Name: BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
Prep time: 2 h 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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 ½-inch pieces; 1 sweet onion, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces; 2 tablespoons canola oil; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are irresistibly delicious, with the perfect combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. The marinade of barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, garlic, and ginger infuses the chicken with a rich taste, while the pineapple adds a juicy sweetness that complements the smoky grilled veggies. These kabobs are not only quick and easy to prepare but also make for a fun and interactive meal, especially when served with your favorite sides like rice or a crisp salad. Perfect for a summer BBQ or any time you want a vibrant, flavorful dish!

Ingredients

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 ½-inch pieces

1 sweet onion, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces

2 tablespoons canola oil

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, garlic, and ginger. Set aside ½ cup of the sauce mixture to brush on the kabobs while grilling.

Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken chunks into a gallon-sized Ziploc bag or a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal the bag or cover the bowl. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours, turning occasionally to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.

Assemble the Kabobs: Drain the chicken from the marinade. Thread the chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, and onion onto skewers, alternating between the ingredients. Brush the kabobs with canola oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Grill the Kabobs: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the kabobs on the grill, cooking and turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 10 minutes.

Add the Glaze: During the last 1-2 minutes of grilling, brush the kabobs with the reserved barbecue sauce mixture to create a sticky, caramelized glaze.

Serve: Remove the kabobs from the grill and serve immediately, enjoying the smoky, sweet, and savory flavors.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 6 servings

Prep time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Total time: 2 hours 50 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with tofu or vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and eggplant for a vegetarian alternative.

Spicy Twist: Add a little hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.

Different Fruits: Substitute the pineapple with mango, peaches, or even grilled apples for a fun twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat the kabobs in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work perfectly for this recipe, offering more flavor and juiciness. Be sure to cook them to an internal temperature of 165°F.

2. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

3. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor, but marinating it for at least 2 hours will also provide plenty of flavor.

4. Can I bake the kabobs instead of grilling them?

Yes, you can bake the kabobs at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked.

5. How can I make these kabobs spicier?

To make them spicier, add some red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade or glaze.

6. Can I use frozen pineapple for this recipe?

Fresh pineapple is best for grilling, but you can use frozen pineapple if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before using it.

7. Can I use other vegetables for the kabobs?

Yes, you can substitute the bell pepper and onion with other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes.

8. Can I prepare the kabobs ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken and prep the skewers a few hours before grilling, but it’s best to assemble and cook the kabobs right before serving.

9. Can I cook the kabobs on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes, you can cook the kabobs in a grill pan on the stovetop over medium heat. Be sure to turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.

10. What sides go well with these kabobs?

These kabobs pair wonderfully with rice, a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or a creamy coleslaw.

Conclusion

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are the perfect summer dish, combining juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and smoky veggies all glazed with a tangy sauce. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, having a family dinner, or just craving something delicious and fun, these kabobs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion!