Bbq Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe

There's nothing quite like the sweet, smoky aroma of BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs sizzling on the grill during a summer evening. The juicy chicken paired with caramelized pineapple creates a mouthwatering combination that's hard to resist.

I first discovered this recipe while experimenting with tropical flavors for a backyard barbecue. Since then, it's become a crowd-pleaser that my family requests anytime we fire up the grill. This recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely perfect for warm-weather gatherings or simple weeknight dinners.

Let’s dive into why you’ll love these BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs!

Why You'll Love This BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to grilling recipe. These BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs check all the boxes for flavor, ease, and versatility.

First, they’re incredibly quick and easy to prepare. With just a bit of chopping and marinating, you’ll have vibrant kabobs ready to hit the grill in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy days when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

They’re also wonderfully budget-friendly. Using simple pantry staples and fresh produce, you can serve a meal that feels restaurant-quality without breaking the bank.

One of my favorite things about these kabobs is how family-friendly they are. Kids love the sweet pineapple chunks, while adults appreciate the smoky BBQ flavors. It's one of those rare dishes that everyone can agree on.

Lastly, the recipe is extremely versatile. Whether you're cooking for a small family dinner or a large summer party, these kabobs scale easily and adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make these kabobs so special.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs lies in their fresh, simple ingredients that work together to deliver maximum flavor.

The chicken is the star of the show. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean, tender texture. If you want even juicier results, chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative. Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform pieces so they cook evenly on the skewers.

Fresh pineapple adds a natural sweetness that perfectly complements the smoky BBQ sauce. Using fresh rather than canned pineapple ensures firmer texture and better caramelization when grilled. The sugars in the fruit lightly char on the grill, giving each bite a touch of smokiness and sweetness.

The BBQ sauce ties everything together. A good-quality store-bought BBQ sauce works great, but you can also make your own if you have a favorite recipe. I love using a sauce with a hint of honey or brown sugar to amplify the sweetness of the pineapple.

For added color and flavor, I include bell peppers. Red, yellow, and green bell peppers not only make the kabobs visually appealing but also add a mild sweetness and crunch that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and juicy pineapple.

You'll also need sturdy wooden or metal skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill.

How To Make This BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Making these kabobs is straightforward and fun, perfect even if you're new to grilling.

Start by prepping your ingredients. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, aiming for even sizes to ensure uniform cooking. Slice the fresh pineapple into chunks and chop the bell peppers into large, even pieces.

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with half of the BBQ sauce. Toss everything together to evenly coat the chicken, then cover and refrigerate. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors penetrate the meat and keeps the chicken moist on the grill.

While the chicken marinates, prepare your grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F. If you're using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are hot and evenly distributed.

Once the chicken has marinated, it's time to assemble the kabobs. Thread the chicken, pineapple, and bell peppers onto the skewers, alternating ingredients for a colorful presentation. Be sure not to overcrowd the skewers to allow even cooking on all sides.

Place the assembled kabobs on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even grilling. During the last few minutes, brush the kabobs with the remaining BBQ sauce. This creates a sticky, caramelized glaze that's absolutely irresistible.

The kabobs are done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has developed a light char on the outside. Total cooking time should be around 12-15 minutes from start to finish.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, these kabobs store beautifully for future meals.

For short-term storage, place the cooled kabobs in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.

For longer storage, you can also freeze the cooked chicken and pineapple pieces (remove them from the skewers first). Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

When it’s time to reheat, gently warm the kabobs in the oven at 300°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery and the pineapple overly soft.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about these kabobs is how adaptable they are to different tastes and ingredients.

If you want a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the BBQ sauce before marinating the chicken. This adds a subtle heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.

You can easily swap out the protein if desired. Shrimp, pork tenderloin, or even firm tofu work wonderfully in place of chicken, offering a fun twist for different dietary preferences.

For a low-carb version, omit the pineapple and focus on a variety of colorful vegetables like zucchini, onion, and mushrooms. These grill up beautifully and still pair well with the BBQ flavors.

If you prefer a homemade sauce, whip up a quick blend of ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of smoked paprika for a delicious homemade BBQ glaze.

Lastly, for an extra tropical flair, you can add a splash of lime juice and a handful of chopped cilantro just before serving. This brightens the flavors and gives the dish a refreshing finish.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. With a little creativity, BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs can fit any occasion and please every palate.

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