Name: Michigan Cherry-aki Grilled Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs ); 2 cups cherries (pitted and chopped ); 2 cloves of garlic (minced); Dash of red pepper flakes; ¾ cup Teriyaki Marinade with Pineapple Juice; Wooden Skewers; 1 Red Bell Pepper (cut into large pieces); ½ large white onion (quartered); 2 cups fresh pineapples chunks

Ready for a delicious new idea to make on the grill this Summer? These Michigan Cherry-aki Grilled Skewers use in season cherries, a tangy teriyaki marinade, and are loaded with fresh veggies and pineapple!

These Cherry Marinated Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers combines the smoky char of grilled chicken with a vibrant cherry teriyaki marinade, resulting in a delicious and visually stunning dish perfect for summer cookouts or a simple weeknight dinner. The cherry marinade adds a unique sweetness and fun twist on a classic bbq dish!

Why I love these Michigan Cherry-aki Grilled Chicken Skewers

Flavorful
Utilizes fresh cherries (or frozen)
Juicy and tender chicken
Great Summer dinner

I had tons of Michigan cherries that we get up near Traverse City, Michigan every Summer. My little one always wants them but then they sit in the fridge for a few weeks. So- I had to put them to use. I decided to whip up a cherry flavored marinade for these chicken skewers, and I loved it-and knew I had to share with you!

Cherry Chicken Skewers on white plate over rice.

Ingredients Needed for these Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

ingredients for cherry marinated chicken skewers on gray table.

🍒Chicken- I used boneless chicken breasts, but chicken thighs would work well, too.

🍒Cherries- Fresh or frozen cherries work.

🍒Teriyaki Marinade with Pineapple Juice– I just issued Kroger brand, but your favorite teriyaki marinade will work!

🍒Garlic– I love fresh garlic but if you don’t have any you can sprinkle some garlic powder in there, too.

🍒Fresh Pineapple– I had fresh pineapple which I recommend because it will grill nicely, just leave the chunks larger for the skewers.

🍒 Bell Pepper– I had a red bell pepper but orange or yellow works just fine.

🍒Onion– white, yellow, or Spanish onions works in this recipe.

🍒Red Pepper Flakes– This is optional, but I added some for a bit of heat!

How to Make these Grilled Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare chicken. Trim any unwanted parts and cut the chicken breasts into cubes.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken. In a large bowl or Zip-lock bag, combine the chicken, chopped cherries, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Add in the marinade. Give everything a stir, cover, and refrigerate for 2-3 hours (a minimum of 30 minutes).

cherry teriyaki skewers hows to make and grill.

Step 3: Make skewers. When you are ready to cook, start threading the meat, peppers, pineapple chunks, and onions onto the wooden skewers.

Step 4: Grill. Fire up your grill ( I used our Traeger Ranger) to a medium-high heat and cook for about 15 minutes total, flipping halfway until the chicken is cooked throughout.

Step 5: Serve. I enjoyed these chicken skewers over some white rice. But you can eat as is with sides of your choice or even over a salad.

Tips and Variations

Don’t overcook the chicken! Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Use other vegetables! Feel free to add other vegetables to the skewers such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes or yellow squash!
Make it spicy! Add more red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicier kick.
Bake the skewers! If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally.
Soak wooden skewers: This prevents them from burning on the grill.
Don’t overcrowd the grill: Grilling in batches ensures even cooking.
Vary the marinade: Experiment with different marinades to find your favorite flavor profile. Try teriyaki, honey-garlic, or spicy versions.

Like this grilling recipe? Make sure to check out my:

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