Grilled Pineapple Jerk Chicken

Featured in: Grilling

These skewers feature tender chicken cubes soaked in a flavorful jerk marinade, combined with juicy pineapple and colorful bell peppers. Grilled to perfection, the chicken develops a smoky char while the pineapple caramelizes, creating a vibrant balance of spicy, sweet, and smoky notes. Ideal for summer cookouts or a quick weeknight meal, they pair wonderfully with coconut rice or fresh salads. Adjust heat levels with Scotch bonnet chili or hot sauce for a personalized kick.

Updated on Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:43:00 GMT
Juicy Grilled Pineapple & Jerk Chicken Skewers with vibrant bell peppers and sweet marinade.  Save to Pinterest
Juicy Grilled Pineapple & Jerk Chicken Skewers with vibrant bell peppers and sweet marinade. | buddybiteskitchen.com

Juicy chicken marinated in spicy jerk seasoning, grilled with sweet pineapple and colorful peppers perfect for summer grilling and bursting with Caribbean flavor.

This recipe quickly became a favorite at my BBQs especially because of the sweet and spicy combination that everyone loves

Ingredients

  • For the Jerk Marinade: 2 tablespoons olive oil , 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice , 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use gluten-free if needed) , 1 tablespoon brown sugar , 2 teaspoons allspice , 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon , 1 teaspoon dried thyme , 1 teaspoon smoked paprika , 1 teaspoon salt , ½ teaspoon ground black pepper , ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) , 2 garlic cloves , minced , 1 small Scotch bonnet chili , finely chopped (optional , for heat) , 2 green onions , finely chopped
  • For the Skewers: 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless , skinless chicken breasts , cut into 1.5-inch cubes , 2 cups fresh pineapple , cut into 1.5-inch chunks , 1 large red bell pepper , cut into 1.5-inch pieces , 1 large yellow bell pepper , cut into 1.5-inch pieces , 1 large red onion , cut into 1.5-inch wedges , Vegetable oil , for brushing

Instructions

Step 1:
In a bowl , whisk together all jerk marinade ingredients until well combined.
Step 2:
Add chicken cubes to the marinade , toss to coat , cover , and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight for best flavor).
Step 3:
If using wooden skewers , soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 4:
Thread marinated chicken , pineapple , bell peppers , and onion alternately onto skewers.
Step 5:
Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates lightly.
Step 6:
Grill skewers for 12 15 minutes , turning occasionally , until chicken is cooked through and lightly charred , and the pineapple is caramelized.
Step 7:
Remove from grill , let rest for 2 minutes , and serve hot.
Delicious Grilled Pineapple & Jerk Chicken Skewers, perfect for summer barbecues.  Save to Pinterest
Delicious Grilled Pineapple & Jerk Chicken Skewers, perfect for summer barbecues. | buddybiteskitchen.com

My family gathers around every summer to enjoy these flavorful skewers , making memories and savoring every bite.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with coconut rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that balances heat and sweetness.

Variations

Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian friendly option marinate for only 30 minutes for best results.

Storage

Marinated chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours and leftovers keep well refrigerated for 2 days.

Savory Grilled Pineapple & Jerk Chicken Skewers sizzling on the grill, inviting and colorful. Save to Pinterest
Savory Grilled Pineapple & Jerk Chicken Skewers sizzling on the grill, inviting and colorful. | buddybiteskitchen.com

These skewers are sure to impress at your next cookout with their vibrant flavors and simple preparation.

Grilled Pineapple Jerk Chicken

Spicy jerk-marinated chicken grilled with sweet pineapple and colorful bell peppers for a Caribbean twist.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Created By Max Buddyfield

Recipe Category Grilling

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type Caribbean

Recipe Yield 4 Number of Servings

Dietary Preferences Free of Dairy, Free of Gluten

What You'll Need

Jerk Marinade

01 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
03 2 tablespoons soy sauce (gluten-free if needed)
04 1 tablespoon brown sugar
05 2 teaspoons allspice
06 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 1 teaspoon dried thyme
08 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 1 teaspoon salt
10 ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
11 ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
12 2 garlic cloves, minced
13 1 small Scotch bonnet chili, finely chopped (optional)
14 2 green onions, finely chopped

Skewers

01 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
02 2 cups fresh pineapple, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
03 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
04 1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
05 1 large red onion, cut into 1.5-inch wedges
06 Vegetable oil, for brushing

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Prepare Marinade: Whisk together all jerk marinade ingredients in a bowl until fully combined.

Step 02

Marinate Chicken: Add chicken cubes to marinade, toss to coat evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for enhanced flavor.

Step 03

Soak Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.

Step 04

Assemble Skewers: Thread marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, red and yellow bell peppers, and red onion alternately onto the skewers.

Step 05

Preheat Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Step 06

Grill Skewers: Grill assembled skewers for 12 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through, lightly charred, and pineapple is caramelized.

Step 07

Rest and Serve: Remove skewers from grill, allow to rest for 2 minutes, then serve immediately while hot.

Tools You'll Need

  • Grill (gas or charcoal)
  • Skewers (metal or wooden)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Grill tongs
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Basting brush

Allergy Warnings

Review each ingredient carefully for allergens. If unsure, consult with a healthcare provider.
  • Contains soy from soy sauce.
  • May contain gluten if regular soy sauce is used; gluten-free version recommended for intolerance.
  • Scotch bonnet peppers are very spicy; handle with care and wash hands after use.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for general information only. Always consult a healthcare professional for dietary concerns.
  • Calorie Count: 340
  • Fat Content: 8 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 28 grams
  • Protein Content: 37 grams