Save to Pinterest When you're looking for an appetizer that delivers big flavor with minimal effort, these Air Fryer Chicken Pineapple Bites are your answer. Golden, juicy chicken meets the tropical sweetness of pineapple in every perfectly seasoned bite. They're gluten-free, dairy-free, and ready in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for game day gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you need a crowd-pleasing snack that looks as impressive as it tastes.
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The magic of this recipe lies in the honey-soy marinade that caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer while keeping the chicken incredibly tender. Each skewer pairs marinated chicken with a chunk of fresh pineapple, creating a sweet-savory combination that's absolutely irresistible. The air fryer does all the work, giving you perfectly cooked bites with a gorgeous golden color and none of the mess of traditional frying.
Ingredients
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- 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g / 14 oz)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 small fresh pineapple (or 1 can pineapple chunks, drained)
- 24 toothpicks or small skewers
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes.
- Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes, toss well to coat, and marinate for 10–15 minutes (or cover and refrigerate up to 2 hours).
- Step 3: Prep the Pineapple
- While the chicken marinates, peel, core, and cut the pineapple into 1-inch chunks (or drain canned pineapple).
- Step 4: Preheat Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Step 5: Assemble the Bites
- Thread one piece of marinated chicken and one pineapple chunk onto each toothpick or mini skewer.
- Step 6: Arrange in Air Fryer
- Arrange the bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding).
- Step 7: Air Fry
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
- Step 8: Serve
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For best results, ensure your chicken pieces are uniformly sized so they cook evenly. If you have time, marinating the chicken for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator will deepen the flavors significantly. Don't skip preheating your air fryer—it helps achieve that perfect golden exterior. When arranging the bites in the basket, leave a little space between each one to allow hot air to circulate properly. If your air fryer is smaller, cook in batches rather than overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand. Substitute turkey breast or firm tofu for a different protein option—tofu works especially well for a vegetarian version. Swap the pineapple for mango chunks for a different tropical twist, or use bell pepper pieces for a more savory profile. If you prefer extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or brush the bites with sriracha before serving. For a teriyaki-style version, replace the soy sauce and honey with bottled teriyaki sauce. You can also experiment with different marinades entirely, such as a Caribbean jerk seasoning or a simple lemon-herb combination.
Serviervorschläge
These chicken pineapple bites are perfect as a standalone appetizer, but they shine even brighter when paired with complementary dips and sides. Serve them with sweet chili sauce or teriyaki dip on the side for extra flavor. For a complete party spread, arrange them on a platter with other finger foods like spring rolls or vegetable crudités. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or green onions just before serving for a fresh, colorful garnish. A light sprinkle of sesame seeds adds both visual appeal and a subtle nutty flavor. These bites are best enjoyed warm, so serve them straight from the air fryer for maximum impact at your gathering.
Save to Pinterest Whether you're hosting a party, need a quick weeknight snack, or want to impress guests with minimal effort, these Air Fryer Chicken Pineapple Bites deliver every time. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken and sweet caramelized pineapple creates a taste sensation that keeps everyone coming back for more. With just 27 minutes from start to finish and ingredients you likely already have, this recipe proves that impressive appetizers don't have to be complicated. Make them once, and they'll become your go-to recipe for any occasion that calls for delicious, crowd-pleasing finger food.
