Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe

There’s just something magical about Pineapple Chicken Kabobs sizzling on the grill—the sweet-tangy aroma, the vibrant colors, and those glossy, caramelized edges. This recipe is my go-to for family cookouts and laid-back summer gatherings, and I can’t wait to show you why it’ll become a favorite in your home too!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of classic, vibrant ingredients transform into such a festive, flavorful dish. Each element brings essential color, texture, or zing, turning simple prep into something truly celebratory.

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: The star of our kabobs! Choose fresh chicken for the best juicy texture—cut into big, hearty chunks so they stay moist on the grill.
• Fresh Pineapple: Don’t skimp on this one! Sweet, golden pineapple brings juicy sweetness and a beautiful caramelized crust as it grills.
• Bell Peppers (Assorted Colors): Red, yellow, or green, they add a pop of color and a gentle crunch to contrast the tender chicken.
• Red Onion: For a little sweetness and punch—plus those gorgeous purple edges that char to perfection.
• Olive Oil: Use for tossing the veggies and brushing the grill—keeps everything glossy and helps prevent sticking.
• Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning ensures every flavor pops.
• Wooden or Metal Skewers: Essential for threading, grilling, and of course, serving!
• Soy Sauce or Tamari: The base of the irresistible savory-sweet marinade; tamari keeps things gluten-free if needed.
• Pineapple Juice: Brightens up the marinade and basting sauce, amplifying the fruitiness.
• Ketchup: Adds a tangy tomato depth and helps the glaze caramelize.
• Dark Brown Sugar: For that deep, rich sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil & Sesame Oil: A blend for a silky, fragrant marinade.
• Minced Garlic & Fresh Ginger: These aromatics build layers of flavor and add zing you’ll notice in every bite.
• Cornstarch & Water: Mixed as a slurry to thicken the basting sauce for that shiny, sticky finish.

Variations

Don’t be afraid to mix things up! Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are endlessly adaptable, so you can tweak this recipe to match your cravings, fresh market finds, or dietary needs without missing a beat.

• Swap the Protein: Try boneless chicken thighs for even juicier kabobs, or use shrimp or firm tofu to create a pescatarian or vegetarian version.
• Add More Veggies: Thread on zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor—whatever is in season and grilling up beautifully.
• Go Spicy: Add a hit of sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy-sweet kabob everyone will remember.
• Low Sugar Option: Reduce the brown sugar or use a sugar-free alternative if you’re watching your sugar intake.

How to Make Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together your marinade ingredients—the soy sauce, pineapple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, oils, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Pour about half into a small jar to save for later (this will become your glossy basting sauce!). Toss the chicken cubes in the remaining marinade, seal them up in a zip-top bag, and let them chill in the fridge for at least an hour—up to three for extra juicy results.

Step 2: Prep the Skewers and Veggies

If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water while the chicken marinates—they’ll be less likely to burn on the grill. Meanwhile, chop pineapple, bell peppers, and onion into big, even pieces. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper so they’re ready to join the party.

Step 3: Thread the Kabobs

Thread your skewers with an alternating pattern of marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, bell pepper, and onion. There’s no wrong way, but mixing colors gives you that gorgeous, feast-for-the-eyes presentation. Be sure to leave a little space between each piece so everything grills evenly.

Step 4: Make the Basting Sauce

While the grill heats up, pour the reserved marinade into a saucepan. Whisk in a quick slurry of cornstarch and water, then simmer over medium-low until thick, glossy, and ready to brush on your kabobs for irresistible shine and flavor.

Step 5: Grill and Serve

Brush the grill with olive oil, lay out your skewers, and let them sizzle for 5-6 minutes before flipping. Brush the grilled side generously with basting sauce, cook another few minutes until the chicken is beautifully glazed and cooked through (165°F inside). Finish with one more brush of sauce, then pile onto a serving platter and bask in the praise!

How to Serve Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Garnishes

Finish your Pineapple Chicken Kabobs with a handful of chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for a pretty, herbal pop. For serious flavor, sprinkle on toasted sesame seeds or a quick squeeze of lime juice just before serving—you’ll be amazed by the aromatic boost!

Side Dishes

These kabobs pair beautifully with coconut rice, grilled corn, or a crisp green salad. Or serve them over fluffy quinoa or with a side of grilled flatbread to soak up any extra sauce—perfect for a backyard meal that feels both special and effortless.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your platter into a rainbow by arranging the Pineapple Chicken Kabobs in alternating rows by color. For parties, serve the kabobs standing upright in a wide vase or jar, or slide off the skewer and pile everything onto a bed of greens for a festive, family-style salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pineapple Chicken Kabobs will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If possible, remove the chicken and veggies from the skewers before storing for the easiest reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze the marinated (uncooked) chicken pieces for up to two months—just defrost overnight before threading onto skewers. Cooked kabobs can also be frozen, but the veggies and pineapple may lose some of their texture once thawed.

Reheating

Rewarm leftover kabobs in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or heat them gently in a covered skillet. For the best texture, avoid microwaving, which can make the chicken a bit rubbery.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like sharing a platter of Pineapple Chicken Kabobs with people you love—every colorful bite is a burst of sunshine and flavor! I hope this recipe becomes a happy staple in your home, and that your next cookout or weeknight dinner is a little brighter because of it.

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