Honey-Chipotle Pineapple Lil’ Smokies Skewers are one of those recipes I’m genuinely excited—and honestly grateful—to share with you. Thank you for being here and for loving fun, flavor-packed appetizers as much as I do. These skewers are sweet, smoky, sticky, and just the right amount of spicy, and every single time I make them, people hover around the tray asking, “What is in this sauce?!”
Honey-Chipotle Pineapple Lil’ Smokies Skewers: Sweet Heat Perfection
These Honey-Chipotle Pineapple Lil’ Smokies Skewers are the ultimate sweet-heat appetizer. Juicy lil’ smokies and caramelized pineapple are brushed with a sticky honey-chipotle glaze and baked or grilled until glossy and irresistible. They’re bold, balanced, and anything but boring!!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons these skewers disappear fast:
- Sweet, smoky, and spicy flavor combo
- Perfect for parties, holidays, and game day
- Easy to prep ahead
- Minimal ingredients with big flavor
- Oven or grill-friendly
I promised you versatile—and here’s proof!
What Do Honey-Chipotle Pineapple Lil’ Smokies Skewers Taste Like?
Every bite is a flavor bomb. The lil’ smokies are savory and smoky, the pineapple is juicy and caramelized, and the honey-chipotle sauce brings everything together with sticky sweetness and a slow-building heat. The smell when these are baking (or grilling!) is incredible!!
Benefits of This Recipe
Beyond being downright delicious, these skewers are also:
- Crowd-approved: Kids love the sweetness, adults love the heat
- Quick to assemble: Simple threading and brushing
- Customizable: Adjust spice level easily
- Perfect portions: Easy finger food
Ingredients for Honey-Chipotle Pineapple Lil’ Smokies Skewers
Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible skewers:
- 14 oz lil’ smokies sausages
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo, minced
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
- 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Optional garnish: chopped cilantro or green onions
Tools You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here:
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Small saucepan
- Basting brush
- Baking sheet or grill
- Parchment paper or foil (if baking)
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
Make these skewers your own:
- Pineapple: Canned works in a pinch (drain well)
- Heat level: Use less chipotle for mild or add extra for spicy
- Sweetener: Swap honey for maple syrup
- Smokies: Beef, pork, turkey, or chicken all work
- Extra flavor: Add a splash of soy sauce or lime juice
How to Make Honey-Chipotle Pineapple Lil’ Smokies Skewers Step by Step
Step 1: Make the Sauce
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, BBQ sauce, melted butter, and apple cider vinegar. Stir and simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Assemble the Skewers
Thread lil’ smokies and pineapple chunks onto skewers, alternating pieces for color and flavor.
Step 3: Brush with Sauce
Place skewers on a lined baking sheet (or grill tray) and generously brush with the honey-chipotle sauce.
Step 4: Cook
Oven method: Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 15–18 minutes, turning once and brushing with more sauce.
Grill method: Grill over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, turning frequently and basting until caramelized.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Brush with remaining sauce, garnish if desired, and serve warm.
What to Serve with Honey-Chipotle Pineapple Lil’ Smokies Skewers
These skewers are perfect alongside:
- Creamy coleslaw
- Tortilla chips and guacamole
- Rice or coconut rice
- Fresh fruit platter
- Other appetizers for a party spread
Tips for the Best Honey-Chipotle Pineapple Lil’ Smokies Skewers
- Soak wooden skewers for 20 minutes to prevent burning
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—space helps caramelization
- Brush sauce in layers for extra stickiness
- Keep warm in a low oven or slow cooker for parties
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or in a skillet
- Make-ahead: Assemble skewers and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking
General Recipe Information
These Honey-Chipotle Pineapple Lil’ Smokies Skewers are perfect for game day, holiday parties, backyard BBQs, and potlucks. They’re bold, fun, and always one of the first appetizers gone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Honey-Chipotle Pineapple Lil’ Smokies Skewers
Are these very spicy?
They’re mildly spicy with a smoky heat. Reduce chipotle for a milder version.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble ahead and bake or grill just before serving.
Can I cook these in the air fryer?
Absolutely. Cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, turning once.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes—this recipe scales perfectly for larger gatherings.
Conclusion
These Honey-Chipotle Pineapple Lil’ Smokies Skewers are sweet, smoky, sticky, and packed with bold flavor. They’re easy to make, fun to serve, and guaranteed to be a hit wherever they go. If you’re looking for an appetizer that gets people talking, this is it.