Il Cucinologo
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Marinated Pineapple Skewers

17/11/2023

Pineapple marinated skewers are a great treat for the palate, especially if you’re looking for a mix of sweet and savory. Here is an Italian version of the dish, with a Mediterranean touch.

Ingredients

  • 400 grams of chicken (boneless breast or thigh)
  • 1 fresh pineapple
  • 2 bell peppers (preferably of different colors for a more vibrant presentation)
  • 1 red onion
  • A few leaves of fresh basil (for the Italian touch)
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
  • 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped (optional)

For the marinade:

  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons of honey
  • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
  • 1 sprig of fresh rosemary (or a teaspoon of dried rosemary)
  • Chili powder or chopped chili pepper to taste (according to preference)

Preparation

  1. Start by cutting the chicken into uniform cubes so they cook evenly.
  2. Peel the pineapple and cut it into pieces similar in size to the chicken cubes.
  3. Wash the bell peppers, remove the seeds and white parts, and cut them into pieces as well.
  4. Slice the red onion into wedges that are not too thin.
  5. Prepare the marinade by mixing the lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, rosemary, and, if you like a bit of heat, add the chili or chili pepper in a bowl.
  6. Place the chicken cubes in the marinade and let them rest for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. For a more intense flavor, you can marinate them for a couple of hours.
  7. Thread onto wooden or metal skewers, alternating marinated chicken pieces, pineapple, bell peppers, and onion. Remember to soak wooden skewers in water before using them to prevent burning during cooking.
  8. Heat a grill or pan over medium-high heat and grease with a little olive oil.
  9. Cook the skewers, turning frequently, until the chicken is golden and fully cooked (about 10-15 minutes depending on the size of the cubes).
  10. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and torn fresh basil leaves.
  11. Serve the skewers hot with a drizzle of oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar for an Italian touch and flavor.

Fun Fact

Marinating with pineapple is an excellent method to make chicken meat particularly tender and juicy, as it contains enzymes that help break down the proteins in the meat. Additionally, pineapple adds a sweet and tropical flavor that perfectly balances the umami of soy sauce and the freshness of lemon.