BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

The flavor-packed BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are a summer grilling must-have! This dish combines the succulent char of grilled chicken with the sweetness of juicy pineapple and the crisp crunch of bell peppers. Each skewer is brushed with a tangy homemade marinade featuring barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger, giving the kabobs a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors.

This recipe is ideal for backyard cookouts, casual gatherings, or weeknight dinners when you’re craving a taste of the tropics. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also delivers a vibrant, colorful presentation that makes any meal feel festive. Whether served over rice, paired with a fresh salad, or enjoyed on its own, these kabobs will bring bold flavor and sunshine to your table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce

• 1/4 cup pineapple juice

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes

• 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces

• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces

• 1 red onion, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces

• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)

• Skewers, soaked in water if wooden

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.

2. Reserve 1/4 cup of the marinade for basting later.

3. Add chicken cubes to the remaining marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).

4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.

5. Thread chicken, pineapple, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers in alternating order.

6. Grill skewers, turning occasionally and basting with reserved marinade, for 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred.

7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour marinating) | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes (1 hr 35 mins with marination)
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs: A Perfect Summer Grilled Delight

When it comes to summer grilling, few things are more crowd-pleasing than skewers loaded with marinated meat, juicy fruits, and colorful vegetables. One standout option is BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs, a dish that beautifully combines the smoky depth of barbecue sauce with the bright, natural sweetness of fresh pineapple. Not only are these kabobs visually stunning and rich in flavor, but they also make for an easy, customizable, and nutritious meal that works well for everything from family dinners to backyard parties.

The Flavor Fusion That Works

What makes BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs so irresistible is the balance of sweet and savory elements. The chicken is marinated in a rich blend of barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and aromatics like garlic and ginger. This infusion ensures that each cube of chicken is deeply flavorful and tender by the time it hits the grill. The pineapple chunks, once grilled, become caramelized, enhancing their sweetness and adding a slight smokiness that perfectly complements the chicken. Bell peppers and onions add a pop of color, crunch, and a touch of earthy bitterness to balance out the sweetness, making every bite a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.

The Inspiration Behind the Dish

Kabobs, also known as skewers or kebabs, are a cooking method used in many cultures around the world, particularly in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Asian cuisines. This particular recipe takes inspiration from Hawaiian BBQ traditions, where pineapple is often used to complement grilled meats. The tropical twist added by pineapple not only lifts the dish with its natural sweetness but also ties into island-style barbecue themes. The flavor profile is somewhat reminiscent of teriyaki, but with the bold, smoky kick that comes from a good barbecue sauce.

The fusion aspect of BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs is what makes it universally loved – it speaks to comfort food lovers, tropical cuisine enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a quick meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are not only flavorful but also a balanced and healthy option. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, making this dish ideal for those who are looking to maintain or build muscle while keeping their fat intake low. Pineapple is packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and bromelain, an enzyme that supports digestion and reduces inflammation. Bell peppers are rich in vitamins A and C, while onions bring additional antioxidants to the mix.

Grilling, as a cooking method, requires minimal added fats and helps retain nutrients, making this a health-conscious choice. You can further enhance the health benefits by serving the kabobs with whole grains like brown rice or quinoa, or alongside a fresh green salad.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Kabobs

1. Uniform Cuts Matter:
To ensure even cooking, it’s essential to cut the chicken, pineapple, and vegetables into uniform sizes. This will prevent overcooked vegetables and undercooked chicken or vice versa.

2. Marinate for Maximum Flavor:
Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, but ideally overnight. This not only improves the taste but also tenderizes the meat. Avoid marinating the pineapple or vegetables in acidic sauces as they can become too soft and lose their texture on the grill.

3. Skewer Strategies:
If using wooden skewers, always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Alternatively, use metal skewers for reusability and better heat conduction.

4. Grill Over Medium-High Heat:
Grilling at medium-high heat helps achieve a perfect char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Baste with reserved marinade during grilling to add more flavor and moisture.

5. Customize with Add-ins:
Feel free to get creative by adding zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even peaches to the skewers. You can also swap out the chicken for shrimp, pork, or tofu for a different twist.

Serving Suggestions

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are highly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes:

• Coconut Rice: A subtly sweet and creamy rice option that complements the tropical notes in the kabobs.

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky crunch of grilled corn pairs wonderfully with the juicy kabobs.

• Mango Salsa: Fresh mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro create a bright, zesty contrast to the savory kabobs.

• Mixed Green Salad: A light side with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the barbecue glaze.

• Flatbread or Pita: For a fun, casual dinner, slide the kabob contents into warm pita bread with a dollop of yogurt sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These kabobs can be prepped in advance to make mealtime easier. Marinate the chicken and chop all your ingredients the night before. Assemble the skewers and store them in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to grill, simply pull them out and get cooking.

Leftover kabobs store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven or on a skillet until warmed through. They also make great leftovers for salads or wraps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Aside from marinating, the actual cooking time is minimal.

• Visually stunning: The colors of the pineapple, peppers, and onion pop, making it an appealing dish for entertaining.

• Customizable: Swap ingredients based on preference or dietary needs.

• Healthy: Lean protein, fruits, and vegetables cooked with minimal oil.

• Great for all occasions: From family weeknight dinners to weekend cookouts, these kabobs fit any setting.

Conclusion

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are more than just another grilled dish – they’re a celebration of flavor, color, and versatility. Whether you’re preparing a casual meal for the family or hosting a lively summer barbecue, these kabobs are sure to impress. The combination of tangy barbecue sauce, tropical pineapple, and perfectly grilled chicken creates a taste experience that’s both comforting and refreshing. With minimal prep and bold payoff, this recipe earns a permanent place in your summer grilling repertoire.

Fire up your grill, skewer up your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a tropical escape right from your own backyard.