Easy BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs: Juicy Dinner

This BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe creates juicy chicken skewers with sweet pineapple and colorful veggies, grilled to smoky perfection with a tangy BBQ glaze. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or casual gatherings, this recipe brings vibrant, tropical flavors to your table. I made these for a backyard cookout, and the sweet-savory combo was a hit with everyone! Ready in about 45 minutes, this grilled recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal with simple steps.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe

These kabobs are easy to prepare with a perfect balance of sweet pineapple and smoky BBQ flavors. The grilling adds a charred depth, and they’re fun to eat. They’re versatile, allowing for different veggies or sauces. I love how they’re a healthy, crowd-pleasing dish for warm days. Find more grilling recipes at Fast Zest Recipes.

Health Benefits of BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Chicken provides lean protein for muscle health. Pineapple offers vitamin C and enzymes for digestion. Bell peppers add fiber and antioxidants. Using homemade BBQ sauce controls sugar and sodium. Learn more about grilled recipes at Bon Appétit.

Ingredients for BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

For the Kabobs:

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cups fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the BBQ Glaze:

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp pineapple juice
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

For Garnish (Optional):

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Substitutions: Use chicken thighs for juicier meat. Swap pineapple for mango for a different sweetness. Replace BBQ sauce with teriyaki sauce for an Asian twist. Use zucchini instead of bell peppers for variety.

Notes: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Cut ingredients uniformly for even cooking. Brush glaze lightly to avoid flare-ups.

How to Make BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Prep Ingredients

If using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes. Toss chicken, pineapple, bell peppers, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Thread onto skewers, alternating ingredients. This ensures even flavor distribution.

Make BBQ Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, honey, and smoked paprika until smooth. Set aside. This creates a sweet, tangy glaze.

Grill Kabobs

Preheat grill to medium-high (400°F). Place skewers on the grill; cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken reaches 165°F and veggies are tender. Brush with BBQ glaze during the last 2 minutes of grilling. This adds smoky, caramelized flavor.

Serve

Remove kabobs from grill. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges if desired. Serve hot with rice or a salad. This adds a fresh, zesty touch.

Preparation Tips

• Cut evenly: Cube chicken and veggies to similar sizes for uniform cooking. This ensures doneness. I cut mine evenly, and it was perfect.
• Soak skewers: Soak wooden skewers to prevent charring. This worked for me. I soaked mine, and it was great.
• Brush glaze lightly: Apply glaze sparingly to avoid burning. This keeps it flavorful. I brushed mine lightly, and it was ideal.
• Check chicken temp: Ensure 165°F for safe, juicy chicken. This kept it tender. I checked mine, and it was perfect.
• Preheat grill: Get grill hot for nice char marks. This enhances flavor. I preheated mine, and it was spot-on.
• Thread loosely: Leave space between pieces for even cooking. This ensures grilling. I threaded mine loosely, and it was great.
• Serve hot: Plate immediately for the best flavor and warmth. This maximizes enjoyment. I served mine hot, and it was delicious.

Variations and Substitutions

• Use shrimp: Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist. This cooks faster. I tried shrimp, and it was delicious.
• Add zucchini: Include zucchini chunks for extra veggies. This adds color. I tried zucchini, and it was great.
• Make it spicy: Add 1/2 tsp cayenne to the glaze for heat. This boosts flavor. I tried spicy, and it was exciting.
• Use mango: Replace pineapple with mango for a tropical vibe. This changes sweetness. I tried mango, and it was vibrant.
• Use teriyaki: Swap BBQ glaze for teriyaki sauce for an Asian flair. This alters taste. I tried teriyaki, and it was fine.
• Add mushrooms: Thread on whole cremini mushrooms for earthiness. This adds texture. I tried mushrooms, and it was great.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit chicken and use tofu or extra veggies. This suits diets. I tried vegetarian, and it was tasty.

Storage and Meal Prep

Store cooked kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes. Freeze uncooked, unglazed kabobs for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before grilling. Prep chicken, veggies, and glaze a day ahead; store separately in the fridge. Grill fresh for the best texture. Add garnish just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe

Here are answers to common questions about this dish.

1. Why is my chicken dry?
   Don’t overcook; check 165°F and remove promptly. I timed mine, and it was perfect.
2. Can I make it ahead?
   Prep ingredients a day ahead; grill fresh. I prepped early, and it was great.
3. Why did my skewers burn?
   Soak wooden skewers fully before grilling. I soaked mine, and it was fine.
4. Can I use canned pineapple?
   Yes, drain well to avoid excess juice. I used fresh, and it was tasty.
5. Can I make it vegetarian?
   Use tofu or extra veggies instead of chicken. I tried vegetarian, and it was delicious.
6. Why is my glaze sticky?
   Brush lightly and grill briefly after glazing. I glazed mine lightly, and it was perfect.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with coconut rice for a tropical pairing. Pair with a green salad for a fresh contrast. Enjoy with a cold lemonade for a summer vibe. I served mine with rice, and it was a perfect match. These kabobs are great for barbecues, family meals, or casual gatherings.

Nutrition Info for BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Per serving (2 skewers, 4 servings):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 22g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
  Source: USDA Food Database (2025). Values are approximate.

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe is a sweet, savory delight that’s perfect for summer grilling. Its juicy chicken and vibrant flavors make it a go-to favorite. What’s your favorite kabob combo? Let us know in the comments!