Description
BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs feature tender chunks of boneless, skinless chicken breasts paired with juicy fresh pineapple, vibrant red and green bell peppers, and red onion, all glazed with a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for grilling enthusiasts looking for a colorful, flavorful dish ideal for summer cookouts and family dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1½-inch pieces
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Fruit
- 1½ cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 small red onion, cut into chunks
Other
- 8 wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare Skewers: If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Make BBQ Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and toss with about half of the prepared BBQ marinade. Cover and let the chicken marinate for 20–30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Assemble Kabobs: Thread the chicken pieces, pineapple chunks, red and green bell peppers, and red onion alternately onto the skewers, creating colorful, balanced kabobs.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill Kabobs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10–14 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking. Grill until the chicken is fully cooked and shows nice char marks.
- Brush with Remaining Sauce: During the last few minutes, brush the kabobs with the remaining BBQ sauce to add extra glaze and flavor.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
- Use fresh pineapple for best texture and flavor; canned pineapple may work but is less firm.
- Do not brush the cooked kabobs with the leftover marinade used on raw chicken unless it has been thoroughly boiled first to avoid contamination.
- Serve these kabobs with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or a crisp fresh salad for a complete meal.
- You can prepare the skewers several hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until grilling time for convenience.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Dinner, Grilling
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
