BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe

It’s funny how some of the best meals come from the simplest ideas. For years, summer barbecues at our place were pretty standard fare – burgers, hot dogs, maybe some grilled veggies. Then one sunny afternoon, looking for something a bit different, I stumbled upon the idea of BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs. Honestly, it was a game-changer. The sweet and tangy pineapple against the savory BBQ chicken was an absolute revelation. My family, who are usually quite vocal about their dinner preferences (especially my two picky teenagers!), devoured them. Silence fell over the table, broken only by contented murmurs and the clinking of forks. Even my youngest, who’s usually suspicious of anything “fruity” in her main course, asked for seconds. Since then, BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs have become a summer staple in our household. They’re easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s guaranteed to brighten up your barbecue and leave everyone wanting more, you’ve absolutely come to the right place. Get ready to experience the magic of sweet, smoky, and utterly delicious BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs – you won’t regret it!

Ingredients

Creating the perfect BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the overall flavor profile and texture of this delightful dish. Let’s break down each ingredient, highlighting why they are essential and offering some helpful tips for choosing the best quality.

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The foundation of our kabobs! You have a choice here between chicken breasts and thighs. Chicken breasts are leaner, offering a lighter, more delicate texture. They cook quickly and are a popular choice for those watching their fat intake. However, chicken thighs, while slightly higher in fat, are incredibly flavorful and remain moist and tender even when grilled. For kabobs, thighs can be particularly forgiving on the grill as they are less likely to dry out. When choosing chicken, look for plump, pink pieces that are free of blemishes or off-odors. Fresh, high-quality chicken will always yield the best results. If using frozen chicken, ensure it is completely thawed before marinating to allow the flavors to penetrate properly and to ensure even cooking on the grill. Cutting the chicken into roughly 1-inch cubes is ideal for kabobs, allowing them to cook through evenly and fit nicely on skewers. Uniformly sized pieces are key to consistent grilling.
• 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce: The soul of the BBQ flavor! BBQ sauce is where we introduce that smoky, tangy, and sweet element that makes these kabobs so irresistible. The type of BBQ sauce you choose can dramatically alter the final taste. Consider your personal preference. Do you prefer a smoky hickory flavor, a sweet and tangy tomato-based sauce, or perhaps a spicier chipotle-infused BBQ sauce? Experimenting with different BBQ sauces is a great way to customize this recipe to your liking. For a richer flavor, consider using a BBQ sauce that is made with molasses or brown sugar. For a tangier kick, look for sauces that incorporate vinegar or mustard. High-quality BBQ sauces often have a good balance of sweetness, acidity, and spice. Reading the ingredient list can be helpful – look for sauces with real ingredients and fewer artificial additives. You’ll be using BBQ sauce both in the marinade and for basting during grilling, so choose one you truly love.
• 1/4 cup Pineapple Juice: A touch of tropical sweetness and tenderizing power! Pineapple juice serves a dual purpose in this recipe. First, it adds a lovely tropical sweetness that complements the BBQ sauce and fresh pineapple chunks beautifully. Secondly, pineapple juice contains bromelain, an enzyme that acts as a natural meat tenderizer. Marinating the chicken in pineapple juice helps to break down the proteins, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy chicken kabobs. Freshly squeezed pineapple juice is always the best option if you have the time and resources. However, good quality store-bought pineapple juice will also work perfectly well. Look for 100% pineapple juice without added sugars or preservatives. The natural sweetness of the pineapple juice is all you need.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: For moisture, flavor, and grilling perfection! Olive oil is a kitchen staple for good reason. In this marinade, olive oil helps to keep the chicken moist during grilling and prevents it from drying out. It also aids in flavor distribution, helping the BBQ sauce and pineapple juice to coat the chicken evenly. Extra virgin olive oil is a great choice for its rich flavor and health benefits. However, regular olive oil or even a neutral oil like canola oil can also be used. The key is to ensure the chicken is lightly coated in oil to promote even cooking and prevent sticking on the grill grates.
• 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce: Umami depth and savory notes! Soy sauce adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the marinade, contributing a savory umami element that balances the sweetness of the pineapple and BBQ sauce. It also enhances the overall complexity of the flavor profile. Low-sodium soy sauce is recommended to control the salt content of the dish. If you are gluten-free, you can substitute tamari, which is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, or coconut aminos for a soy-free option that still provides a similar savory depth.
• 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar: Tangy brightness and flavor balance! Apple cider vinegar introduces a bright, tangy acidity to the marinade. This acidity helps to cut through the richness of the BBQ sauce and adds a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness of the pineapple. It also contributes to the tenderizing process, working in conjunction with the pineapple juice to ensure incredibly succulent chicken. If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, you can substitute white wine vinegar or even lemon juice, although apple cider vinegar offers a slightly milder and fruitier tang that works particularly well in this recipe.
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Aromatic and savory base! Garlic powder adds a foundational layer of savory flavor to the marinade. It’s convenient and provides a consistent garlic flavor throughout the chicken. Freshly minced garlic can also be used (about 2-3 cloves), but garlic powder offers a smoother flavor that integrates seamlessly into the marinade. If using fresh garlic, mince it finely to ensure it distributes evenly and flavors the chicken effectively.
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Essential spice and flavor enhancer! Black pepper is a fundamental spice that adds a touch of heat and enhances the overall flavor of the marinade. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its brighter, more aromatic flavor. Adjust the amount of black pepper to your preference. If you like a bit more spice, you can increase the amount slightly or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.

