Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers: BBQ Recipe

Welcome to a taste of summer with these mouthwatering BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs! Juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and a medley of colorful veggies come together in perfect harmony on the grill, making this recipe a surefire hit at any backyard gathering or potluck. The caramelization of the fresh pineapple as it sizzles on the grill adds a burst of smoky sweetness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

I remember the first time I made these BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs for my neighbors—it instantly became a neighborhood favorite. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, and there’s something special about the excitement of assembling these kabobs with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or simply craving a taste of the season, these kabobs are a must-try for easy, flavorful grilling.

With the perfect blend of barbecue and teriyaki sauce, these kabobs offer a fusion of flavors that will transport your taste buds on a culinary journey. From marinating the chicken to grilling to perfection, every step of this recipe is designed to create a memorable dining experience. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs—it’s a recipe that’s bound to become a staple on your summer menu!

Quick Benefits

• Flavorful Fusion: Combines the best of American barbecue and Asian-inspired flavors for a unique taste experience.
• Versatile Options: Easily adaptable with substitutions like chicken thighs, tofu, or different veggies to suit various dietary preferences.
• Convenient Make-Ahead: Marinate in advance for enhanced flavors, prepare skewers ahead of time, and store leftovers for easy reheat options.
• Crowd-Pleasing Grilled Goodness: Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or simple family dinners, delivering juicy, caramelized goodness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers: BBQ Recipe Recipe

• Perfect for summer grilling cravings and easy entertaining, making it a crowd pleaser at backyard get-togethers.
• The combination of smoky sweet caramelized pineapple with juicy chicken is irresistible.
• Kids love helping to assemble the skewers, making it a fun activity for the whole family.
• The caramelization of fresh pineapple intensifies its sugars on the grill, adding a delightful flavor.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, and they stay moist and flavorful.
• Easily customizable with options to swap chicken for tofu or mushrooms and bell peppers for other veggies.
• Versatile serving options such as over coconut rice, with sesame noodle salad, or as mini skewer appetizers.
• A fusion of American barbecue and Asian-inspired flavors with the blend of barbecue and teriyaki sauces.
• Marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours ensures maximum flavor absorption.
• Bell peppers and sweet onions add a delightful crunch and sweetness to the dish.
• Pre-threading the skewers in advance and refrigerating makes it convenient for grilling later.
• Can be cooked on wooden skewers; remember to soak them to prevent burning.

Ingredients for Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers: BBQ Recipe

For the Marinade

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
• 160 millilitres teriyaki sauce
• 160 millilitres barbecue sauce

For the Skewers

• 320 grams fresh pineapple chunks
• 900 grams boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2.5 cm cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 4 cm pieces
• 1 sweet onion, cut into 4 cm pieces

For Grilling

• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Kosher salt, to taste

Pro Tips for Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers: BBQ Recipe

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken in the barbecue-teriyaki mix for at least 2 hours, up to 8 hours, to ensure the meat absorbs the delicious flavors. This step will make your kabobs incredibly tasty and juicy.

When assembling the kabobs, make sure to include bell peppers and sweet onions along with the pineapple and chicken. These ingredients provide a nice balance of crunch and sweetness that complements the other flavors perfectly.

To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F and that the juices run clear. This will guarantee that your chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.

How to Make Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers: BBQ Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Set aside 120 milliliters of the marinade for basting.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, combine chicken cubes with the marinade. Refrigerate for 2-8 hours, turning occasionally. Drain chicken before skewering.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Skewer marinated chicken, pineapple, red bell pepper, and onion in alternating order. Brush skewers with canola oil and season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Preheat grill to medium heat, around 175°C.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Place skewers on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 74°C, approximately 10 minutes.

Step 6: Baste and Finish

Brush skewers with the remaining marinade and grill for 1 to 2 minutes until caramelized.

Step 7: Serve

Place the skewers on a serving platter and serve promptly.

Storage Tips

After preparing BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The chicken remains moist, and the veggies maintain their texture well. If you plan to freeze the leftovers, it’s recommended to remove the pieces from the skewers first, then freeze them in a single layer. This method helps preserve the flavors and textures, allowing for easy reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave without becoming soggy.

For those looking to customize the dish, consider swapping boneless chicken thighs for chicken breasts for a richer flavor or using extra firm tofu cubes and portobello mushroom chunks for a vegetarian version. Additionally, you can switch out bell peppers for zucchini or baby corn to add variety to the kabobs. Whether served over coconut rice, with a chilled sesame noodle salad, or alongside grilled corn on the cob or a zesty cucumber salad, BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are a versatile dish suitable for various occasions, from summer gatherings to casual family dinners.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a different twist on this BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs recipe, consider swapping the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor and extra juiciness. You can also experiment with a vegetarian version by using extra firm tofu cubes or portobello mushroom chunks in place of the chicken, soaking up the delicious barbecue-teriyaki marinade just as well.

If you’re looking to vary the vegetables in the kabobs, try substituting the red bell peppers with zucchini or baby corn to introduce different colors and flavors to the skewers. These alternatives can bring a refreshing change to the recipe while still maintaining the harmony of sweet pineapple, savory chicken, and flavorful marinade. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs while keeping the essence of these grilled kabobs intact.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs, consider serving them with a side of coconut rice to add a tropical flair to your meal. The sweet and savory flavors of the kabobs will pair perfectly with the creamy coconut rice, creating a delightful contrast that will impress your guests. You can also sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes over the rice for added texture and flavor.

For a fun and interactive appetizer option, serve mini skewers of these BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs at your next party. Your guests will love the individual portions that are easy to grab and enjoy while mingling. To add a burst of freshness, consider serving a zesty cucumber salad on the side to balance out the smoky sweetness of the kabobs. This combination will be a hit at any gathering, leaving your guests craving more of these delicious kabobs.

FAQs for Grilled Pineapple Chicken Skewers: BBQ Recipe

Can I prepare the skewers in advance?

Yes—thread the skewers in advance and keep refrigerated until ready to grill for easy entertaining.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F and the juices run clear.

Can I use wooden skewers instead of metal skewers?

Either works; if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

How long should I marinate the chicken for?

Marinate chicken in the barbecue-teriyaki mix for at least 2 hours, up to 8 hours, for best flavor absorption.

Conclusion

As you wrap up your BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs grilling session, take a moment to savor the enticing aromas and vibrant colors that make this dish a true summer delight. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a cozy family dinner, these kabobs are sure to bring smiles all around.

Remember, the beauty of BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs lies not just in their scrumptious flavors but also in their versatility. Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences and dietary needs. From swapping chicken breasts for thighs to experimenting with different vegetables, the possibilities are endless. So go ahead, get creative, and make these kabobs your own signature dish at every gathering.

So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and let the magic of BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs transform any ordinary meal into a memorable culinary experience. Here’s to many more delightful moments shared over these delectable skewers – happy grilling!