These heart healthy chicken and pineapple kebabs are a gluten-free, diabetic-friendly dish that’s bursting with fiery-sweet flavors. By using lean chicken breast, fresh pineapple, and vibrant vegetables marinated in a zesty lime and honey sauce, you get a protein-packed meal that fits perfectly into a low-sodium lifestyle.
At just 184 calories and 45mg of sodium per serving, this is a delicious grilled chicken recipe idea for anyone managing their cardiovascular health. The combination of caramelized fruit and charred chicken offers a "Hawaiian-style" flair without the added sugars or salts found in bottled sauces.
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This recipe focuses on lean protein and naturally sweet ingredients to provide a satisfying, nutrient-dense meal without excessive sodium or saturated fat. By utilizing fresh fruit and citrus as the primary flavor drivers, we eliminate the need for high-salt marinades.
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Yes! Fresh pineapple is heart-healthy as it is low in sodium, fat-free, and contains fiber and vitamin C. However, patients on specific blood thinners or with potassium restrictions should consult their doctor.
On a medium-high grill, these typically take about 10 minutes. Ensure the chicken is cut into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Chicken kebabs are excellent for heart health when made with lean breast meat and a low-sodium marinade. They are high in protein and usually feature plenty of heart-healthy vegetables.
Fresh pineapple is highly recommended for grilling as it holds its shape better on the skewer and contains no added syrups or sugars.
Elevate your healthy meal prep with these top-rated grilled chicken recipes designed to support a heart-healthy lifestyle without sacrificing bold, international flavors.
If you enjoyed these skewers, you’ll love exploring our other nutrient-dense kebab recipes that feature lean proteins and vibrant, heart-healthy marinades.
Fresh pineapple is more than just a sweet treat; it is a nutritional powerhouse. It contains bromelain, an enzyme that can aid digestion and help reduce inflammation, which is beneficial for heart health. Pineapple is also an excellent source of manganese—essential for bone health—and Vitamin C, which protects cells from oxidative stress. In this recipe, the fruit’s natural acidity also acts as a natural tenderizer for the chicken.
Recipe yields 4 servings
To prepare marinade, in a bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients.
In a shallow glass dish, cover the chicken with the marinade. Marinate for at least 1 hour, covered and chilled.
Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
On presoaked skewers, alternate pineapple, chicken, tomato, green pepper and red onion. Repeat if skewer is long enough. Season with black pepper, if desired. Grill kebabs until chicken is cooked through, turning as needed, about 10 minutes.
For a complete heart-healthy meal, serve these kabobs over a bed of cilantro-lime quinoa or ginger brown rice to soak up the extra marinade. A crisp, leafy green salad with a light vinaigrette or a side of Heart Healthy Grilled Corn on the Cob pairs beautifully with the charred flavors of the grill.
Swap chicken breast for extra-firm tofu cubes or large shrimp (adjust grilling time accordingly).
Use yellow or orange bell peppers for a sweeter profile, or add zucchini rounds for extra volume.
If you prefer a milder "Hawaiian" flavor, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
Fresh orange juice can be used in place of lime for a softer, citrusy sweetness.
Keep the grill warm for even more deliciously healthy kebab recipes you can enjoy throughout the year! Some of our favorite chicken kebab recipes include Sweet and Sour Chicken Kebabs and Grilled Chicken Kebabs. Not in the mood for chicken? Try making our savory Pork Kebabs or our fresh Grilled Swordfish Kebabs. These delicious dishes are meticulously prepared with nutritious ingredients, promising to gratify your palate.