Name: BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs: Sweet, Savory Summer Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or low-sugar variants); 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (or soy sauce for a saltier kick); 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh preferred); 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors); 1 medium onion (preferably red); 1 tablespoon canola oil (for oiling the grill); to taste kosher salt; to taste black pepper

As I flipped open the grill lid on a sun-soaked afternoon, the sizzle of BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs filled the air, instantly transporting me to a backyard paradise. This easy recipe bursts with the sweet tang of juicy pineapple and the smoky richness of marinated chicken, making it the ultimate summer dish. What’s even better? These kabobs are not only simple to prepare but also a family-friendly crowd-pleaser that looks stunning on the plate. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a casual cookout or hosting a festive gathering, these vibrant skewers will be the highlight of any meal. Ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful fusion of flavors? Let’s get started!

Why BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs?

Flavor Explosion: These kabobs combine the sweetness of pineapple with savory marinated chicken for a taste that’s simply irresistible.

Easy Prep: Just marinate, skewer, and grill—minimal fuss for maximum flavor.

Colorful Presentation: Vibrant veggies add a beautiful array of colors, making your dish as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Family Friendly: Perfect for all ages, these kabobs are sure to please everyone at your picnic or cookout.

Versatile Options: Want to switch it up? You can easily swap chicken for shrimp or tofu!

If you’re looking for side dish ideas, consider pairing these kabobs with a refreshing cucumber salad or rice pilaf for a complete meal.

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Ingredients

For the Kabobs
• Chicken Breast – Use boneless, skinless chicken for the best tenderness and flavor.
• BBQ Sauce – This adds a sweet, smoky glaze; feel free to use homemade or low-sugar variants.
• Teriyaki Sauce – To enhance the marinades’ savory aspect; soy sauce is a great alternative for a saltier kick.
• Pineapple Chunks – Adds natural sweetness and juiciness; fresh pineapple is preferred for the best flavor.
• Bell Peppers – Choose a mix of colors for visual appeal; any variety can be substituted as desired.
• Onion – Sweetness and depth enhance the kabobs; opt for red onions for a milder taste.
• Canola Oil – Prevents sticking on the grill; olive oil serves as a wonderful alternative.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Season to taste for a perfectly seasoned dish.

Expert Tips
• Marinating your chicken overnight will provide deeper flavor penetration for your BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, combine BBQ sauce, teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Reserve half of this rich mixture for glazing later. Add bite-sized pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breast, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if you have the time, for deeper flavors that will enhance your BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs.

Step 2: Assemble Skewers
Once marinated, it’s time to assemble your kabobs! Start by threading the chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with vibrant pineapple chunks, bell pepper slices, and onion pieces for a colorful presentation. Leave a little space between each item to ensure even cooking. This beautiful arrangement not only looks appetizing but also brings out the delicious flavors in your BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs.

Step 3: Prepare Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat, aiming for a temperature of around 350°F to 400°F. Make sure the grates are clean, which will help prevent sticking. Lightly oil the grill grates with canola or olive oil, using a paper towel held with tongs. This crucial step ensures your kabobs will come off easily and be grilled to perfection, enhancing the overall BBQ experience.

Step 4: Grill Kabobs
Place your assembled kabobs on the preheated grill, making sure they are not overcrowded. Grill for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally to promote even browning and cooking. As the chicken turns golden brown and the vegetables soften, you’ll enjoy the delightful aroma of your BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs filling the air, signifying that they’re close to being done.

Step 5: Glaze Kabobs
In the last 1-2 minutes of grilling, brush the reserved marinade over the kabobs for a beautiful caramelized finish. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and a glossy appearance to your BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs. Keep a close eye during this final stage to prevent burning, as the sugars in the glaze can caramelize quickly.

Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once grilled to perfection, carefully remove the kabobs from the grill. Allow them to rest for about 5 minutes; this crucial step locks in the juices, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve your stunning BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs warm, ready to impress family and friends at your next summer gathering!

Make Ahead Options

These BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are perfect for meal prep, saving you time for those busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead, ensuring it absorbs all those delicious flavors; just cover and refrigerate the marinated chicken until you’re ready to assemble. For added convenience, you can prepare the skewers, complete with pineapple and veggies, and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply grill the kabobs for about 10 minutes, brushing on the reserved marinade in the last minute for that beautiful glaze. This method guarantees you’ll enjoy the same juicy, flavorful kabobs without the last-minute rush!

What to Serve with BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs?

Elevate your summer gathering by pairing these vibrant kabobs with delicious sides that enhance their sweet and savory profile.

Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette complements the kabobs’ sweetness with crispness and brightness.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs or spices creates a perfect contrast to the kabobs’ flavors, adding a comforting touch to the meal.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn adds smoky flavor and texture that beautifully harmonizes with the kabobs’ BBQ essence. Feel free to slather with herb butter for extra indulgence!
Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds a creamy texture and balances the sweetness of the pineapple, a classic summer side that everyone loves.
Potato Wedges: Crispy, seasoned potato wedges provide a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with the kabobs, perfect for soaking up those delightful BBQ flavors.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks like iced lemonade or sweet tea will quench your thirst while emphasizing the tropical vibes of the kabobs.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For the ultimate summer dessert, serve warm chocolate chip cookies; their melty sweetness is a fitting finish to your outdoor feast.

Expert Tips for BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Marinate Longer: For the most flavor, marinate your chicken overnight in the BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs marinade. This enhances the sweetness and savory depth.
Unified Heat: Maintain a consistent grill temperature of 350°F to 400°F to prevent uneven cooking. Overheated grills can lead to burnt kabobs while leaving the chicken undercooked.
Use Soaked Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to an hour beforehand to prevent burning and ensure they hold up on the grill.
Check for Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to check that chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring your BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are perfectly cooked.
Allow to Rest: Let kabobs rest for 5 minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute. This step is key for delivering moist and tender bites.

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs: Customization Ideas

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own, exploring different flavors and textures with every twist!

Shrimp or Tofu: Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a delightful protein twist that packs the same flavor punch. Both options grill beautifully and soak up marinades like a charm.
Veggie Medley: Replace bell peppers and onions with zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even mushrooms for a variety of tastes. The vibrant colors and textures will elevate your kabobs even further!
Sweet Heat: Add a touch of spice by incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into your marinade. This fiery element adds a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple.
Coconut Wagyu: For an indulgent twist, brush coconut milk over the kabobs just before grilling. The rich flavor complements the pineapple perfectly, creating a tropical getaway on a skewer.
Glazed Finish: Experiment with different glazes; instead of BBQ sauce, try a homemade sweet chili sauce or spicy mustard for an unexpected flavor dimension. Each sauce brings its own character to the kabobs.
Fruit Fusion: Consider adding other fruits like mango or peach alongside the pineapple for an additional layer of sweetness and a juicy bite that complements the grilled chicken wonderfully.
Satisfaction Overload: For a heartier option, serve your kabobs over a bed of fluffy quinoa or rice pilaf. Not only does this make for a lovely presentation, but it also rounds out the meal beautifully.

These BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are versatile and forgiving, making them a perfect fit for any gathering. If you’re looking for a salad that pairs nicely, consider trying a refreshing Strawberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Green Tea Vinaigrette for a vibrant and delicious complement!

How to Store and Freeze BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Fridge: Store leftover BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain their juicy flavor and prevents them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked marinated kabobs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Lay them flat to save space, ensuring they are well sealed.

Reheating: To reheat, grill kabobs on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them in the oven.

Leftover Ideas: Use leftover kabobs in salads, wraps, or as a delicious topping for rice bowls to enjoy the flavors in a new way!

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe pineapple for my kabobs?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh pineapple, look for one that’s slightly soft to the touch, with a sweet fragrance emanating from the base. Avoid pineapples with dark spots all over, as this indicates overripeness. The outer skin should be a vibrant gold or rich green, depending on the variety. If you prefer convenience, canned pineapple chunks in juice can be a great alternative, but opt for those without added sugars for a healthier choice!

What’s the best way to store leftover kabobs?
Very good question! Store any leftover BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs in an airtight container, where they’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their juicy texture, it’s important to seal them well to prevent air from drying them out. When you feel like enjoying them again, just heat them up on the grill for a delightful repeat experience!

Can I freeze BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs?
Absolutely! For longer-lasting kabobs, freeze them before grilling by placing the assembled skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet and putting that in the freezer for about an hour. Once they are firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring no air is trapped. They can be stored like this for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and grill as usual!

What should I do if my kabobs are sticking to the grill?
If you encounter sticky kabobs, it’s likely due to ungreased grill grates or high heat. Before placing your kabobs on the grill, make sure to oil the grates lightly with canola oil using a paper towel. If they still stick, try to gently twist them without force; this can help release them. Avoid flipping them too soon—allow the chicken and veggies to sear and develop a nice crust before turning, typically around 5 minutes.

Are these kabobs suitable for people with allergies?
When it comes to allergies, it’s crucial to tailor the ingredients to your needs. If someone has a gluten allergy, ensure you select gluten-free BBQ and teriyaki sauces. Additionally, check for any vegetable allergies and consider using alternatives like zucchini or mushrooms instead of bell peppers. These kabobs can easily be modified for dietary restrictions, making them a flexible option for many gatherings!