There’s something utterly captivating about the medley of flavors in BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs. It’s a dish where the sweet, succulent pineapple meets the savory notes of the marinated chicken, creating a match made in grilling heaven. The tantalizing aroma of BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs sizzling on a summer grill can transform any ordinary backyard into a vibrant, culinary paradise. Add a dash of excitement and gather around to savor these sweet and savory kabobs, as they beckon not just to your taste buds, but tug at your heartstrings too.

I can still vividly recall those sun-drenched weekends spent in my grandmother’s backyard, where the air was suffused with the irresistible scent of grilled chicken skewers. She always had a knack for bringing family together over her famous skewers, with fresh pineapple chunks glistening under the sun, promising a burst of tropical sweetness with every bite. Those Pineapple Chicken Barbecue Skewers were more than just food; they were the centerpiece of laughter, stories, and cherished family moments that I’ll forever hold close.

For a delightful twist on a favorite, you won’t want to miss trying out this tropical pineapple chicken recipe, which brings a sunny, sweet touch to your meal. Pair it with this honey BBQ grilled chicken dish that’s sure to complement the fruity flavors splendidly.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Easy to make: This recipe involves simple steps and requires no fancy kitchen tools, making it perfect for chefs of all skill levels.
Flexible: You can easily change the ingredients or adjust the style to fit your personal taste or dietary needs.
Great for busy days: The kabobs are quick to assemble and cook, offering a delicious meal with minimal fuss.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory combination of pineapple and chicken.
Perfect for guests: These kabobs make an excellent appetizer or main course for summer gatherings or BBQ parties.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Best BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Tools You’ll Need

Mixing bowl
Grill
Skewers (wooden or metal)
Basting brush
Knife
Cutting board

Step 1: Preparation for the BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

⅔ cup barbecue sauce
⅔ cup Teriyaki sauce
3 cloves Garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated Ginger
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
1 sweet onion, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
2 tablespoons canola oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step 2: Cooking the BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Begin by combining the barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, garlic, and ginger in a medium bowl. Reserve 1/2 cup of this mixture and set it aside for later. Place the remaining sauce in a gallon-sized Ziploc bag or a large bowl, adding the chicken pieces to marinate for at least 2 hours and up to 8 hours. Turn the bag occasionally for even marination. Once marinated, drain the chicken from the sauce.

Thread the chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, and onion onto skewers. Brush the assembled skewers with canola oil and season them with salt and pepper to your liking. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Add the skewers to the grill and let them cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken is completely cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, which should take about 10 minutes. Brush the skewers with the reserved barbecue sauce mixture, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Assembling and Finishing

Once grilled to perfection, serve the skewers immediately for the best enjoyment. Arrange them on a platter for a stunning presentation, and offer the extra reserved sauce on the side for those who like their kabobs extra saucy. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for an added burst of freshness and color.

Tips for the Best BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Every Time

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Uniformly cut the chicken and vegetables for even cooking; this ensures that each piece is perfectly cooked at the same time.
If using canned pineapple, make sure to drain it well to avoid extra moisture which could affect the grilling process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overcrowding the skewers; leaving some space will allow for more even cooking and proper caramelization.
Do not marinate the chicken for more than 8 hours in the pineapple juice, as the acidity can break down the chicken, making it too soft.
Make sure the grill is preheated before you start cooking to ensure the kabobs sear properly for a beautiful char.

Perfect Sides to Serve with BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Creamy coleslaw complements the smoky flavor of the kabobs and adds a refreshing crunch.
Grilled corn on the cob is a classic BBQ side that pairs beautifully with the taste of these skewers.
Quinoa or couscous salad can add a hearty and nutritious element to your meal.

Is This BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Healthy?

This dish is not only delicious but can be a part of a healthy diet too. The use of chicken breast makes it a lean source of protein. Pineapple adds a sweet touch without the need for added sugars, and bell peppers and onions provide essential vitamins and antioxidants. For a lower-carb variation, consider using a homemade BBQ sauce that limits added sugars or opt for a sugar-free store-bought version.

FAQs about BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Q: How do you make BBQ pineapple chicken kabobs?

A: It’s simple! Marinate chicken chunks in a mix of barbecue and teriyaki sauces, thread them on skewers with pineapple, bell peppers, and onions, then grill until perfectly cooked. The full recipe is detailed above for you to follow.

Q: What goes well with pineapple chicken kabobs?

A: These kabobs pair wonderfully with sides like creamy coleslaw, grilled corn on the cob, or a fresh quinoa salad. These sides complement the sweet and savory flavors, making for a well-rounded meal.

Q: How long do you grill chicken kabobs?

A: Grill the kabobs for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

Q: Can you use canned pineapple for kabobs?

A: Yes, you can. Just make sure to drain the canned pineapple well to prevent excess moisture that might affect the grilling process.

Wrapping Up the BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Adventure

Enjoying BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs is like embarking on a mini tropical vacation, right in your own backyard. Their sweet and savory combination pleases palates of all ages and is bound to become a favorite at your summer gatherings. Easy to prepare, healthy, and full of flavor, these kabobs deliver a taste of grill-filled happiness with every bite. Also, for another delightful twist on grilling, check out this last flavorful idea.

Now, it’s your turn! Try out the recipe, share your experiences in the comments, and don’t forget to save this for your next cookout inspiration. Happy grilling!