The sun is shining, and the air is filled with the enticing aroma of grilled delicacies—there’s something undeniably wonderful about summer cookouts. Recently, while rummaging through my pantry, I stumbled upon a forgotten jar of chipotle chiles, a splash of tamari, and a fresh batch of ripe pineapple. Inspired by this unexpected treasure trove, I set out to create a dish that captures the essence of warm-weather grilling: Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers.
These skewers are a fiesta on a stick! Juicy chunks of chicken marinated in a zesty mix of smoky chipotle, sweet honey, and a hint of ginger, paired with caramelized pineapple that bursts with sweetness. Served alongside a creamy bang bang sauce that balances tang and texture, this dish is ideal for summer gatherings, laid-back family dinners, or just a delightful weeknight treat. Let’s dive into this quick and easy recipe that’s bound to please every palate!
Why try Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Flavor Explosion: The unique combination of spicy chipotle and sweet pineapple creates a wonderful contrast that excites your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these skewers ready to grill in no time.
Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a family dinner, these skewers are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.
Healthy and Gluten-Free: Made with fresh ingredients, this dish is not only delicious but also fits gluten-free diets.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, and enjoy different marinades for unique flavor profiles.
Stunning Presentation: The vibrant colors of the skewers make for an eye-catching dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat!
Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Ingredients
• Ready to embark on a tropical grilling adventure? Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Marinade
- Extra virgin olive oil – Provides moisture and aids in marinating the chicken; substitute with avocado oil if needed.
- Tomato paste – Adds depth and richness to the marinade; can substitute with equal parts ketchup.
- Tamari/Soy sauce – Offers salty umami flavor; use gluten-free tamari for a gluten-free version.
- Honey – Provides sweetness and balances the spice; maple syrup can be an alternative.
- Chopped pickled ginger – Offers a tangy kick to the dish; fresh ginger can be used if preferred.
- Chipotle chiles in adobo – Gives the marinade its distinct smoky heat; substitute with chipotle powder if unavailable.
- Sweet or smoked paprika – Enhances flavor with a mild peppery note; can replace with a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Fresh thyme – Adds aromatic freshness; can use dried thyme in a pinch.
- Kosher salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste.
For the Skewers
- Chicken breasts/thighs – The main protein source, cut into bite-sized chunks for even cooking.
- Fresh pineapple chunks – Offers juiciness and sweetness; swap with mango for a different flavor.
- Green onions and basil – For garnish, brightening the dish with herbal notes.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base for the bang bang sauce.
- Sweet Thai chili sauce – Provides sweetness and a hint of heat in the sauce.
- Garlic – Adds depth to the flavor profile of the dipping sauce; can use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
- Lime zest – Provides a citrusy aroma to the sauce; lemon zest can be used as a substitute.
How to Make Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
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Blend the Marinade: In a blender, combine the olive oil, tomato paste, tamari, honey, chopped ginger, chipotle chiles, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
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Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken chunks with the chipotle marinade. Allow it to sit covered in the refrigerator, ideally for up to 48 hours, to develop the rich flavors.
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Prepare the Skewers: Alternate threading the marinated chicken and fresh pineapple chunks onto skewers. This creates a colorful and appetizing presentation.
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Heat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re lightly charred and fully cooked.
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Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, tamari, grated garlic, lime zest, and pickled ginger. Mix thoroughly until the sauce is creamy and well-combined.
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Serve and Enjoy: Plate the skewers with fresh lime wedges and sprinkle green onions and basil for garnish. Serve with the bang bang sauce for dipping to enhance the flavors.
Optional: Serve these delicious skewers with coconut rice for a tropical meal experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are an excellent choice for meal prep, helping you save time during busy weeknights. You can marinate the chicken in the chipotle sauce up to 48 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to really meld and ensuring every bite is absolutely delicious. Additionally, you can assemble the skewers with marinated chicken and pineapple chunks and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before grilling. This way, when it’s time to cook, all you need to do is preheat the grill and cook the skewers for about 10-12 minutes until they’re charred and juicy. Just remember to keep the skewers covered in the fridge to maintain their quality and freshness!
Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Variations
Customize your skewers and bring your unique flair to the table with these tasty ideas!
- Shrimp Swap: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a light and succulent alternative that cooks quickly on the grill.
- Tofu Treat: Replace chicken with firm tofu, marinated the same way for a vegetarian-friendly option bursting with flavor.
