Summer is synonymous with sunshine, laughter, and the irresistible aroma of food sizzling on the grill. One recipe that checks every box on the flavor, fun, and family-favorite list is BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs. Packed with smoky barbecue flavor, juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and vibrant vegetables, these kabobs are a go-to for anyone craving a crowd-pleasing grilled dinner.
Whether you’re planning a weekend cookout, an intimate dinner under the stars, or looking for a new favorite among easy summer grilling recipes, this kabob recipe offers a delicious twist that elevates your summer menu. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the best chicken pineapple kabobs on the grill!
🌴 Why You’ll Fall in Love with BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
✨ Bursting with Flavor
These kabobs blend the tangy sweetness of fresh pineapple with the smoky, savory depth of BBQ-marinated chicken. Add a little char from the grill and you’ve got an unbeatable combo.
✨ Quick and Easy to Make
With a short marinating time and a quick grilling process, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute BBQ parties.
✨ Nutrient-Packed
Colorful bell peppers, onions, and pineapple make this dish not only a feast for the palate but also a nutritious option loaded with antioxidants and vitamins.
✨ Kid- and Crowd-Friendly
Everyone loves food on a stick! Whether you serve them as a main or appetizer, these kabobs are always a hit—especially with dipping sauces and sides.
🛒 Ingredients for BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
You’ll need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (choose smoky, sweet, or spicy depending on your flavor preference)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
For the Skewers:
- 1 ripe pineapple, peeled and cubed into chunks
- 1 large red bell pepper, chopped into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 red onion, sliced into large wedges
- Optional: cooked bacon strips (for Hawaiian twist)
- Optional: cherry tomatoes or zucchini slices
- Metal or soaked wooden skewers
👨🍳 How to Make BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients. Add the chicken cubes and toss until well-coated. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (ideally 3–4 hours). This infuses the meat with flavor and helps it stay juicy while grilling.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t skip the honey—it helps create a nice caramelized crust when grilled.
Step 2: Prepare the Grill and Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F–400°F or 190°C–200°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
While the grill heats, assemble your skewers. Alternate chicken, pineapple chunks, bell pepper pieces, and onion wedges. If using bacon, wrap it around the chicken pieces before skewering.
🔥 Double Skewer Tip: Use two skewers for each kabob to prevent pieces from rotating during grilling.
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
Place skewers on the grill and cook for 12–15 minutes, turning every 3–4 minutes for even charring. Baste with extra BBQ sauce during the last few minutes to intensify the flavor and create that sticky, saucy finish.
Check for doneness: Chicken should be firm, lightly charred, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Remove from the grill and let rest for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley, cilantro, or green onions. Serve hot with a side of rice, grilled veggies, or salad.
🍍 Bonus Tip: Squeeze a wedge of lime or serve with a tropical dipping sauce like pineapple salsa or chili-lime yogurt for a zesty twist!
🍽️ What to Serve with Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
These kabobs are the star of any BBQ spread, but here are some tasty sides and sauces to complement them:
Tropical-Inspired Sides:
- Coconut rice or pineapple fried rice
- Grilled corn on the cob with cilantro-lime butter
- Tropical coleslaw with mango and cabbage
- Cucumber yogurt salad or tzatziki for a refreshing contrast
Sauces for Dipping:
- Spicy mayo
- Sriracha-lime aioli
- Teriyaki glaze
- Pineapple chutney
🥓 Variations & Recipe Twists
Here are some creative ways to make this recipe your own:
🔸 Hawaiian Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs
Wrap each chicken piece in half a strip of bacon before grilling for the ultimate sweet-savory-smoky combo.
🔸 Honey Garlic Pineapple Chicken Skewers
Swap out BBQ sauce for a homemade honey-garlic sauce with soy, garlic, ginger, and honey.
🔸 Korean Chicken Bao Skewers
Marinate the chicken in gochujang and soy, then skewer with kimchi pineapple chunks and serve in steamed bao buns for a fusion twist!
🔸 Vegetarian Option
Substitute chicken with extra-firm tofu or halloumi cheese. Use the same marinade and follow the same grilling instructions.
🧊 Meal Prep, Storage & Leftovers
✅ Make-Ahead:
- Marinate the chicken the night before for deeper flavor.
- Assemble skewers and keep covered in the fridge up to 12 hours in advance.
✅ Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a grill pan, oven, or air fryer for best texture.
✅ Freezing:
- Marinated raw chicken can be frozen up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before skewering.
🥗 Nutritional Benefits
These kabobs are a wholesome and satisfying dish:
- High in Protein: Lean chicken breast is an excellent source of protein.
- Rich in Vitamin C: Thanks to bell peppers and pineapple.
- Low in Carbs: Great for low-carb or balanced diets when paired with veggie sides.
🎉 When to Make These Kabobs
BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are ideal for:
- Summer BBQs
- Family dinners
- Meal prep lunches
- Potlucks and cookouts
- Holiday weekends (Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day)
🔖 Recipe Summary
| Recipe Name | BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 12–15 minutes |
| Marinate Time | 1–4 hours |
| Total Time | ~1.5 hours |
| Servings | 4–6 people |
| Difficulty | Easy |
📍 Save, Share & Grill On!
If you’ve been looking for the perfect grilled kabob recipe that’s sweet, savory, and summery all at once, BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are it. These skewers bring together everything you love about grilling season: bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a little bit of tropical fun. Ideal for all levels of cooks and grillers, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your warm-weather meal rotation.
So go ahead—light the grill, grab your skewers, and make every summer bite count.
