BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are a delicious and vibrant grilled dish that combines sweet, smoky, and savory flavors all in one bite. Juicy chicken pieces, caramelized pineapple chunks, and colorful vegetables are skewered and slathered with tangy barbecue sauce, then grilled to perfection. These kabobs are a crowd-pleaser and a summertime favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with bold, tropical flavors thanks to pineapple and BBQ sauce
• Perfect for grilling season and outdoor gatherings
• Easy to prepare and fun to assemble with the family
• Customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins
• Great balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Fresh pineapple chunks
• Bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
• Red onion
• BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Wooden or metal skewers

Directions

this recipe

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes and place in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to coat.
3. Chop pineapple, bell peppers, and red onion into chunks roughly the same size as the chicken pieces.
4. Assemble the skewers by alternating chicken, pineapple, and vegetables.
5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
6. Place kabobs on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking.
7. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush BBQ sauce generously over the kabobs.
8. Grill until chicken is fully cooked and has nice char marks. Serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 32 minutes

Variations

• Use shrimp or pork instead of chicken for a different protein twist.
• Swap pineapple for mango or peaches for a fruity variation.
• Add zucchini or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for more veggie goodness.
• Use a spicy or smoky BBQ sauce to change up the flavor profile.
• Make it vegetarian by using tofu and extra vegetables.

storage/reheating

Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, remove from skewers and warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh pineapple gives the best texture and flavor. If using canned, drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

Any BBQ sauce you love will work—smoky, sweet, spicy, or tangy. You can also make your own for a personal touch.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have no pink inside.

Can I bake these in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, turning once and brushing with BBQ sauce halfway through.

Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the skewers a few hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to grill.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

It’s optional. A quick marinade in BBQ sauce or a mix of oil, garlic, and spices for 30 minutes can enhance flavor.

Can I grill these on a stovetop grill pan?

Absolutely. Preheat the grill pan over medium-high heat and cook as directed, turning occasionally.

How do I prevent the skewers from burning?

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

What can I serve with these kabobs?

They pair well with rice, grilled corn, potato salad, or a green salad.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, remove from skewers, cool completely, and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings a tropical twist to your grill. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or making a quick weeknight dinner, these kabobs are always a hit. Sweet pineapple, smoky BBQ sauce, and juicy grilled chicken make for a satisfying combo that’s sure to please.

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