If you are craving a dish that is bursting with bold flavors and a perfect harmony of sweet, smoky, and spicy notes, the Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe is your new go-to barbecue sensation. This recipe combines succulent grilled chicken with juicy pineapple chunks, all glazed with a creamy and tangy bang bang sauce that features smoky chipotle peppers giving it a vibrant kick. It’s a refreshing twist on classic skewers that’s perfect for summer gatherings or any time you want a little fiesta on your plate. The layers of texture and the balanced flavors will make this a dish you’ll want to share and savor again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential for creating that mouthwatering balance of smoky heat, fruity sweetness, and creamy tang. Each one plays a role in delivering the vibrant color, irresistible aroma, and perfect texture of the skewers.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes for even cooking and juicy bites.
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks: Adds a natural sweetness and a juicy punch that complements the chipotle heat.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Essential for threading the chicken and pineapple for easy grilling and flipping.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps coat the chicken for a tender, flavorful result and prevents sticking on the grill.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken pieces perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and aroma that complements the smoky chipotle.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a warm smokiness and beautiful color.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts umami and depth without overwhelming the other flavors.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the bang bang sauce for richness.
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce: Brings sweetness with a gentle spicy tingle to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Balances the heat with a natural sweetness and shiny glaze.
- 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo (finely minced): The star ingredient that delivers smoky heat and depth in the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Provides a bright citrus zing to cut through the richness.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a fresh herbal note and vibrant green color for garnishing.
How to Make Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers and Chicken
If you’re using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for at least 20 minutes so they don’t burn on the grill. While those soak, toss the cubed chicken in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Make sure every piece is coated warmly with this spice blend—it’s the foundation for the smoky, savory chicken flavor.
Step 2: Thread the Skewers
Alternate threading the chicken pieces and the fresh pineapple chunks onto the skewers. This not only looks fantastic but also ensures each bite has that exciting contrast between juicy fruit and tender chicken. Don’t overcrowd the skewers, allowing enough space for heat to circulate and for even cooking.
Step 3: Preheat and Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates for a smooth grilling experience. Grill the skewers for 10 to 12 minutes total, turning every few minutes. You want to achieve beautiful grill marks and make sure the chicken is cooked through, juicy inside but crisped lightly at the edges.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Bang Bang Sauce
While the skewers are cooking, mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, honey, minced chipotle peppers in adobo, and lime juice in a bowl. This creamy, tangy sauce is where the magic happens—its bold flavors elevate the simple grilled ingredients into something spectacular with heat, sweetness, and refreshing citrus notes.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish Grilling
During the last two minutes of grilling, brush the skewers generously with the chipotle pineapple bang bang sauce. This lets the sauce caramelize slightly on the heat, clinging perfectly to each bite. Once done, remove from the grill and consider drizzling even more sauce on top for an extra punch of flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro if you like. It adds that fresh, bright garnish that’s a perfect foil to the richness of the sauce and the smoky chicken.
How to Serve Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or even a few thin slices of red chili can add additional color and brightness. A wedge of lime on the side invites a fresh squeeze to enhance the citrus notes already in the dish.
Side Dishes
Serve your skewers alongside a simple cilantro-lime rice or a crisp green salad. Grilled corn on the cob or a light quinoa salad with fresh veggies can also complement the sweet and spicy flavors beautifully, rounding out a vibrant, wholesome meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, present the skewers on a wooden board lined with banana leaves for an island vibe. You can also serve them with small bowls of extra bang bang sauce for dipping, turning the meal into a lively, interactive experience perfect for sharing with friends or family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep any extra sauce separate if you want to brush it on fresh before reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked skewers by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze them without the sauce to maintain texture and freshness when reheated.
Reheating
Reheat the skewers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat or briefly under the broiler to regain that lightly charred flavor. Add the bang bang sauce after reheating to maintain its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice if you prefer juicier, more flavorful meat. Just cut them into similar-sized cubes and follow the same marinating and cooking times.
What if I don’t have fresh pineapple?
You can use canned pineapple chunks packed in juice, but fresh pineapple offers the best texture and natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the smoky chipotle flavor.
How spicy is the Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the chipotle peppers in adobo, balanced by the honey and sweet chili sauce. If you like it hotter, feel free to add more chipotle or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade or sauce.
Can I make this recipe indoors if I don’t have a grill?
Yes! Use a grill pan on your stovetop or cook the skewers under a broiler, turning them to get nice char marks and even cooking. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free sweet chili sauce. Always check your condiments to be sure.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe that makes it feel like a celebration of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a dazzling weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers maximum yum with minimal fuss. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress yourself and everyone at your table with this unforgettable dish!
Print
Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Chipotle Pineapple Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a flavorful fusion dish combining tender grilled chicken with sweet pineapple chunks and a spicy, creamy bang bang sauce. Perfect for summer grilling, this recipe offers a delightful balance of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors that will impress at any cookout or family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Skewers
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 1/2 inch cubes
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- Wooden or metal skewers
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Prepare Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until evenly coated for a flavorful base.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread the chicken pieces and pineapple chunks alternately onto the skewers, ensuring even distribution for balanced cooking and flavor.
- Preheat Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning every few minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and has light char marks.
- Make Bang Bang Sauce: While grilling, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, honey, minced chipotle peppers, and lime juice in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
- Brush Sauce: During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush the skewers generously with the bang bang sauce to add a spicy, creamy glaze.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill, drizzle with additional sauce if desired, sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro, and serve hot.
Notes
- For additional heat, add more chipotle peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the bang bang sauce.
- If grilling outdoors isn’t possible, these skewers can be cooked under a broiler or on an indoor grill pan.
- Soaking wooden skewers is important to prevent burning and ensure safe grilling.
