As the sun dips below the horizon, the enticing aroma of smoky goodness fills the air, and I can’t help but feel my heart race. Enter my Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs—a delightful treat that brings together the sweet juiciness of pineapple, the smokiness of BBQ chicken, and the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon. These kabobs aren’t just fantastic for family gatherings; they also make for an easy weeknight dinner that kids and adults alike will devour. With minimal prep and a quick turn on the grill, you’ll find yourself whipping up this crowd-pleaser more often than you think. Are you ready to fire up your grill and dive into a delightful, flavor-packed feast?
Why are Kabobs a Summer Hit?
Versatile and Fun: Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs offer a delightful mix that caters to all tastes. You can swap ingredients easily, such as trying shrimp or tofu for a twist!
Quick Prep Time: With minimal prep and cooking time, they fit perfectly into busy summer nights.
Kid-Friendly Appeal: Kids adore the sweet and savory combo, making family mealtime enjoyable.
Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for barbecues and picnics, they come together in a flash, just like my delicious Wonton Rotisserie Chicken!
Flavor Explosion: The blend of smoky, juicy chicken and caramelized pineapple creates a mouthwatering feast that will have everyone coming back for more!
Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs Ingredients
• Get ready to create a flavor sensation with these Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs!
For the Chicken and Bacon
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless for a tender and juicy bite; swap for chicken thighs for extra moisture.
- Bacon – 1 lb, cut into 4-inch pieces; gives your kabobs a savory crunch—partially cook it for best results.
For the Marinade
- BBQ Sauce – 1 1/4 cups; use a favorite brand to infuse sweetness and flavor right into the chicken.
- Smoked Paprika – 1/2 teaspoon; adds a rich smoky depth to elevate the overall taste of the kabobs.
For the Sweet Elements
- Pineapple – 1 large, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks; brings a burst of sweetness and moisture—fresh is best, but canned works too.
- Fresh Lime Juice – 1 tablespoon; a splash of acidity that brightens the flavors beautifully.
These ingredients come together to create the succulent Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs that everyone will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs
Step 1: Prep Chicken
Begin by cutting boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes, allowing for even cooking. In a large bowl, combine the chicken with 1¼ cups of BBQ sauce, ensuring all pieces are generously coated. Cover and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
Step 2: Prep Ingredients
While the chicken marinates, slice your bacon into 4-inch pieces and cut the pineapple into 1-inch chunks. To prevent the wooden skewers from burning, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for making your Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs safe and enjoyable to grill.
Step 3: Cook Bacon
Place the chopped bacon on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels to absorb some grease. Microwave the bacon on high for 2-5 minutes until it is partially cooked but still pliable. The goal is to achieve a softness that allows easy wrapping around the chicken—this will ensure a delicious crispiness when the kabobs are grilled.
Step 4: Assemble Kabobs
Once everything is prepped, it’s time to assemble your kabobs. Begin threading onto each soaked skewer by alternating 1 cube of marinated chicken, followed by a bacon-wrapped chicken piece, and then a chunk of pineapple. Repeat this pattern, ensuring to start and end with the vibrant pineapple, creating a colorful and appealing kabob.
Step 5: Season
Before grilling, sprinkle the assembled kabobs with ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika to enhance the lovely smoky flavor. This addition is a game changer for your Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs, providing depth to each bite and ensuring that every nibble is bursting with flavor.
Step 6: Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature between 375-400°F. Once hot, carefully place your kabobs on the grill. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning them every 3-4 minutes to achieve golden-brown and caramelized perfection on all sides. Watch for the edges of the bacon to crisp up, creating mouth-watering textures.
Step 7: Glaze
With about 5 minutes left of grilling, take some reserved BBQ sauce and brush it over the kabobs. This step creates a deliciously sticky glaze that enhances the flavors without burning, resulting in an irresistible finish on your Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest under a piece of foil for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring each bite is succulent. Just before serving, drizzle the kabobs with a tablespoon of fresh lime juice for a zesty finish that brightens all those BBQ flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are fully cooled before sealing to maintain their freshness.
Freezer: You can freeze the kabobs separately or as a whole. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through or warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, which helps to regain some of that grilled texture.
Serving Tip: For the best flavor, reheat and serve the kabobs with a fresh drizzle of BBQ sauce to enhance the smoky goodness!
Expert Tips for Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs
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Bacon Precooking: Pre-cook the bacon slightly to ensure it crisps perfectly on the grill, avoiding any chewy bites in your kabobs.
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Uniform Size: Cut chicken and pineapple into similar sizes (about 1½-2 inches) for even cooking, ensuring consistent flavors in each bite.
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Soaking Skewers: Don’t skip soaking your wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes; this prevents them from burning on the grill and keeps your kabobs intact.
