BBQ Chicken Pineapple Kebabs

There's something irresistible about the combination of smoky grilled chicken, caramelized pineapple, and tender red onion all brushed with sweet BBQ sauce. These BBQ Chicken Pineapple Kebabs bring together bold flavors and vibrant colors that make them the star of any backyard cookout or weeknight dinner. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just a few fresh ingredients, a quick marinade, and a hot grill are all you need to create skewers that are juicy, flavorful, and absolutely stunning on the plate.

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The secret to perfect kebabs is in the marinade. By coating the chicken cubes in BBQ sauce mixed with olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, you infuse every bite with deep, smoky flavor. The pineapple adds a sweet, tropical note that balances the savory elements, while the red onion brings a slight sharpness that mellows beautifully on the grill. Threading them onto skewers not only makes for easy cooking and serving, but also creates those gorgeous grill marks and caramelized edges that make kebabs so appealing.

Ingredients

• 500 g (1.1 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) cubes
• 120 ml (½ cup) BBQ sauce, plus extra for brushing
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 medium red onion, peeled and cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) pieces
• 1 medium pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) chunks
• 8 wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine chicken cubes, olive oil, 120 ml BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for extra flavor).

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C/400°F).

Step 3: Thread the Skewers

Thread chicken, pineapple, and red onion alternately onto skewers, starting and ending with chicken pieces for stability.

Step 4: Grill the Kebabs

Place skewers on the grill. Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning every 3–4 minutes and brushing with extra BBQ sauce, until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove from grill, rest for 2 minutes, and serve warm with additional BBQ sauce if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

If using wooden skewers, don't skip the soaking step—this prevents them from burning on the grill. When cutting your chicken, pineapple, and onion, aim for uniform 2.5 cm pieces so everything cooks evenly. For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. Make sure your grill is properly preheated to medium-high heat before adding the skewers; this ensures you get those beautiful char marks and prevents sticking. Keep a small bowl of extra BBQ sauce nearby for brushing during grilling—this creates a glossy, flavorful glaze on the finished kebabs.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Swap chicken for shrimp for a quicker-cooking seafood option, or use tofu or halloumi for a vegetarian twist. Add colorful bell peppers or zucchini chunks to the skewers for extra vegetables and nutrition. For a spicier version, stir chili flakes or cayenne pepper into the marinade. You can also experiment with different BBQ sauce styles—try a tangy Carolina mustard sauce, a sweet Kansas City style, or a spicy chipotle BBQ for different flavor profiles.

Serviervorschläge

These kebabs shine as the centerpiece of a summer meal. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the BBQ sauce. Grilled corn on the cob makes a perfect companion, as does fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up any extra sauce. For a complete outdoor feast, add coleslaw, baked beans, or grilled vegetables. Don't forget to provide extra BBQ sauce on the side for those who want an extra kick of flavor. These kebabs are also fantastic for meal prep—store leftovers in the refrigerator and enjoy them cold in salads or wraps the next day.

Pin Recipe

Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for an easy weeknight dinner with wow factor, these BBQ Chicken Pineapple Kebabs deliver on all fronts. The combination of tender, smoky chicken, sweet caramelized pineapple, and perfectly charred red onion creates a harmony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With just 32 minutes from prep to plate and minimal cleanup, this recipe proves that impressive meals don't have to be complicated. Fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy one of summer's most satisfying dishes.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long should the chicken marinate for best flavor?

Marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes enhances the flavor, but marinating up to 2 hours provides a deeper taste.

→ What is the ideal grill temperature for these skewers?

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 200°C (400°F), to cook evenly and achieve slight charring.

→ Can other vegetables be added to these skewers?

Yes, bell peppers or zucchini can be added for more variety and color alongside the pineapple and onion.

→ How can I prevent skewers from burning during grilling?

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to minimize burning.

→ Are there alternatives to chicken for this dish?

Chicken can be replaced with shrimp, tofu, or halloumi to suit different preferences or dietary needs.