For the Kabobs:

• 1 Fresh Pineapple: The star of the show! Fresh pineapple is what brings the tropical sweetness and juicy texture to these kabobs. Look for a pineapple that is heavy for its size, with a fragrant aroma at the base. The skin should be golden-yellow and slightly yielding to the touch, indicating ripeness. Avoid pineapples that are green or have bruises or soft spots. To prepare the pineapple, cut off the top and bottom, then carefully slice off the skin, following the curve of the pineapple. Remove any remaining “eyes.” Cut the pineapple into 1-inch chunks, similar in size to the chicken pieces, to ensure they cook evenly on the skewers. Canned pineapple chunks can be used in a pinch, but fresh pineapple provides a superior flavor and texture. If using canned, make sure to drain them well and opt for pineapple packed in juice rather than syrup to avoid excessive sweetness.
• 1 Red Bell Pepper: Color, sweetness, and nutritional boost! Red bell pepper adds vibrant color, a slightly sweet flavor, and a satisfying crunch to the kabobs. Choose a firm, bright red bell pepper without any blemishes. Cut the bell pepper into 1-inch pieces, similar in size to the chicken and pineapple. Red bell peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants, adding a healthy element to your BBQ. You can also use other colors of bell peppers, such as yellow or orange, for a variety of colors and slightly different flavor profiles.
• 1 Red Onion: Pungency and savory depth! Red onion contributes a slightly pungent, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the pineapple and bell pepper and the richness of the BBQ chicken. Choose a firm red onion without soft spots. Cut the red onion into wedges or chunks that are similar in size to the other kabob ingredients. Red onion adds a lovely visual contrast to the other ingredients and its flavor mellows beautifully as it grills, becoming sweeter and more tender. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the red onion pieces in cold water for about 10 minutes before assembling the kabobs.
• Wooden or Metal Skewers: The vehicle for your delicious creations! You’ll need skewers to assemble your kabobs. Wooden skewers are readily available and inexpensive, but they need to be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers are reusable and don’t require soaking. They also tend to conduct heat better, which can help to cook the ingredients from the inside out. Choose skewers that are long enough to hold several pieces of chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, and red onion, while still being manageable on your grill. About 12-inch skewers are generally a good size.

Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients prepped and ready, it’s time to assemble and cook these mouthwatering BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs! Follow these step-by-step instructions for grilling perfection.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Minimum 30 minutes, Ideally 2-4 hours)

• In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cubed chicken, BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper.
• Stir well to ensure that all the chicken pieces are evenly coated in the marinade.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For a more intense flavor and even more tender chicken, marinate for 2-4 hours, or even overnight in the refrigerator. The longer marinating time allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the chicken and the pineapple juice to work its tenderizing magic. However, avoid marinating for excessively long periods (over 8 hours) with pineapple juice, as the bromelain can start to break down the chicken too much, potentially leading to a slightly mushy texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Pineapple

• While the chicken is marinating, prepare your pineapple, red bell pepper, and red onion.
• Cut the pineapple into 1-inch chunks.
• Cut the red bell pepper into 1-inch pieces.
• Cut the red onion into wedges or chunks of a similar size.
• Set aside the prepared vegetables and pineapple, ready for assembling the kabobs.

Step 3: Soak Wooden Skewers (If Using)

• If you are using wooden skewers, it is crucial to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from catching fire or burning up on the grill.
• Submerge the wooden skewers in a shallow dish or pan filled with water. Ensure they are fully submerged.
• Let them soak while the chicken is marinating and you are preparing the vegetables and pineapple.

