger to create a tangy-sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. You’ll find these Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Skewers an irresistible option for your next cookout.

This recipe is:

• Packed with protein and colorful vegetables
• Naturally gluten-free if using GF soy sauce or tamari
• Easy enough for weeknight meals but special enough for cookouts

Why This Recipe Works

The key to keeping the chicken moist is using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They hold up better under high heat and soak in the marinade, making every bite juicy and flavorful. The homemade teriyaki sauce is balanced with just the right sweetness, acidity, and umami depth. Paired with caramelized pineapple and crisp vegetables, each skewer is a perfect mix of flavors and textures.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Skewers

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size chunks
• 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares
• 1 zucchini, sliced thick
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Teriyaki Sauce & Marinade:

• ½ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• ¼ cup honey or brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry, optional for thickening)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, lime juice, garlic, and ginger. Reserve ¼ cup for glazing. Add chicken pieces to the rest and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).
2. Assemble the Skewers: Thread chicken, pineapple, bell peppers, zucchini, and onion onto skewers, alternating for color and balance.
3. Grill to Perfection: Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Place skewers on the grill and cook 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally. Brush with reserved teriyaki sauce for a glossy finish. Serve hot.

Expert Tips for the Best Skewers

For the juiciest results, soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. If you prefer thicker sauce, simmer the reserved marinade with cornstarch slurry until glossy. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.

Serving Ideas

These skewers are perfect with steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, or even a simple quinoa salad. They also make a great appetizer for summer parties. For a full tropical spread, pair them with fresh mango salsa or a crisp cucumber salad.Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Skewers can be easily customized with your favorite veggies.

Health Benefits

This recipe brings together lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and fresh pineapple loaded with vitamin C. Using chicken thighs ensures healthy fats that balance flavor and satiety, while the homemade teriyaki sauce keeps things lighter and cleaner than bottled versions.

Storage & Meal Prep

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stove to avoid drying out. You can also prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time just assemble the skewers right before grilling. And Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Skewers are great for meal prepping and can be stored easily.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Skewers are everything you want in a summer dinner juicy, flavorful, colorful, and nourishing. They’re easy to make, customizable with your favorite veggies, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Wrap-Up

With its tropical flavors, glossy teriyaki glaze, and foolproof 3-step method, these Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Skewers are the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or outdoor cookouts, they strike the balance between easy prep and bold, unforgettable taste.

Juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and tangy teriyaki come together in every bite, creating a vibrant dish that feels both comforting and exciting. Their colorful look makes them as beautiful on the table as they are satisfying to eat, which is why they’re always a hit at gatherings.

These skewers are a summer essential ideal as a main dish or even as a shareable appetizer. Pair them with your favorite sides and make them a regular part of your grilling rotation for meals that feel fresh, lively, and full of flavor. This dish is quick, satisfying, and supports smart cooking habits that align with USDA home cooking principles

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