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Basting Timing: Brush reserved BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of grilling to avoid charring while enhancing the kabobs’ flavors.
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Resting Time: Allow the kabobs to rest under foil for 5-10 minutes before serving. This step is crucial for juicy, tender Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs.
What to Serve with Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs
Complete your meal with these delicious sides that perfectly complement the flavor-packed kabobs.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw balances the smoky flavors beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch to each bite.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn enhances the summer BBQ vibe, and the natural sweetness pairs delightfully with the savory kabobs.
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Coconut Rice: Soft, fragrant coconut rice offers a tropical twist that harmonizes with the grilled pineapple’s sweetness, rounding out the meal.
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Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans bring a comforting, smoky flavor, providing a satisfying contrast to the kabobs’ freshness.
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Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds a cool, creamy element that is a classic BBQ companion, making your meal even more comforting.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, vibrant fruit salad with seasonal fruits not only adds color to your plate but also enhances the kabobs’ sweet-savory balance.
Enjoy pairing these options for a delightful summer feast that will leave everyone wanting more!
Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs Variations
Feel free to customize your kabobs with these delightful twists that will make your Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs even more special!
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Seafood Swap: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a lighter, seafood-inspired treat. Just marinate briefly and grill until pink and juicy!
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Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken and bacon with cubed tofu and veggies like bell peppers for a plant-based alternative bursting with color and flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce for an extra punch. The heat complements the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully!
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Tropical Twist: Switch pineapple for mango chunks for a different sweet twist that pairs excellently with BBQ flavors. It’s like a summer luau on a skewer!
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Flavor Boost: Experiment with different BBQ sauces, like a tangy mustard-based sauce or a spicy chipotle variety, to elevate the flavor profile. Each sauce tells a different delicious story!
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Extra Veggies: Incorporate cherry tomatoes or zucchini slices on the skewers for additional color and texture. This adds a nice well-rounded touch!
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Bacon Alternatives: Try wrapping the chicken with prosciutto for a gourmet take on your kabobs. Its salty richness pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pineapple.
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Smoky Rub: Instead of smoked paprika, use a homemade spice rub with cayenne, cumin, and garlic powder for a deeper, aromatic flavor that marries beautifully with the BBQ sauce.
These variations will inspire creativity, making each grilling session a unique culinary adventure. If you’re looking for other delicious recipes, don’t miss out on my tasty Strawberry Pecan Chicken or my family-favorite Mummy Chicken Pot! Enjoy exploring new flavors with every kabob!
Make Ahead Options
These Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, slice the bacon and pineapple ahead of time, storing them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to grill, just assemble the kabobs, and cook them as directed. For optimal quality, ensure all ingredients are stored in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Simply brush with BBQ sauce and grill to achieve that smoky, caramelized perfection when it’s time to serve!
Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe pineapple?
Absolutely! When choosing a pineapple, look for a fruit that is slightly soft to the touch and has a sweet aroma at the base. The skin should be golden with no dark spots. If you find a pineapple with dark spots all over, it may be overripe. Fresh is best for this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, canned pineapple works too.
How should I store leftover kabobs?
Very simply, your leftover Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they have fully cooled before sealing to help maintain their freshness. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them!
Can I freeze the kabobs?
Yes, you can! To freeze the kabobs, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if the chicken becomes dry while grilling?
If you find that your chicken is drying out while grilling, consider cooking it on a lower heat setting next time, or cut the chicken pieces slightly larger to keep them juicier. Basting with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking can also help seal in moisture and flavor. Additionally, marinating for a longer period can introduce even more moisture to the chicken.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
It’s essential to note that while the Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs are delicious for humans, they may not be safe for pets. Avoid giving any seasoned or sauced chicken, bacon, or pineapple to dogs and cats. Also, if you have specific allergies, remember that BBQ sauces often contain soy or gluten; use allergen-free alternatives to keep it safe!
How can I ensure even cooking for the kabobs?
Certainly! For even cooking, aim to cut your chicken and pineapple into uniform pieces, roughly 1.5 to 2 inches. This will help ensure that everything cooks through at the same time. Additionally, turning the kabobs every 3-4 minutes on the grill allows for even exposure to the heat, resulting in tender and flavorful kabobs.
Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs for Summer Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes and marinate in BBQ sauce for 2-3 hours.
- Slice bacon into 4-inch pieces and soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes.
- Microwave bacon on high for 2-5 minutes until partially cooked.
- Assemble kabobs by threading chicken, bacon-wrapped chicken, and pineapple onto soaked skewers.
- Sprinkle with smoked paprika before grilling.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat and grill kabobs for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Brush kabobs with reserved BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes of grilling.
- Let rest under foil for 5-10 minutes before serving and drizzle with lime juice.
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