Bring the flavors of summer straight to your grill with these vibrant BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs. Juicy chicken pieces marinated in a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce pair perfectly with sweet, caramelized pineapple chunks, creating a mouthwatering combination that’s both refreshing and satisfying. These kabobs are easy to assemble and quick to cook, making them the ideal dish for backyard barbecues, picnics, or any sunny day gathering. Bursting with bold flavors and colorful ingredients, they’re sure to become a favorite go-to for warm-weather meals.
Why You’ll Love These BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
Perfect Sweet & Savory Blend: The tangy BBQ sauce complements the natural sweetness of grilled pineapple beautifully.
Juicy, Tender Chicken: Marinating ensures the chicken stays moist and full of flavor with every bite.
Quick & Easy to Prepare: Minimal prep and fast grilling make it a hassle-free summer recipe.
Vibrant Presentation: Colorful kabobs bring a festive touch to any meal or party table.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve with rice, salad, or enjoy straight off the skewer.
Family & Crowd Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike — perfect for gatherings of any size.
Healthy & Balanced: Lean protein paired with fruit keeps this dish light yet satisfying.
Fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy the juicy, smoky, and sweet flavors of these irresistible BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs!
Ingredients for BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
Tender chicken breast chunks, ready to soak up smoky BBQ flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Pineapple chunks: Sweet and juicy, they add a tropical twist. Canned works great, but fresh is even better!
Red and green bell peppers: These colorful veggies not only add crunch but also a pop of color to your kabobs.
Red onion: Adds a mild sweetness when grilled. Cut into wedges for easy threading.
Barbecue sauce: The flavor powerhouse! Choose your favorite brand or make your own for a personal touch.
Olive oil: Helps keep the chicken moist and enhances the overall flavor.
Garlic powder and onion powder: These seasonings elevate the taste without overpowering the dish.
Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
Skewers: Wooden or metal, they’re necessary for assembling your kabobs. If using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them!
For those looking to mix things up, feel free to substitute the vegetables with your favorites, like zucchini or cherry tomatoes. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
Creating BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s get grilling!
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill. While they soak, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill is essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and ensuring your kabobs cook evenly. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip the soaking step!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated. This marinating step is crucial; it infuses the chicken with flavor and keeps it juicy while grilling. For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken for 1-2 hours before assembling the kabobs.
Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs
Now comes the fun part! Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and onion onto the skewers. Alternate the ingredients for a colorful presentation. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking. This step not only makes your kabobs look great but also ensures that every bite is packed with flavor!
Step 4: Grill the Kabobs
Place the assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, and enjoy the mouthwatering aroma wafting through the air. Those grill marks will make your kabobs look irresistible!
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the kabobs are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful. After resting, serve your BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs hot off the grill. They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Tips for Success
Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Marinate the chicken for 1-2 hours for deeper flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
Don’t overcrowd the skewers; leave space for even cooking.
Experiment with different vegetables for a unique twist.
Equipment Needed
Grill: A gas or charcoal grill works perfectly for these kabobs.
Skewers: Use wooden or metal skewers; just remember to soak wooden ones.
Mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken and mixing ingredients.
Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked to perfection.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add some heat by incorporating jalapeño slices or a spicy barbecue sauce into your kabobs.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and add more veggies like mushrooms and zucchini for a hearty meal.
Fruit Medley: Mix in other fruits like mango or peaches for a sweet twist that complements the pineapple.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic flavor boost.
Gluten-Free Sauce: Ensure your barbecue sauce is gluten-free if you’re catering to dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair your kabobs with a refreshing coleslaw or a light cucumber salad for a crisp contrast.
Drinks: Serve with a chilled lemonade or a light beer to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Arrange kabobs on a platter with fresh herbs for a vibrant touch.
FAQs about BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
Can I use frozen chicken for these kabobs? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before marinating. This ensures even flavor absorption and proper cooking on the grill.
What type of barbecue sauce works best? The best barbecue sauce is one that you love! Whether it’s sweet, tangy, or spicy, choose a sauce that complements the sweetness of the pineapple. Homemade sauces can also add a personal touch.
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking? Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures it’s safe to eat and perfectly juicy!
Can I make these kabobs ahead of time? Yes! You can marinate the chicken a few hours in advance or even the night before. Just assemble the kabobs right before grilling for the freshest taste.
What can I substitute for pineapple? If pineapple isn’t your thing, try using peaches or mangoes for a similar sweet and juicy effect. They’ll add a delightful twist to your kabobs!
Final Thoughts
BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are more than just a meal; they’re a celebration of summer flavors and good times. Each bite brings together the sweetness of pineapple and the savory goodness of grilled chicken, creating a symphony of taste that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re grilling for family or friends, these kabobs are sure to spark joy and laughter around the table. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can focus on what really matters—making memories. So fire up that grill, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the deliciousness that these kabobs bring to your summer gatherings!
BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are a delicious and easy summer dish that combines tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and colorful vegetables, all grilled to perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks in juice, drained
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 small red onion, cut into wedges
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and onion onto the skewers, alternating between each ingredient.
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the barbecue sauce for 1-2 hours before assembling the kabobs.
Feel free to substitute the vegetables with your favorites, such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms, for a personalized touch.
