BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

A summertime favorite, BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs combine juicy chicken with the natural sweetness of pineapple and the smoky richness of barbecue sauce. These vibrant skewers are perfect for grilling and guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These kabobs offer the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with a slight char from the grill that enhances every bite. The pineapple brings a refreshing twist that complements the tender chicken and vegetables. It’s a colorful, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces
• fresh pineapple chunks
• red bell pepper, cut into large pieces
• sweet onion, cut into large chunks
• barbecue sauce
• teriyaki sauce
• garlic, minced
• fresh ginger, grated
• canola oil
• kosher salt
• freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Reserve ½ cup of the marinade for later.
2. Place the chicken pieces in a resealable bag or bowl, pour in the remaining marinade, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
3. Assemble skewers by alternating marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, bell pepper, and onion pieces.
4. Brush kabobs with canola oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Preheat grill to medium heat. Grill kabobs for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
6. In the last few minutes of grilling, brush the reserved marinade over the kabobs and cook for 1–2 more minutes to caramelize.
7. Remove from grill and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including marination)
Cooking time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Try using boneless chicken thighs for a juicier result.
• Add zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for more variety.
• Replace teriyaki sauce with a homemade mix of soy sauce, honey, and vinegar for a different flavor.
• You can also broil the kabobs in the oven or cook them on a stovetop grill pan if grilling outdoors isn’t an option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the kabobs in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave them in 30-second intervals until heated.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 2 hours is recommended, but for deeper flavor, marinate overnight.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh pineapple offers better texture and flavor. Drain canned pineapple thoroughly before use.

What type of barbecue sauce works best?

Use your favorite brand, or opt for a smoky or honey-based variety for enhanced flavor.

Can these be made ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble the kabobs up to a day in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

How do I prevent the skewers from burning?

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

What should I serve with these kabobs?

They pair well with rice, couscous, grilled veggies, or a crisp green salad.

Can I cook them in the oven?

Yes. Broil them on a foil-lined baking sheet, turning once, until the chicken is fully cooked.

Are these kabobs spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add chili flakes or a spicy BBQ sauce if desired.

Can I freeze the kabobs?

It’s best to freeze the marinated raw chicken and assemble the kabobs fresh. Cooked kabobs can also be frozen but may lose some texture.

How do I know the chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Conclusion

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are a vibrant, flavorful dish ideal for grilling season. With their sweet-savory combination and colorful presentation, they are perfect for family dinners or outdoor gatherings. Easy to customize and simple to prepare, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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