Step 4: Assemble the Kabobs

• Once the chicken has marinated and the skewers are ready (soaked or metal), it’s time to assemble the kabobs.
• Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C).
• Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, red bell pepper pieces, and red onion chunks onto the skewers.
• Alternate the ingredients as you thread them onto the skewers, creating a visually appealing and flavorful combination. There is no strict order, but aim for a balanced mix of chicken, pineapple, and vegetables on each skewer.
• Leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking and allow heat to circulate.
• Aim for about 4-5 pieces of chicken and a similar amount of vegetables and pineapple per skewer, depending on the length of your skewers and the size of your ingredients.

Step 5: Grill the Kabobs

• Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the kabobs from sticking.
• Place the assembled kabobs directly onto the preheated grill grates.
• Grill for approximately 10-15 minutes, turning the kabobs occasionally to ensure even cooking on all sides.
• Baste the kabobs with extra BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of grilling. This will add an extra layer of flavor and create a beautiful caramelized glaze.
• The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest piece of chicken to ensure it is fully cooked.
• The vegetables should be tender-crisp and slightly charred, and the pineapple should be caramelized and softened.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

• Once the kabobs are cooked through and nicely grilled, remove them from the grill and place them on a clean platter.
• Let the kabobs rest for a few minutes (about 5 minutes) before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness of your homemade BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs!

Nutrition Facts

(Approximate values per serving – Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and BBQ sauce brand)

Servings: Approximately 6 servings (2 kabobs per serving)
Serving Size: 2 Kabobs

Calories per Serving: Approximately 450-550 calories

• Protein: 40-50g
• Fat: 15-25g
  • Saturated Fat: 3-5g
• Cholesterol: 120-150mg
• Sodium: 500-800mg (can vary greatly depending on BBQ sauce and soy sauce)
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
  • Fiber: 3-5g
  • Sugar: 20-30g (primarily from pineapple and BBQ sauce)

Important Notes:

• These are estimated values and can vary.
• Using leaner chicken breast will reduce fat content.
• Choosing a lower-sugar BBQ sauce will reduce sugar and carbohydrate content.
• Serving sizes can be adjusted to meet individual dietary needs.
• Consider these values as a general guideline for planning your meal. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time

The beauty of BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs is that while they deliver impressive flavor, they are relatively straightforward and quick to prepare. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Prep Time (Chopping & Marinating): 20-30 minutes
  • Chopping chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, and red onion: 15-20 minutes
  • Making the marinade and marinating chicken: 5-10 minutes (active) + 30 minutes to 4 hours (inactive marinating time)
• Cook Time (Grilling): 10-15 minutes
• Total Time (Including Marinating Time):
  • Minimum: 40-50 minutes (with 30 minutes marinating)
  • Ideal (Longer Marinating): 1 hour 10 minutes – 4 hours 45 minutes (with 2-4 hours marinating)

Tips for Time Efficiency:

• Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables and pineapple while the chicken is marinating to maximize your time. You can even chop them a day ahead and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Marinate in the Morning: If you plan to grill the kabobs in the evening, prepare the marinade and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator throughout the day. This significantly reduces your active prep time right before grilling.
• Use Pre-Cut Vegetables (If Necessary): In a pinch, you can use pre-cut pineapple chunks and bell pepper strips from the grocery store to save a few minutes of chopping time. However, fresh-cut is always preferable for flavor and texture.
• Metal Skewers: Using metal skewers eliminates the need for soaking, saving you 30 minutes of soaking time.
• Efficient Grilling: Preheat your grill properly and ensure the grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking. This will ensure efficient grilling and prevent delays.

How to Serve

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are a versatile dish that can be served in numerous delicious ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your kabob experience:

Main Course Pairings:

• Rice:
  • Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice perfectly complements the tropical flavors of the kabobs.
  • Jasmine Rice: Fragrant and fluffy, jasmine rice is a classic side that soaks up the delicious juices from the kabobs.
  • Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice offers a nutty flavor and added fiber.
• Salads:
  • Quinoa Salad: A vibrant quinoa salad with black beans, corn, avocado, and a lime vinaigrette provides a fresh and nutritious side.
  • Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw offers a cool and crunchy contrast to the warm kabobs.
  • Garden Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette keeps it fresh and light.
• Grilled Vegetables:
  • Grilled Corn on the Cob: A summer barbecue staple that pairs perfectly with kabobs.
  • Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus spears add a touch of green and freshness.
  • Grilled Zucchini and Squash: Marinated and grilled zucchini and yellow squash offer a healthy and flavorful side.
• Potatoes:
  • Grilled Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges grilled alongside the kabobs are a hearty and satisfying side.
  • Potato Salad: Classic potato salad, whether creamy or German-style, is a great BBQ accompaniment.
  • Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or air-fried sweet potato fries offer a slightly sweet and healthier alternative to regular fries.

