Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering fusion of sweet and savory that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure! These Pineapple Apricot Chicken Skewers are not just a meal; they're a tropical escape on a stick that promises to transport you to a flavor paradise with every single bite. Imagine succulent chicken chunks caramelized with a luscious apricot-ginger glaze, perfectly charred and interspersed with juicy pineapple chunks that burst with sunshine-sweet goodness.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup apricot preserves
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- Skewers
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by cutting chicken breast into uniform 1-inch cubes. Ensure all pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine apricot preserves, soy sauce, and minced ginger. Whisk thoroughly to create a smooth marinade.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to cooking to prevent burning during grilling.
- Alternate threading chicken cubes and fresh pineapple chunks onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Brush the prepared skewers generously with the apricot-ginger marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F/204°C).
- Place skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, rotating to achieve even golden-brown char marks.
- Baste skewers with additional marinade during cooking to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
- Remove skewers from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions if desired, and serve immediately with rice or salad.
Tips
- Always use uniform chicken cube sizes to ensure even cooking and prevent dry or undercooked spots.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during grilling.
- Don't rush the marinating process - let the chicken absorb the flavors for maximum taste impact.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken is cooked to the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Baste frequently during grilling to keep the meat moist and enhance the caramelization of the marinade.
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or fresh herbs like cilantro before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 90mg