BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and savory seasonings grilled to perfection. This tropical twist on a classic barbecue favorite brings a delicious burst of flavor to your backyard gatherings, summer parties, or quick weeknight dinners. With tender marinated chicken and caramelized pineapple, every bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness. Whether you’re a beginner griller or an experienced cook, this BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe is guaranteed to impress your family and friends.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Imagine the vibrant colors of red bell peppers, sweet onions, and golden pineapple chunks threaded on skewers alongside perfectly cooked chicken. The aroma alone is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. By the time these kabobs hit your plate, they’ll be juicy, flavorful, and ready to pair with your favorite sides, such as rice, salad, or grilled veggies.
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe
Juicy and Flavorful: Chicken absorbs the sweet-savory marinade for an explosion of taste.
Quick & Easy Prep: Only 15 minutes to assemble; grill for 10 minutes.
Tropical Twist: Pineapple adds natural sweetness and tenderizes the chicken.
Healthy & Protein-Rich: Lean chicken breasts provide essential nutrients.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the colorful skewers.
Perfect for Summer BBQs: Ideal for backyard parties or casual dinners.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap vegetables or fruit for variety.
Budget-Friendly: Affordable, accessible ingredients make it easy on your wallet.
Ingredients
Marinade:
⅔ cup barbecue sauce
⅔ cup teriyaki sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
Main Ingredients:
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
1 sweet onion, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
2 tablespoons canola oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Ingredient Tips:
Chicken: Choose fresh, firm chicken breasts for best texture.
Pineapple: Use ripe pineapple for natural sweetness; canned pineapple can work but drain well.
Marinade: Reserving some marinade for basting ensures extra caramelized flavor on the grill.
Vegetables: Red bell peppers and onions add sweetness and color contrast; feel free to swap with zucchini or cherry tomatoes.
How to Make BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Mix well and reserve ½ cup for basting. The combination of BBQ and teriyaki creates a savory-sweet profile that penetrates the chicken while grilling.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken chunks in a Ziploc bag or airtight container. Pour in the remaining marinade, seal, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Turn occasionally to ensure even flavor absorption. Proper marination tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
3. Assemble the Kabobs
Alternate chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, and onion pieces on skewers. Brush lightly with canola oil and season with salt and pepper. This prevents sticking and enhances the grilled aroma.
4. Grill the Kabobs
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill skewers for 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. During the last 1–2 minutes, brush with reserved marinade for a caramelized finish.
5. Serve
Remove from grill and serve immediately. Pair with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables. The sweet pineapple and smoky chicken make a perfect combination that’s visually stunning and full of flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Kabobs
H3: How long should chicken marinate for the best flavor?
Marinate chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal. Longer marination allows the enzymes in pineapple to tenderize the meat while infusing bold flavors.
H3: Can I use wooden skewers?
Yes! Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Metal skewers are also excellent and conduct heat, cooking chicken evenly.
H3: How do I prevent chicken from drying out?
Brush kabobs with marinade during grilling and cook over medium-high heat. Avoid overcooking; internal temp should be 165°F.
Best Ways to Serve
Serve with Coconut Rice or Garlic Mashed Potatoes for a tropical feast.
Pair with Summer Salad Bowls or Grilled Vegetables for a light, healthy option.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 280 kcal
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 550mg
Daily Values:
Protein: 56%
Carbs: 6%
Fat: 12%
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store cooked kabobs in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze raw skewers in marinade for up to 1 month; thaw before grilling.
Reheat: Warm in oven at 350°F for 5–10 minutes or on a stovetop skillet until heated through.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe indoors?
Yes! Use a grill pan or broiler. Turn skewers occasionally for even cooking.
Can I substitute chicken breasts with thighs?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs remain juicier and add richer flavor.
Is pineapple necessary for tenderizing?
Pineapple contains bromelain, which naturally tenderizes chicken while adding sweetness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, ensure your BBQ and teriyaki sauces are labeled gluten-free.
How do I avoid kabobs sticking to the grill?
Brush with oil, preheat grill, and turn kabobs carefully with tongs.
Recipe Variations
Tropical Twist: Add mango or papaya chunks for extra sweetness.
Spicy BBQ: Mix sriracha or chili flakes into the marinade.
Herbed Kabobs: Add fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with firm tofu or halloumi cheese.
Oven-Baked: Bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, then broil 2 minutes for caramelization.
Conclusion
Unlock the full tropical flavor of summer with this BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe. Juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and colorful vegetables create a feast for your eyes and taste buds. Try it at your next backyard BBQ and share your creations with friends on Instagram or Pinterest!