BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe
If you’re looking for the kind of summertime meal that instantly transports you to backyard bliss, the BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe is an absolute must-try! Imagine tender chunks of juicy chicken, sweet bursts of caramelized pineapple, and a rainbow of crisp veggies all coated in a smoky, tangy glaze. These kabobs are bursting with vibrant flavors, gorgeous colors, and a crowd-pleasing spirit that turns any meal into a mini celebration. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner on a weeknight or firing up the barbecue for a weekend cookout, this BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe brings together everything you love about great grilling—fun, freshness, and finger-licking deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe is its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role, bringing a pop of flavor, a hint of texture, or a splash of color that makes these kabobs impossible to resist.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and soak up the marinade beautifully, staying juicy even after grilling.
- Fresh pineapple chunks: Sweet, tangy, and perfect for caramelizing on the grill—fresh is best, but drained canned pineapple works in a pinch.
- Red bell pepper: Adds a vibrant color and a slightly sweet crunch between each bite of chicken.
- Green bell pepper: Offers an earthy, savory contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple.
- Red onion: Brings sharpness and a subtle sweetness once it caramelizes on the grill.
- Barbecue sauce: The heart of the marinade and glaze, giving the kabobs their smoky, sticky magic.
- Soy sauce: Enhances the depth of flavor and brings a savory, umami element to the marinade.
- Olive oil: Helps everything blend smoothly and prevents the chicken from sticking to the grill.
- Garlic powder: Lends subtle warmth and amplifies the savory notes in the marinade.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses a gentle smokiness that pairs perfectly with the grill and the sweet pineapple.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing out the best in every single ingredient—taste as you go!
- Skewers: Go for metal if you have them, or soak wooden skewers to prevent burning on the grill.
How to Make BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t skip this step: soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This crucial bit of prep will keep your skewers from burning and crumbling on the grill, making the kabobs easy to handle and serve. Metal skewers? Lucky you—they’re ready to go!
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a big mixing bowl, whisk together your barbecue sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This blend is where all the flavor magic happens! Stir until everything is silky and well combined, then get ready to marinate.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing well so each bit gets coated in that smoky-sweet sauce. Pop a lid or plastic wrap on the bowl and set it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, letting it marinate for up to 4 hours will infuse even more flavor.
Step 4: Build the Kabobs
Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time for the fun part—thread the chicken, pineapple, red and green bell peppers, and onion onto the skewers. Alternate each ingredient for a festive look and delicious variety in every bite. Don’t overcrowd the pieces, so the heat can work its magic all the way around.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the kabobs on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning every few minutes and brushing with extra barbecue sauce. You’re aiming for gorgeous grill marks and juicy chicken—test doneness by checking that the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are slightly charred.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Slide the finished kabobs off the grill and let them rest a minute or two. Serve them hot with your favorite sides, and enjoy every bite of sweet, savory, and smoky flavor. This BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe is pure summer happiness on a stick!
How to Serve BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle your kabobs with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and a fresh herbal finish. A squeeze of lime over the top gives an extra zippy brightness that wakes up all the flavors.
Side Dishes
These kabobs pair beautifully with a scoop of fluffy rice, a big green salad, or a platter of grilled vegetables—anything that soaks up the saucy goodness and balances the sweet and savory notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve each kabob over a bed of coconut rice or pineapple salsa. If you’re feeding a crowd, stand your kabobs up in a pineapple “boat” for a dramatic and fun centerpiece. They also look fantastic served right on the grill pan for that rustic, straight-from-the-fire appeal!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After everyone’s had their fill, any leftover BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently remove the remaining kabob pieces from the skewers for easier storing, and be sure to include a little extra sauce to keep everything moist.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked kabob pieces (off the skewers) in a zipped freezer bag for up to two months. They’re best used in salads, wraps, or tossed into grain bowls once thawed—though the veggies may get a bit softer after freezing and reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave the kabob pieces in short bursts, or warm them on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of extra barbecue sauce. This helps revive their flavor and keeps the chicken moist. Avoid overcooking during reheating so the chicken doesn’t dry out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are just as delicious and offer a juicier, slightly richer texture. Just cut them into similar sized cubes and follow the rest of the BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe exactly as written.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No problem at all—you can make these kabobs on a grill pan right on your stovetop or even roast them in the oven at 425°F, turning halfway through for the best results. You’ll still get amazing flavor from the marinade and caramelized edges.
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Yes! Just use gluten-free barbecue sauce and soy sauce, and your BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe will be naturally gluten-free—perfect for sharing with everyone at the table.
Can I prepare the kabobs ahead of time?
Definitely. You can marinate the chicken and even assemble the kabobs in advance—just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This makes entertaining or weeknight cooking super stress-free!
What other veggies can I use?
Feel free to get creative! Zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes are all fabulous choices and work perfectly with the flavors in this BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t made these BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe yet, you’re in for a treat. They’re vibrant, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Fire up the grill, gather your friends, and make your next meal one to remember!
Print
BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe
- Total Time: 32 minutes + marinating time
- Yield: 6 kabobs 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and colorful bell peppers, all grilled to perfection. The marinade adds a smoky and tangy flavor that makes these kabobs irresistibly delicious. Ideal for summer cookouts or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Kabobs:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes)
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper (cut into chunks)
- 1 green bell pepper (cut into chunks)
- 1 red onion (cut into chunks)
- skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Whisk together barbecue sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken cubes, coat well, cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high. Thread marinated chicken, pineapple, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers.
- Grill the Kabobs: Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning and basting with extra barbecue sauce until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with sides like rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.
Notes
- You can use canned pineapple chunks if fresh isn’t available, but make sure to drain them well.
- Try adding zucchini or mushrooms to the kabobs for extra veggies.
- These kabobs are great for summer cookouts or quick weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kabob
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 470 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
