There’s something about grilled shrimp and pineapple that just makes a summer evening feel like a little vacation. I mean, who needs a plane ticket when you’ve got sweet, juicy pineapple caramelizing over the fire and shrimp soaking up a spicy chili glaze like it’s their one purpose in life? This recipe is part of my go-to list when I need something impressive without sweating over it. It’s a little sweet, a little spicy, and a lot easy. Think shrimp appetizer recipes meet chicken and pineapple recipes—but with attitude. You’ll get that sweet and spicy chili recipe kind of kick, and if you happen to have a spicy pineapple margarita recipe on standby, you’ve basically won dinner. These skewers also live their best life at parties. People love the combo of flavors. You could even swap in chicken if shrimp’s not your thing, and it still works. We’re covering pineapple recipes, spicy recipes, and everything good in between. Grab those skewers—we’re making the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

1) Key Takeaways
2) Easy Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers Recipe
3) Ingredients for Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers
4) How to Make Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers
5) Tips for Making Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers
6) Making Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers Ahead of Time
7) Storing Leftover Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers
8) Try these appetizer recipes next!
9) Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers Recipe
10) Nutrition

1) Key Takeaways

Pineapple and shrimp are the stars here, delivering tropical sweet and spicy flavor fast.
Perfect for grilling season, these skewers double as party food or a light dinner.
Easy prep, quick cook time, and a marinade you’ll want to put on everything.
Use fresh pineapple and quality shrimp for best flavor and texture.

2) Easy Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers Recipe

Let’s not pretend we’re planning a five-course meal every night. When I’m short on time but still want something fresh and flavorful, this is the one I grab. These shrimp skewers hit all the high points of a great appetizer recipe, and let’s be honest, they might just steal the show at your next backyard hangout.

The pineapple caramelizes a little on the grill and gets those beautiful charred edges that smell like summer. Meanwhile, the shrimp take on that chili marinade and turn downright addictive. I like to brush extra sauce on while they’re grilling so things stay juicy and loaded with flavor.

Now, I’ve used this same sweet chili glaze on other things too — think grilled chicken or tofu — and it works every time. These skewers are flexible. Want to turn them into a full meal? Toss them on some rice or into a bowl with greens. This recipe has earned a regular spot in our rotation, and it’s one of those appetizer recipes that people actually ask for the recipe.

3) Ingredients for Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers

Raw Shrimp: Go for large shrimp, peeled and deveined. They grill quickly and absorb the marinade beautifully. If you’re buying frozen, let them thaw first and pat them dry.

Pineapple Chunks: Fresh is best here. The grill gives pineapple that golden, smoky edge and it’s what really sets this recipe apart from typical shrimp appetizer recipes.

Red Bell Pepper: Adds color and crunch. I chop them into roughly one-inch squares so they cook evenly alongside the shrimp and pineapple.

Sweet Chili Sauce: This is our glaze’s base. It’s mild, a little tangy, and has just the right touch of heat.

Sriracha: A tablespoon brings just enough fire. You can always use less if you’re not chasing heat.

Soy Sauce: For saltiness and umami. I use regular soy sauce, but low sodium works too.

Honey: The touch of honey helps everything caramelize on the grill. It’s that sticky-sweet balance against the chili that we’re going for.

Lime Juice: A little brightness helps cut through the sweet and spicy. It also helps the shrimp stay tender as they grill.

Salt and Pepper: Just a pinch of each rounds things out. I season lightly before skewering and again while brushing on the glaze.

Skewers: If you’re using wooden ones, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to keep them from burning.

4) How to Make Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers

Step 1. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them now. This avoids the whole burnt-stick situation later. Metal skewers don’t need soaking, obviously.

Step 2. In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Give it a little taste. Want more spice? Add more sriracha.

Step 3. Thread the shrimp, pineapple chunks, and red pepper pieces onto your skewers. I try to alternate so each bite has that sweet-spicy balance.

Step 4. Brush the glaze all over the skewers, getting into every nook. Don’t be shy here — they’ll need a generous coat.

Step 5. Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, lay down the skewers and cook about 2 to 3 minutes per side.

Step 6. As they cook, brush on more sauce. Shrimp should turn pink and opaque, and everything should get a little char around the edges.

Step 7. Remove from the grill and serve warm. If you’ve got leftover glaze, you can drizzle a little more over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.

5) Tips for Making Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers

If you’re new to grilling shrimp, here’s the thing: they cook fast. Walk away for five minutes and you’ll come back to rubber. Keep an eye on them and flip quickly.

Use fresh pineapple. The canned stuff won’t give you the same texture, and it tends to fall apart under heat. Plus, fresh pineapple just tastes better.

If you’re prepping a batch for a crowd, assemble everything first and grill in rounds. Or better yet, set up a little assembly line — it makes the work fun and keeps the appetizer recipes flowing.

6) Making Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers Ahead of Time

You can totally prep these skewers ahead of time. I like to thread them in the morning and keep them in the fridge on a sheet pan until I’m ready to grill. Just wrap them loosely with plastic wrap.

The glaze can be made even earlier. I’ve kept it in a jar in the fridge for two days and it still tasted fresh. Just give it a stir before using.

If you’re planning these for a party, they’re great hot or at room temperature. I’ve even brought them to a picnic once — no complaints, just empty sticks.

7) Storing Leftover Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Slide the shrimp and fruit off the skewers and store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for about three days.

To reheat, I use a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch, but you might lose that nice grilled texture.

I’ve even tossed the leftovers onto a salad for lunch the next day. That sweet and spicy kick still holds up beautifully, and it gives the greens a welcome punch.

8) Try these appetizer recipes next!

9) Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers Recipe