Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs

Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs are the perfect addition to your summer grilling lineup! This easy recipe balances the sweet and tangy flavors of pineapple with tender chicken and colorful vegetables. Ideal for backyard barbecues, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home, these kabobs are not only delicious but also visually appealing. With their vibrant colors and mouthwatering taste, they will surely impress your guests and become a staple in your grilling repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 45 minutes of prep time, you can have delicious kabobs ready to grill!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, and fresh ingredients creates a remarkable taste experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your kabobs with your favorite vegetables or substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variety.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for summer cookouts, birthday parties, or even weeknight dinners with family.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein from chicken and vitamins from fresh veggies, these kabobs are a nutritious choice.

Tools and Preparation

To make Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for holding all the ingredients together while grilling. They help ensure even cooking.
• Grill: Provides that delicious charred flavor that makes kabobs irresistible.
• Mixing bowl: Vital for combining marinades without making a mess.
• Basting brush: Allows you to apply marinade evenly without dipping into the bowl multiple times.

Ingredients

An easy grilling recipe for summer!

For the Kabobs

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into cubes)
• 2 small green peppers (cut into 1.5 inch squares)
• 2 small red peppers (cut into 1.5 inch squares)
• 1 red onion (cut into chunks)
• 2 cups pineapple chunks (canned or fresh both work)
• 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 3 tablespoons pineapple juice (use juice from can, or drippings from slicing fresh pineapple)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Assemble Kabobs

Thread the chicken cubes onto skewers, alternating with pieces of green peppers, red peppers, onion chunks, and pineapple pieces. Aim for an even distribution so each bite has a mix of flavors.

Step 2: Marinate

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, and soy sauce until well combined. Place the assembled kabobs in a shallow dish and brush them with about one-third of the marinade. Make sure not to dip the brush back into the marinade after brushing; use a spoon instead. Cover and marinate in the fridge for 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Grill

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the marinated kabobs on a lightly oiled grill surface. Grill for about 12-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender. Turn them often while brushing with the remaining marinade to enhance flavor during cooking.

Enjoy your Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs hot off the grill!

How to Serve Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs

Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the kabobs over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a filling meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair the kabobs with a crisp garden salad to add freshness and crunch.

Wrapped in Tortillas

• Create delicious wraps by placing the kabobs in warm tortillas with some additional veggies.

As Appetizers

• Cut the kabobs into smaller pieces and serve them as bite-sized appetizers for gatherings.

Drizzled with Extra BBQ Sauce

• Offer extra barbecue sauce on the side for those who love an extra kick of flavor.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley over the kabobs for added color and taste.

How to Perfect Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs

To ensure your Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken and veggies for up to 2 hours before grilling.
• Use Soaked Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
• Cut Uniform Pieces: Ensure all chicken and vegetable pieces are cut evenly for consistent cooking.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is preheated before adding kabobs; this helps achieve nice grill marks and even cooking.
• Turn Frequently: Rotate the kabobs every few minutes to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Best Side Dishes for Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs

Serving side dishes alongside your Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and corn can be grilled alongside your kabobs for a colorful platter.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn pairs wonderfully with savory BBQ flavors; grill it alongside the kabobs.
4. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad offers a hearty side that contrasts nicely with grilled flavors.
5. Quinoa Salad: A healthy quinoa salad with fresh herbs provides a nutritious option that complements the kabobs well.
6. Baked Beans: The sweet and smoky flavors of baked beans make them a classic side dish for any BBQ meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best kabobs.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to dry and bland kebabs. Always take time to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes for deeper flavor.
• Choosing the wrong skewers: Using wooden skewers without soaking them can lead to burning. Opt for metal skewers or soak wooden ones in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
• Crowding the skewers: Overpacking ingredients on the skewer prevents even cooking. Ensure there’s enough space between pieces for heat circulation.
• Not preheating the grill: Placing kabobs on a cold grill can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium heat before grilling.
• Ignoring cooking time: Overcooking or undercooking can ruin your kabobs. Monitor closely and use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs

• Freeze kabobs in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to 3 months.

Reheating Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kabobs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook kabobs, turning frequently until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs spicier?

You can add chili flakes or hot sauce to your marinade for some extra heat. Just adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I use other meats for my kabobs?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option while keeping the same marinade.

What barbecue sauce works best with Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs?

A sweet and tangy barbecue sauce complements the pineapple perfectly. Feel free to experiment with different flavors!

How long do I need to marinate Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs?

Marinating for at least 15-20 minutes is ideal. For best results, you can marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them perfect for summer grilling or any gathering. You can customize them by adding different vegetables or swapping out proteins based on your preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the burst of flavors that come from juicy chicken combined with sweet pineapple and vibrant veggies!

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Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs

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Pineapple BBQ Chicken Kabobs are a delightful summer favorite that combines juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and vibrant vegetables all grilled to perfection. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for backyard barbecues or cozy family dinners. With just 45 minutes of preparation time, you can create a visually stunning dish that bursts with flavor and impresses your guests. Customize these kabobs with your favorite veggies or alternative proteins for a versatile meal option. Whether served over rice or as appetizers, these kabobs are sure to become a staple in your grilling collection.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
• 2 small green peppers (cubed)
• 2 small red peppers (cubed)
• 1 red onion (chunked)
• 2 cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 3 tablespoons pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Instructions

1. Assemble the kabobs by threading chicken, peppers, onion, and pineapple onto skewers.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, and soy sauce. Brush one-third of the marinade on the kabobs and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium heat. Grill the kabobs for 12-15 minutes, turning frequently and basting with remaining marinade until chicken is cooked through.

• Author: Adriana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Marinate longer for deeper flavor—up to 2 hours if desired. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.