Jerk Chicken Pineapple Skewers (Printable Version)

Marinated chicken paired with pineapple and peppers, grilled for a flavorful Caribbean-inspired dish.

# Ingredient List:

→ Jerk Marinade

01 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
02 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
03 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
04 - 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
05 - 1 teaspoon ground allspice
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1 teaspoon ground ginger
08 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
09 - 4 garlic cloves, minced
10 - 1 Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper, seeded and finely chopped
11 - 4 spring onions, chopped
12 - Juice of 1 lime
13 - 1 teaspoon salt
14 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

→ Meats and Produce

15 - 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
16 - 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
17 - 1 medium yellow bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
18 - 1 small fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1.5-inch chunks

→ To Serve

19 - Fresh lime wedges
20 - Chopped cilantro

# Directions:

01 - Combine all marinade ingredients in a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.
02 - Place chicken pieces in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour marinade over the chicken, toss until fully coated, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.
03 - Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes.
04 - Thread marinated chicken, pineapple, and bell pepper pieces alternately onto skewers, dividing ingredients evenly across all skewers.
05 - Place skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and develops light charring on the surface.
06 - Transfer skewers to a serving platter. Garnish with lime wedges and chopped cilantro if desired, and serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Authentic Flavor: A homemade jerk marinade provides a complex, aromatic heat that store-bought versions can't match.
  • Balanced Profile: The natural sugars in the grilled pineapple perfectly offset the spice of the Scotch bonnet peppers.
  • Dietary Friendly: Naturally dairy-free and easily made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
02 -
  • Extra Flavor: For an even bolder taste, brush the skewers with any reserved marinade while they are on the grill, but ensure you boil the marinade first for safety.
  • Safety First: Always wash your hands and surfaces thoroughly after handling the spicy peppers and raw chicken.
  • Uniformity: Cutting the chicken, peppers, and pineapple into consistent 1.5-inch pieces ensures they all cook evenly at the same time.
Go Back