Jerk Turkey Skewers with Pineapple Glaze
CaribbeanAppetizer

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

These Jerk Turkey Skewers deliver the bold, spicy flavors of Caribbean cuisine in a perfectly portioned appetizer. Tender turkey breast is marinated in a vibrant blend of allspice, thyme, scotch bonnet heat, and aromatic ginger, then threaded onto skewers with fresh pineapple chunks. The natural sweetness of pineapple balances the fiery jerk spices while caramelizing beautifully on the grill. Each skewer is brushed with a glossy pineapple glaze that adds a sticky-sweet finish to the smoky char. This recipe celebrates traditional Caribbean cooking methods while offering a lighter alternative to pork or chicken. Perfect for outdoor gatherings, game day spreads, or any occasion where you want to transport your guests to the tropics. The preparation is straightforward, but the flavors are complex and deeply satisfying, making these skewers a memorable addition to your appetizer repertoire.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. Cut turkey breast into 1.5-inch cubes. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, thyme, allspice, cumin, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt to create the jerk marinade. Add turkey cubes and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

  2. Cut fresh pineapple into 1-inch chunks, removing the core. If using canned pineapple, drain well and pat dry with paper towels. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.

  3. For the glaze, combine 1/2 cup pineapple juice with 2 tablespoons honey and 1 tablespoon lime juice in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until reduced by half and slightly thickened. Set aside.

  4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F). Thread marinated turkey cubes onto skewers, alternating with pineapple chunks. Leave small spaces between pieces for even cooking.

  5. Oil the grill grates lightly. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to ensure even browning on all sides. Turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

  6. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush skewers generously with the pineapple glaze, allowing it to caramelize slightly. Remove from grill and let rest for 3 minutes.

  7. Arrange skewers on a serving platter, garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Serve immediately while hot.

Jerk Turkey Skewers with Pineapple Glaze

4.4 (56)

Juicy marinated turkey chunks threaded with sweet pineapple, grilled to perfection with authentic Caribbean jerk seasonings and finished with a tropical glaze. A crowd-pleasing starter that brings island heat to any gathering.

medium
40 min
8 servings

Ingredients

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Main

  • 680 grams turkey-breast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
  • 2 cups pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks

Marinade

  • 3 tablespoons olive-oil
  • 2 pieces lime, juiced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons ginger, freshly grated
  • 2 teaspoons thyme, dried
  • 1 teaspoons cumin, ground
  • 1 teaspoons cayenne
  • 1 teaspoons black-pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoons salt

Glaze

  • 2 tablespoons honey

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped (optional)

Chef Tips

expert advice
For authentic Caribbean flavor, adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference - traditional jerk seasoning is quite spicy.
If you cannot find fresh scotch bonnet peppers, cayenne provides similar heat with less complexity.
The marinade time is crucial for tender, flavorful turkey; overnight marination yields the best results.
You can substitute chicken thighs for turkey if preferred, adjusting cooking time as needed.
For indoor cooking, use a grill pan over high heat or broil in the oven 6 inches from the heat source.
Fresh pineapple works best for its firm texture and natural sugars that caramelize beautifully, but canned pineapple chunks (well-drained) are an acceptable substitute.
For meal prep, marinate the turkey up to 24 hours in advance and assemble skewers the morning of your event.
These skewers pair wonderfully with a cooling yogurt-based dip or mango salsa to balance the heat.
Consider serving with coconut rice or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Jerk Turkey Skewers with Pineapple Glaze | Cuisinao