BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe

There is something absolutely joyful about BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs that makes them an instant crowd-pleaser. Juicy, tender chicken chunks marinated in tangy BBQ sauce, perfectly paired with the natural sweetness and slight char of fresh pineapple, all threaded onto skewers with vibrant bell peppers. It’s a mouthwatering combination that’s as colorful on the plate as it is bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re firing up the grill on a warm summer evening or simply craving a fresh twist on classic kabobs, these BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs deliver a delicious adventure for your taste buds and a cheerful vibe for any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are deliciously simple yet essential to capturing the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory in your BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs. Each one plays a key role, from tender chicken to the fresh brightness of pineapple and red bell pepper, all enhanced by a smoky BBQ sauce and the subtle richness of avocado oil.

• Chicken Breast: Use organic pasture-raised chicken for the best flavor and cut into 1-inch cubes for even grilling.
• Fresh Pineapple: Opt for ripe, fresh pineapple over canned for juicy sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
• BBQ Sauce: Choose a flavorful BBQ sauce; I love Primal Kitchen’s Mango Jalapeño BBQ Sauce for its spicy-sweet kick that pairs perfectly with pineapple.
• Red Bell Pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color, boosting the kabobs with extra Vitamin C.
• Sea Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that let the natural flavors shine through.
• Avocado Oil: Ideal for grilling because of its high smoke point, it helps keep everything juicy and prevents sticking.

How to Make BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Season generously with sea salt and fresh ground pepper, then toss the chicken in about ¼ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. This marinade not only infuses the chicken with incredible flavor but also helps keep it juicy on the grill. Let it rest for up to 30 minutes to soak in all those delicious flavors.

Step 2: Prep the Pineapple and Peppers

While the chicken marinates, chop fresh pineapple and red bell peppers into 1-inch pieces that match the size of the chicken cubes. Drizzle these vibrant chunks with a little avocado oil, sprinkle them lightly with salt and pepper, and set them aside. These colorful veggies and fruit add irresistible sweetness and a little smoky char when grilled.

Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs

Thread your skewers by alternating the chicken, pineapple, and red pepper pieces. Leaving a small gap between each piece is key, allowing the heat to circulate and cook everything evenly. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for about 10 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

Step 4: Grill with Love

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and brush it with avocado oil to prevent sticking. Place the kabobs on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, turning gently for those gorgeous grill marks and caramelization. While grilling, baste the kabobs with fresh BBQ sauce for a glossy, flavor-packed finish. The chicken should be cooked through, tender, and full of that smoky-sweet goodness.

How to Serve BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Garnishes

For an extra pop of freshness and color, sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro or green onions on top just before serving. A light squeeze of lime juice adds brightness that perfectly cuts through the BBQ sauce’s richness and complements the pineapple’s sweetness.

Side Dishes

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are wonderfully versatile with sides. Serve them alongside fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the drippings, a crisp garden salad for a refreshing bite, or creamy potato salad to balance the smokiness. Each pairing creates a more complete and satisfying meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking to impress, lay the kabobs over a bed of quinoa or couscous topped with toasted nuts and fresh herbs. You can also serve them inside warm pita pockets with a dollop of cool yogurt sauce or ranch dressing for a fun handheld meal. These options add layers of texture and flavor, making your BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs a memorable feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your kabobs, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best flavor and texture, consume within 3 days. To prevent sogginess, consider removing the ingredients from the skewers before storing.

Freezing

While fresh is always best, you can freeze cooked kabob ingredients separately to retain flavor. Freeze cooked chicken and veggies individually in sealed bags or containers, but avoid freezing assembled raw kabobs as the pineapple’s moisture can affect texture upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat your BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs gently to keep them juicy. The oven set at 275 degrees for 5 to 10 minutes works beautifully, or pop them back on a low-heat grill to warm through with added smoky flavor. Avoid microwaving to maintain the grilled charm and prevent toughness.

FAQs

Can I prepare the Hawaiian pineapple chicken kabobs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and prep the pineapple and peppers early too. Just assemble the kabobs right before grilling to prevent sogginess and ensure everything stays fresh and vibrant.

Can I cook these kabobs in the oven?

Yes, if a grill is not available, you can roast the kabobs in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Finish under the broiler for a few minutes at the end to mimic that grilled char.

What if I don’t have avocado oil? What can I use instead?

Olive oil can be substituted, but keep in mind it has a lower smoke point and can burn more easily on high heat grills. Grapeseed or sunflower oil are also good high smoke point alternatives.

Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and add a richer flavor to the kabobs. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.

Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?

For a vegetarian twist, swap out the chicken for firm cubes of tofu, tempeh, or hearty vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms. Use your favorite BBQ sauce and grill as usual for a tasty meat-free meal.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend these BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs enough. Their harmonious blend of smoky, tangy, sweet, and savory flavors is pure magic on a skewer. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or an impromptu backyard gathering, this recipe brings a warm, joyful touch to any occasion. Grab your skewers, fire up the grill, and get ready for a dish that’s absolutely bursting with deliciousness!

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