A sun-kissed Mediterranean dish that brings together juicy grilled chicken, bright citrus, fragrant herbs, and lightly caramelized pineapple. Perfect for summer dinners, family gatherings, or when you want something bold, fresh, and unforgettable.

🫒 Why This Recipe Works (Mediterranean Style)

  • Uses olive oil, garlic, citrus, herbs, and paprika
  • Balanced flavors: savory, sweet, tangy, and smoky
  • Grilled cooking method keeps it light and healthy
  • Fresh herbs add aroma and color without heaviness

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4–5)

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 1 kg (2.2 lbs) boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into thick strips
  • 5 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1½ tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1½ tsp sea salt
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp honey (for balance)
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, mild heat)

For the Mediterranean Glaze

  • 4 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses or balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • Juice of ½ lime

For Grilling & Garnish

  • Wooden or metal skewers
  • 1 fresh pineapple, sliced thick
  • Lime wedges
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped
  • Olive oil for brushing

⏳ Marination (Key to Flavor)

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients.
  2. Add chicken and massage well so every piece is coated.
  3. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for deep Mediterranean flavor.

🔥 Prepare the Glaze

  1. Add all glaze ingredients to a small saucepan.
  2. Simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring until slightly thick and glossy.
  3. Remove from heat and set aside.

🍍 Prepare the Pineapple

  • Brush pineapple slices lightly with olive oil.
  • Keep aside for grilling – they will caramelize beautifully and add sweetness.

🍢 Skewering

  • Thread marinated chicken onto skewers (not too tight).
  • If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes first.

🔥 Grilling Instructions

Outdoor Grill

  1. Preheat grill to medium-high.
  2. Grill chicken skewers for 4–5 minutes per side.
  3. Brush generously with glaze during the last few minutes.
  4. Grill pineapple slices until golden and lightly charred.

Indoor Grill / Pan

  • Use a heavy grill pan.
  • Cook skewers over medium heat, turning often.
  • Brush glaze near the end to avoid burning.

🌿 Final Touch

  • Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs over the skewers.
  • Serve with lime wedges for extra freshness.
  • Add grilled pineapple on the side or on top.

🍽 Serving Suggestions (Mediterranean Pairings)

  • Warm pita bread or flatbread
  • Greek salad (tomato, cucumber, olives, feta)
  • Tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce
  • Lemon rice or herbed couscous

💡 Chef Tips

  • Chicken thighs stay juicier, but breasts work great if not overcooked.
  • Don’t glaze too early—honey can burn.
  • Fresh herbs added at the end keep the flavor bright.

⭐ Result

Juicy, smoky chicken with sticky citrus glaze, fresh herbs, and sweet pineapple—a true Mediterranean grill masterpiece.

If you want:

  • 🔥 a spicy version
  • 🫒 a Greek-style variation
  • 🍗 oven-baked method
  • 🥗 a complete Mediterranean menu