Save to Pinterest Nothing captures the essence of summer quite like the sizzle of a grill and the vibrant aroma of citrus and honey. These Honey-Lime Grilled Chicken Skewers with Zucchini and Pineapple combine juicy, marinated protein with the natural sweetness of charred fruit and fresh vegetables for a meal that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Save to Pinterest Whether you are hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a light weeknight dinner, these skewers bring a tropical flair to your plate. The contrast between the savory garlic and smoked paprika and the burst of warm pineapple makes every bite exciting.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Marinade: 1½ lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1½-inch cubes), 3 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, 2 tsp lime zest, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 garlic cloves (minced), 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Vegetables & Fruit: 2 medium zucchinis (sliced into ½-inch rounds), 1 small pineapple (peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks)
- To Serve: Fresh cilantro (chopped, optional), lime wedges
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Step 2
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Step 3
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Step 4
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
- Step 5
- Thread marinated chicken, zucchini slices, and pineapple chunks alternately onto skewers, ending with chicken.
- Step 6
- Grill the skewers for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred on the edges.
- Step 7
- Remove from grill and rest for 3 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure even cooking, try to cut your chicken, zucchini, and pineapple into uniform sizes. If you are using wooden skewers, don't skip the soaking step, as this prevents them from catching fire on the hot grill. Additionally, marinating for the full two hours will yield the most flavorful results.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra juiciness, you can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs. If you prefer a bit of heat, add half a teaspoon of chili flakes to the marinade to create a spicy-sweet contrast that pairs perfectly with the pineapple.
Serviervorschläge
These skewers pair beautifully with a side of white rice, couscous, or a fresh green salad. To round out the meal, serve with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the citrus and honey glaze perfectly.
Save to Pinterest With their bright colors and bold flavors, these skewers are more than just a meal—they are a celebration of summer grilling at its finest. Fire up the grill and enjoy this vibrant, juicy dish tonight!
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → How long should the chicken marinate?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to soak up the honey-lime flavors; up to 2 hours intensifies the taste.
- → What is the best way to prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to keep them from burning.
- → Can I substitute zucchini with other vegetables?
Yes, vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes work well as vibrant and complementary alternatives.
- → How do I know when the chicken skewers are cooked?
Chicken is done when its juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), with slight char marks on the surface.
- → What sides pair well with honey-lime grilled chicken skewers?
Fresh green salads, couscous, or rice complement the dish nicely, balancing the sweet and tangy flavors.
- → Can smoked paprika be omitted?
Yes, the smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth but the skewers remain flavorful without it.