Weight Watchers Chicken Pineapple Kabobs offer a delightful combination of savory chicken and sweet pineapple, all grilled to perfection. This dish is not only light and healthy but also packed with flavor, making it an excellent choice for those following the Weight Watchers program or anyone looking for a nutritious meal. The kabobs are easy to prepare and cook, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients Overview
Chicken Breast
- Why This Ingredient? Chicken breast is a lean protein source, perfect for a low-calorie diet, and it absorbs the marinade flavors beautifully.
- Health Benefits: High in protein and low in fat, chicken breast helps in muscle maintenance and overall weight management.
Pineapple
- Why This Ingredient? Pineapple adds a tropical sweetness to the kabobs, enhancing the overall flavor profile and providing moisture.
- Health Benefits: Pineapple is rich in vitamins C and A, fiber, and enzymes like bromelain, which can aid in digestion and reduce inflammation.
Bell Peppers
- Why This Ingredient? Bell peppers add crunch and color to the kabobs, making them more visually appealing and texturally varied.
- Health Benefits: High in vitamins C and A, bell peppers can help boost immunity and maintain healthy skin.
Soy Sauce and Honey
- Why These Ingredients? Soy sauce and honey form the base of the marinade, giving the kabobs a savory-sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
- Health Benefits: Soy sauce provides antioxidants and honey offers antibacterial properties, although both should be used in moderation due to sodium and sugar content.
Substitutions
For those with specific dietary preferences or restrictions, consider these alternatives:
- Chicken Breast: Tofu or shrimp can be used as a substitute for a vegetarian option or different protein choice.
- Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free alternatives to soy sauce.
- Honey: Agave syrup can be used as a vegan substitute for honey.
Recipe
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients with Measurements
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 each red and green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, and ginger. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
- Prepare Kabobs: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, and bell pepper pieces alternately onto skewers.
- Grill the Kabobs: Place the kabobs on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and vegetables are slightly charred.
- Serve: Remove from grill and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Each serving approximately contains:
- Calories: 250
- Carbs: 18g
- Fats: 6g
- Protein: 27g
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Chicken Pineapple Kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the grill or in the microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Weight Watchers Chicken Pineapple Kabobs are a fantastic meal option for anyone looking for something quick, healthy, and delicious. They are perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests, offering a meal that is as nutritious as it is flavorful.
FAQ
- Can I make these kabobs without a grill? Yes, you can cook the kabobs under the broiler in your oven, turning occasionally until cooked through.
- What sides go well with these kabobs? Serve with a side of quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 3 Tbspsoy sauce
- 3 Tbspbrown sugar
- 1 Tbspsesame oil
- 1/4 tspground ginger
- 1 tspgarlic powder
- 8 boneless chicken breast, cut into 2″ pieces
- 1 20 oz can(s)pineapple chunks, drained
- 1/2 cyour favorite bbq sauce (I love Sunset Gourmet’s sweet & spicy brown sugar bourbon sauce)
Instructions
1In a shallow glass dish, mix the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic powder. Stir the chicken pieces and pineapple into the marinade until well coated. Cover, and marinate in the refrigerator at least 2 hours.
2Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
3Lightly oil the grill grate. Thread chicken and pineapple alternately onto skewers. Grill 15 to 20 minutes, turning occasionally, basting with bbq sauce or until chicken juices run clear.