Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers

Name: Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cubed; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 1-2 jalapenos, diced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Highlighted under: Taste the World Recipes

I absolutely love making Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers for gatherings! The combination of sweet pineapple and spicy jalapenos wrapped around juicy chicken creates a flavor explosion that is hard to resist. I often serve them as an appetizer, and they never fail to impress my guests. Not only are they delicious, but they are also easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can have these delightful bites ready for any occasion in no time!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-16T14:52:28.906Z

When I first combined pineapple and jalapeno in my chicken poppers, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors worked together. The sweetness of the pineapple balances the heat from the jalapenos, resulting in a perfect harmony that keeps everyone coming back for more. I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes to really enhance the flavor.

One tip I've learned is to use fresh jalapenos for a brighter and more vibrant taste. If you prefer a milder heat, you can remove the seeds and membranes before adding them to your chicken. These poppers are always a hit at parties, and I love watching friends enjoy them!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and spicy flavor combination that tantalizes the taste buds
Perfect for game day or casual get-togethers
Quick to prepare and fun to make with friends

      

Getting the Perfect Balance of Flavors

The harmony of sweet pineapple with spicy jalapenos is at the heart of this recipe. When selecting pineapples, look for ones that are ripe but not overly soft; a good pineapple should have a pleasant aroma at the stem end. Freshness is crucial, as it enhances the sweetness and juiciness that complements the chicken perfectly. Meanwhile, choose jalapenos based on your spice tolerance; you can remove the seeds and veins for a milder flavor, or keep them in for an extra kick.

The marinade plays a vital role in creating depth of flavor. The soy sauce imparts umami, which can elevate the overall taste of the dish. Honey not only adds sweetness but also helps caramelize the chicken as it grills, contributing to a lovely char. Make sure you mix the marinade thoroughly to ensure every piece of chicken is well-coated. A little patience in marination goes a long way—letting it sit for an hour or more can deepen the flavor even further.

Grilling Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

Grilling is our cooking method of choice for these poppers, as it brings out a smoky flavor that is simply irresistible. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F to 450°F) before placing the skewers on. It's essential to keep an eye on the chicken; overcooking can dry it out. Look for a golden-brown color and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption. Use tongs to turn the skewers gently to avoid tearing the chicken pieces.

Using soaked wooden skewers is advisable to prevent burning, but you can also opt for metal skewers for a more reusable option. If grilling isn’t possible, consider broiling these poppers in your oven on high heat for approximately 10-12 minutes, rotating halfway through. This method also achieves a charred exterior while keeping the chicken juicy and tender. Just place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to start making your Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cubed
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
1-2 jalapenos, diced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Now that all your ingredients are ready, let’s move on to the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create delicious Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken, diced pineapple, jalapenos, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Skewers

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, make sure they have been soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Assemble the Poppers

Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple, and jalapenos onto the skewers. Alternate between the ingredients for an even flavor distribution.

Grill the Poppers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy your flavorful Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding crushed garlic or ginger to the marinade. You can also serve these poppers with a creamy dipping sauce to balance the spice.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers, store the chicken poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the chicken rubbery. A quick reheat in a skillet can also work wonders, helping retain that desirable grilled texture.

For meal prep, the ingredients can be assembled and marinated a day in advance, saving you precious time when entertaining. Just keep the skewers separated and coated in the marinade to avoid sticking. It’s a great way to ensure that your flavors have time to meld together, enhancing the overall taste even further.

Serving Suggestions

These Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers make a fabulous appetizer on their own, but they can also shine as part of a larger spread. Consider pairing them with a zesty dipping sauce like a cilantro-lime crema or a tangy barbecue sauce to complement the flavors. You can also create a vibrant platter with sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, and a few sprigs of parsley for added color and freshness.

For a more substantial meal, serve these poppers over a bed of coconut rice, which beautifully balances the sweet and spicy profiles. Alternatively, adding them to a fresh salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette can elevate your meal. Don’t shy away from experimenting with different toppings like sesame seeds or chopped green onions for added texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day ahead and assemble the skewers when you're ready to grill.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

For a vegetarian option, you can use firm tofu or vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The spice level depends on the jalapenos used. For milder poppers, remove the seeds and membranes.

→ Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Absolutely! You can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.