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This hearty BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs recipe transforms simple ingredients into a flavor-packed summer meal that brings tropical vibes to your dinner table. The sweet and tangy combination of pineapple with savory BBQ chicken creates a perfect balance that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
These kabobs have become my go-to entertaining dish every summer. I first served them at a backyard gathering where they disappeared faster than anything else on the table, and now my friends specifically request "those amazing pineapple chicken skewers" whenever they visit during grilling season.
Ingredients
- Barbecue sauce: Forms the sticky sweet base of the marinade that caramelizes beautifully
- Teriyaki sauce: Adds depth and umami flavor that complements the pineapple perfectly
- Fresh garlic and ginger: Provide aromatic complexity that elevates the entire dish
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Stay juicy and tender through the marination process
- Fresh pineapple chunks: Offer natural sweetness and slight acidity for perfect balance
- Red bell pepper: Adds vibrant color and slight crunch that contrasts with the chicken
- Sweet onion: Provides subtle flavor that mellows and caramelizes during grilling
- Canola oil: Prevents sticking and helps achieve beautiful grill marks
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the marinade:
- Combine barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger in a medium bowl. Make sure to reserve 1/2 cup of this magical mixture for basting later. The combination creates a complex sweet and savory foundation that will caramelize beautifully on the grill.
- Marinate the chicken:
- Place chicken chunks in a large zip-top bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Allow to marinate for at least 2 hours, though overnight yields the most tender and flavorful results. The acids and enzymes in the marinade work to both flavor and tenderize the chicken pieces.
- Assemble the skewers:
- After draining the chicken from the marinade, thread pieces of chicken, pineapple chunks, bell pepper and onion onto skewers in an alternating pattern. This not only creates visual appeal but ensures even cooking and flavor distribution throughout each skewer.
- Prepare for grilling:
- Brush the assembled skewers with canola oil to prevent sticking and season with salt and pepper. This simple step ensures proper caramelization and beautiful grill marks while preventing the kabobs from sticking to the grates.
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook kabobs over medium heat, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The chicken needs to reach an internal temperature of 165°F which typically takes about 10 minutes. Watch carefully as the sugar in the marinade can burn if heat is too high.
- Apply the finishing touch:
- During the final 1-2 minutes of cooking, brush the skewers with the reserved barbecue sauce mixture. This creates that glossy, sticky finish and adds an extra layer of flavor without the food safety concerns of using the original marinade.
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The first time I made these kabobs, I accidentally doubled the ginger and discovered it was the happy accident that made all the difference. That extra kick of spicy warmth balanced the sweetness perfectly and created what my family now calls "the magic marinade" which we use on everything from chicken to salmon.
Make-Ahead Tips
These kabobs are perfect for entertaining because nearly everything can be done ahead of time. Marinate the chicken overnight, and in the morning, you can even pre-assemble the skewers and keep them covered in the refrigerator. When guests arrive, simply fire up the grill and cook. The longest part of the process happens while you sleep!
Choosing the Right Pineapple
For the best flavor, choose a ripe pineapple that smells sweet at the stem end and has a slight give when pressed. If using pre-cut pineapple, drain excess juice before skewering to prevent the kabobs from becoming too wet on the grill. Fresh pineapple makes a world of difference compared to canned, as it caramelizes beautifully and has a firmer texture that holds up well to grilling.
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Serving Suggestions
These colorful skewers pair beautifully with coconut rice, which complements the tropical pineapple beautifully. For a complete meal, I often serve them alongside a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. To really embrace the Hawaiian inspiration, consider serving with macaroni salad or grilled vegetable skewers for a complete backyard barbecue experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but for the best flavor, let it marinate overnight, up to 8 hours.
- → What type of grill should I use?
You can use a gas or charcoal grill preheated to medium heat to achieve the best results for your kabobs.
- → How do I keep the chicken tender while grilling?
Cook the chicken over medium heat and turn the skewers occasionally. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F without overcooking.
- → Can I use canned pineapple?
Fresh pineapple is best for these kabobs, as it holds its shape and delivers a more vibrant flavor. However, canned pineapple chunks can be used in a pinch.
- → What can I serve with these kabobs?
These kabobs pair well with rice, a fresh salad, or even grilled corn on the cob for a complete meal.