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If you’re craving a vibrant and mouthwatering meal that captures the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors, then let me introduce you to this unforgettable BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe. Juicy chicken pieces marinated in a luscious blend of barbecue and teriyaki sauces, combined with fresh pineapple, red bell pepper, and sweet onion, all grilled to perfection—this dish bursts with color, texture, and flavor with every skewer. Whether it’s a laid-back weekend cookout or a simple weeknight dinner, these kabobs bring joy to the plate and smiles to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this dish is easier than you might think because each ingredient plays a crucial role in developing those signature flavors and exciting contrasts. From the tangy barbecue base to the refreshingly sweet pineapple, these elements come together to create a sensational grilling experience.
- Barbecue sauce: Acts as the smoky and tangy foundation for the marinade that amplifies the grilled taste.
- Teriyaki sauce: Adds a hint of sweetness and umami that perfectly complements the pineapple’s natural sugars.
- Garlic, minced: Provides a punch of aromatic sharpness that elevates the marinade.
- Freshly grated ginger: Brings a subtle, warm spice for depth and complexity.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes tender and juicy after marinating and grilling.
- Fresh pineapple chunks: Deliver a juicy burst of tropical sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory flavors.
- Red bell pepper: Adds vibrant color and a mild crunch that balances each bite.
- Sweet onion: Offers a natural sweetness and slight sharpness when caramelized on the grill.
- Canola oil: Helps prevent sticking and creates a beautifully charred exterior.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and seasonings in the dish.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a bit of subtle heat to round out the seasoning.
How to Make BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Begin by whisking together barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger in a medium bowl. This combination forms a bold, flavorful marinade that sets the tone for the kabobs. Be sure to reserve half a cup of this blend—you’ll use it later to glaze the kabobs during grilling.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the cubed chicken breasts into a gallon-size Ziploc bag or a large bowl. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, seal, and refrigerate for at least two hours. Marinating overnight is even better because the chicken absorbs all those delicious flavors, making every bite tender and irresistible. Remember to turn the chicken occasionally to ensure even coverage.
Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs
Once marinated, drain the chicken well and start threading it onto skewers, alternating with fresh pineapple chunks, red bell peppers, and sweet onion pieces. This alternating pattern not only looks stunning but also creates a delightful interplay of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Brush the kabobs lightly with canola oil, then season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Fire up your outdoor grill or grill pan to medium heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. This step is essential for creating those beautiful grill marks and locking in the juiciness of the chicken.
Step 5: Grill the Kabobs
Place your assembled kabobs onto the heated grill and cook them, turning occasionally, for about 10 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. During the last couple of minutes, brush on the reserved barbecue sauce mixture to add a shiny glaze and an extra layer of flavor that will really wow your taste buds.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the kabobs from the grill and get ready to impress. Serve immediately while they’re hot, juicy, and bursting with that signature sweet and smoky combination that makes this BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe a standout dish at any gathering.
How to Serve BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds add an elegant touch and a fresh aroma that perfectly contrasts with the grilled flavors. A wedge of lime on the side also brightens the palate and adds an inviting citrus zing.
Side Dishes
These kabobs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Think fluffy coconut rice, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, or even grilled corn on the cob. The sweet and savory notes of the kabobs complement fresh, light sides that keep the meal balanced and exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the kabobs over a bed of mixed greens or alongside grilled flatbreads with a drizzle of garlic yogurt sauce. You could even slice off the chicken and pineapple for serving as tacos topped with slaw and a squeeze of fresh lime—so many delicious options to make this BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe your own!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though they rarely last long!), store the kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping the components together helps retain their juicy, flavorful qualities.
Freezing
For longer storage, remove the chicken pieces from the skewers and freeze them separately in a freezer-safe bag or container. This allows you to thaw and cook fresh kabobs any time you want, preserving the delicious marinade and freshness.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the kabobs in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, or quickly grill them on medium heat to revive the beautiful char and smoky flavor. Avoid microwaving if possible—it can dry out the chicken and dull the vibrant flavors.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative because they stay juicy and tender during grilling. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Do I need to soak the wooden skewers before grilling?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring safe and easy handling.
Can this recipe be made indoors?
Definitely. Use a grill pan or broiler to cook the kabobs indoors. Just watch closely to achieve a nice char without overcooking.
Is it okay to marinate the chicken longer than 2 hours?
Yes! Marinating overnight intensifies the flavors and makes the chicken even more tender, but try not to exceed 24 hours to avoid altering the texture.
Can I substitute pineapple with another fruit?
You can experiment with fruits like mango or peaches for a different twist, but pineapple offers the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity that complements the BBQ and teriyaki marinade beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe is truly a joy to prepare and even more delightful to share. Its colorful presentation, lively flavors, and versatility make it a perfect go-to for outdoor cookouts or cozy dinners at home. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become one of your favorite easy grilling dishes. So grab those skewers, gather your ingredients, and get ready for a delicious adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds!
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BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
These BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are a delightful combination of tender marinated chicken, sweet pineapple, and vibrant bell peppers and onions, grilled to perfection with a flavorful barbecue-teriyaki sauce. Ideal for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner, these kabobs offer a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors with a delicious smoky finish.
Ingredients
Marinade
- â…” cup barbecue sauce
- â…” cup teriyaki sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
Main Ingredients
- 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, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger until well combined. Reserve 1/2 cup of this mixture and set it aside for glazing later.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken chunks in a gallon-size Ziploc bag or a large bowl. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, seal the bag or cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight. Turn the chicken occasionally to ensure even marination.
- Assemble the Kabobs: Drain the chicken from the marinade. Thread the marinated chicken pieces alternately with pineapple chunks, red bell pepper pieces, and sweet onion pieces onto skewers for a colorful and flavorful combination. Brush the kabobs lightly with canola oil, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat an outdoor grill or grill pan to medium heat. Clean and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Kabobs: Place the kabobs on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. During the last 1-2 minutes, brush the kabobs with the reserved barbecue sauce mixture to add extra glaze and flavor.
- Serve: Remove the kabobs from the grill and serve immediately. Garnish as desired and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before assembling the kabobs helps prevent them from burning on the grill.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer a juicier option.
- For added heat, sprinkle some chili flakes in the marinade or serve with a spicy dipping sauce.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- These kabobs can also be cooked on a stovetop grill pan if an outdoor grill is not available.