- Fruit Fusion: Substitute pineapple with peaches or zucchini for a delightful twist that offers a different taste and texture.
- Mango Magic: Try swapping the pineapple chunks for fresh mango for a sweet, tropical burst that complements the heat beautifully.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra kick, perfect for those who love a bit more heat.
- Citrus Boost: Experiment with lemon or orange juice in the marinade for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the dish.
- Herb Enhancement: Include fresh basil or cilantro in the marinade for an aromatic herbaceous flavor that elevates the entire skewer experience.
- Alternative Marinades: Switch the marinade to teriyaki or a citrus blend for unique twists that cater to different tastes and cravings.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own show-stopping skewers that everyone will love!
Storage Tips for Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Fridge: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their delicious flavors and freshness.
Freezer: If you need to freeze, place the marinated chicken and pineapple in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; defrost in the fridge before grilling.
Reheating: To reheat, simply grill the thawed skewers over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through. Enjoy your Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers even on a busy day!
Make-Ahead: Prepare your skewers in advance by marinating for up to 48 hours in the fridge. They’ll be ready for grilling at a moment’s notice!
What to Serve with Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Elevate your summer grilling experience with delightful pairings that complement the bold flavors of these juicy skewers.
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Coconut Rice: This fluffy side dish adds a creamy and tropical flair, perfectly balancing the spicy and sweet notes of the skewers.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred to perfection, the sweet crunch of corn enhances the skewers’ bold flavors and adds a fun texture to your meal.
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Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A crisp salad dressed in lime with herbs brings a bright, zesty contrast that refreshes each bite of skewered goodness.
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Lime Wedges: Offers a simple yet zesty addition, squeezing fresh lime over the skewers brightens the flavors even more.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: Combining diced mango, kiwi, and berries adds a sweet, juicy side that mirrors the sweetness of the pineapple, making your meal vibrant.
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Margaritas: These refreshing cocktails accentuate the smoky and spicy elements, adding a festive touch to your summer gatherings.
Enjoy these pairing suggestions to create a balanced, exhilarating, and mouth-watering meal that highlights your Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Expert Tips for Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
- Uniform Chicken Sizes: Cut chicken chunks to similar sizes for even cooking; this avoids dry pieces while ensuring juicy goodness in every bite.
- Marinade Time: Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 1 hour, but preferably up to 48 hours, to maximize flavor in your Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers.
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning while grilling, ensuring your meal turns out perfectly.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Taste the marinade and adjust the chipotle content according to your preferred spice level—don’t be shy to make it your own!
- Grill Check: For those using a grill pan indoors, ensure it’s preheated well to get that perfect char on the skewers; don’t rush this step!
Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs
What type of pineapple should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use fresh pineapple chunks that are ripe and sweet. Look for pineapples that have a fragrant aroma and firm, golden skin. Avoid any that have dark spots or are overly soft, as these can indicate overripeness.
How should I store leftover skewers?
To keep your Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat to maintain their juicy texture.
Can I freeze the chicken and pineapple skewers?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken and pineapple! Place them in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out excess air, and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply defrost them in the fridge overnight before grilling.
What if I don’t have chipotle chiles in adobo?
No problem! If chipotle chiles in adobo are unavailable, you can substitute them with chipotle powder for a similar smoky flavor. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to your spice preference, keeping in mind that dried spices can be more potent.
Are these skewers allergy-friendly?
These Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers can easily be adapted for various dietary needs! Substitute tamari for gluten-free soy sauce, and for a dairy-free option, select vegan mayo for the bang bang sauce. Always check labels for allergens to ensure safety.
What are the best grilling tips for even cooking?
For perfectly grilled skewers, cut your chicken pieces into uniform sizes—about 1 to 1.5 inches. This ensures they cook evenly. Also, remember to soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning on the grill. Happy grilling!
Savor Summer with Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a blender, combine the olive oil, tomato paste, tamari, honey, chopped ginger, chipotle chiles, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- In a bowl, mix the chicken chunks with the chipotle marinade. Allow it to sit covered in the refrigerator, ideally for up to 48 hours, to develop the rich flavors.
- Alternate threading the marinated chicken and fresh pineapple chunks onto skewers.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally until they're lightly charred and fully cooked.
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, tamari, grated garlic, lime zest, and pickled ginger. Mix thoroughly until the sauce is creamy and well-combined.
- Plate the skewers with fresh lime wedges and sprinkle green onions and basil for garnish. Serve with the bang bang sauce for dipping.