Serving Styles:

• On Skewers: Serve the kabobs directly on the skewers for a casual and fun presentation.
• Off the Skewers: Remove the cooked ingredients from the skewers and serve them over rice or salad for easier eating, especially for children.
• In Wraps or Pitas: Slice the grilled chicken and vegetables and stuff them into warm pita bread or tortillas with a dollop of yogurt sauce or hummus for a delicious kabob wrap or pita pocket.
• Kabob Bowls: Create vibrant kabob bowls by placing a bed of rice or quinoa in a bowl and topping it with the grilled kabob ingredients, along with your favorite toppings like avocado, black beans, corn, salsa, or a drizzle of lime crema.

Sauces and Dips:

• Extra BBQ Sauce: Serve extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
• Pineapple Salsa: A fresh pineapple salsa with red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice adds a zesty and refreshing element.
• Mango Salsa: Similar to pineapple salsa, mango salsa offers a sweet and tropical twist.
• Yogurt Sauce: A cooling yogurt sauce with cucumber, mint, and garlic provides a refreshing contrast to the BBQ flavors.
• Honey Mustard: A classic honey mustard sauce is always a crowd-pleaser for dipping chicken.

Additional Tips

To ensure your BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are absolutely perfect every time, here are five additional tips:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: While it might be tempting to pack as much onto each skewer as possible, resist the urge to overcrowd. Leaving a little space between the pieces allows heat to circulate evenly, ensuring that everything cooks through properly and gets nice grill marks. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than grilling, resulting in less flavorful and less visually appealing kabobs.
2. Marinate in the Refrigerator: Always marinate chicken in the refrigerator, not at room temperature. Refrigeration slows down bacterial growth and keeps the chicken safe while it absorbs the marinade flavors. Make sure your bowl or container is tightly covered to prevent cross-contamination and keep the chicken fresh.
3. Control the Heat: Grilling over medium heat is key to perfectly cooked kabobs. High heat can char the outside of the chicken and vegetables before the inside is cooked through, while low heat can result in dry chicken. Medium heat allows for even cooking and beautiful caramelization. If your grill has hot spots, rotate the kabobs frequently to ensure even cooking.
4. Don’t Forget to Baste: Basting the kabobs with extra BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling adds an extra layer of flavor and creates a delicious caramelized glaze. This step is optional but highly recommended for enhancing the BBQ flavor and visual appeal of the kabobs. Be careful not to baste too early, as the sugars in the BBQ sauce can burn if exposed to high heat for too long.
5. Rest the Kabobs After Grilling: Just like with any grilled meat, allowing the BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs to rest for a few minutes after grilling is crucial for juicy and tender results. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and moist bite. Cover the kabobs loosely with foil and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen pineapple for these kabobs?

A: While fresh pineapple is highly recommended for its superior flavor and texture, you can use frozen pineapple chunks in a pinch. Make sure to thaw the frozen pineapple completely and drain off any excess liquid before threading them onto the skewers. Keep in mind that frozen pineapple may be slightly softer in texture after grilling compared to fresh pineapple.

Q2: Can I bake these kabobs in the oven instead of grilling?

A: Yes, you can bake these kabobs in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled kabobs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp, turning them halfway through. Basting with BBQ sauce during the last 5-7 minutes of baking is also recommended for added flavor. While baking won’t give you the same smoky char as grilling, it’s a convenient alternative, especially in colder months or if you don’t have access to a grill.

Q3: What other vegetables can I add to these kabobs?

A: You can customize these kabobs with a variety of other vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Some great additions include:

• Green Bell Peppers: Adds a slightly different flavor profile compared to red bell peppers.
• Yellow Bell Peppers: For more color variation and a sweeter taste.
• Zucchini or Yellow Squash: Adds a tender and mild flavor.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Adds bursts of juicy sweetness.
• Mushrooms: Adds an earthy and savory element.
• Onion (White or Yellow): In addition to or instead of red onion.

Q4: What if I don’t have BBQ sauce? Can I make my own or use a substitute?

A: If you don’t have BBQ sauce, you can certainly make a simple homemade version. A basic BBQ sauce can be made with ketchup, vinegar (like apple cider vinegar or white vinegar), brown sugar or molasses, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. There are many recipes available online for homemade BBQ sauce. Alternatively, you can use a different type of sauce for marinating and grilling, such as teriyaki sauce for an Asian-inspired twist, or a honey mustard glaze for a sweeter and tangier flavor.

Q5: How long do leftover BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs last, and how should I store them?

A: Leftover BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can gently warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through. Microwaving is also an option for quick reheating, but may slightly affect the texture. It’s best to remove the ingredients from the skewers before reheating for more even warming. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!

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