Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. They offer a juicier texture and richer flavor, making them a great alternative for BBQ kabobs.

Can I make BBQ chicken kabobs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prep the skewers a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill.

Can I bake these chicken kabobs in the oven?

Yes. Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake the kabobs on a lined baking sheet for 18–20 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

Are BBQ pineapple chicken kabobs healthy?

Yes, they are a healthy option, especially when made with lean chicken breast, fresh veggies, and a moderate amount of BBQ sauce. They're also low in carbs and high in protein.

How long do leftover chicken kabobs last in the fridge?

Leftover chicken kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving.

DINNER IDEAS LUNCH

Chicken Kabobs Recipe for Grilling | Easy BBQ Ideas

Name: BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes; 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks; 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1/2 red onion, cut into thick slices; 1/3 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for brushing); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; Metal or soaked wooden skewers

by Clara Bennett

10 de July de 2025

Facebook

Juicy chicken kabobs with sweet and smoky BBQ glaze

Jump to Recipe

Chicken Kabobs are one of my favorite things to throw on the grill—especially when I want something quick, colorful, and packed with flavor. I created these sweet and smoky BBQ pineapple chicken skewers after a spontaneous summer cookout where I mixed fresh pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and tender marinated chicken. The glaze—made with BBQ sauce, honey, and a hint of garlic—caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving every bite that perfect sticky-sweet char. My style is all about bold, fresh ingredients that come together easily, and these family-friendly pineapple chicken kabobs for backyard BBQs hit the mark every time. Whether you’re planning meal prep for grilling season or need a healthy grilled chicken kabobs with pineapple and veggies recipe for a weekend gathering, this one’s a keeper.

Let’s get cooking!

❤️ Why You’ll Love These BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

✅ Only 30 minutes to make – perfect for busy nights
✅ Sweet and smoky glaze that’s family-friendly
✅ Colorful and vibrant presentation for parties

✅ Low-carb and healthy – ideal for balanced meals
✅ Perfect for meal prep or backyard BBQs
✅ Easy BBQ chicken kabobs with honey glaze and fresh pineapple

✅ Hawaiian-style BBQ pineapple chicken kabobs for summer

Ingredients for BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Essential Ingredients:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
2 cups fresh pineapple chunks

1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
1/2 red onion, cut into thick slices

1/3 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for brushing)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and black pepper to taste
Metal or soaked wooden skewers

Ingredient Swaps & Tips:

Low-carb? Use sugar-free BBQ sauce.

Gluten-free? Substitute tamari for soy sauce.
No fresh pineapple? Use canned chunks, but drain well.
Add more veggies like zucchini or cherry tomatoes!

Grilled pineapple chicken skewers glazed with BBQ sauce — Colorful chicken skewers packed with juicy pineapple and bell peppers

How to Make BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together:

1/3 cup BBQ sauce
2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt & pepper

This sweet and savory marinade forms the base of our flavor-packed kabobs!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add chicken cubes to the marinade.
Toss until evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread chicken, pineapple, bell peppers, and red onion onto skewers.
Alternate for color and flavor.

👉 Pro Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 4: Grill the Kabobs

Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Grill kabobs for 10–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes.
Brush with extra BBQ sauce during the last few minutes for a glossy finish.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Serve hot with extra dipping sauce or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. These juicy BBQ chicken pineapple kabobs with garlic sauce will be a hit every time!

Pro Tips for Making the Best BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

🕒 Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken the night before and assemble just before grilling.
🧄 What’s the secret to juicy skewers?
Don’t overcook! Chicken is done at 165°F – use a thermometer for perfect results.

🍯 Want extra sweetness?
Add more honey or a splash of pineapple juice to the marinade.
🧅 Add variety:
Try BBQ pineapple chicken skewers with red onion and zucchini for a veggie-packed twist.
🍍 Oven-baked option:
No grill? Bake in a 425°F oven for 18–20 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

Best Ways to Serve BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Over a bed of jasmine or coconut rice
With a fresh cucumber salad or coleslaw
On a platter with grilled corn and sweet potato wedges

Wrapped in lettuce cups for a low-carb option
With a side of teriyaki dipping sauce for added flair

Perfect pairings:

Try with our Grilled Veggie Platter
Pair with Summer Peach Lemonade

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 310 kcal

Protein: 28g
Carbs: 14g
Fat: 15g

Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g

Healthy grilled chicken kabobs with pineapple and veggies that support a balanced diet!

Storage & Leftovers

How long does BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs last in the fridge?
➡️ Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze them?
➡️ Yes! Freeze cooked kabobs in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating tips:
➡️ Microwave with a splash of water, or reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.

Great for meal prep:
➡️ These BBQ pineapple chicken kabobs meal prep for grilling season are a top pick for weekly lunches.

FAQs Chicken Kabobs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Thighs are juicier and add even more flavor.

Q: What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
A: Choose a thicker, smoky BBQ sauce or try a homemade version for best results.

Q: Are these kabobs keto-friendly?
A: Yes—use low-sugar BBQ sauce and go easy on the pineapple.

Q: Can I make these in the oven?
A: Absolutely! See the oven-baked BBQ pineapple chicken skewers with rice version above.

Close-up of summer chicken kabobs with red peppers and pineapple — These BBQ chicken kabobs are loaded with bold, tropical flavor

More Tasty Ideas – Try These Next!

If you love these BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs, you’ll also enjoy:

Final Thoughts

Now you know how to make the best BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs at home! With their sweet and smoky glaze, juicy chicken, and tropical pineapple twist, they’re perfect for:

Family dinners
Summer BBQs

Healthy meal prep
Hawaiian-themed parties

🍍 Give this sweet and smoky BBQ pineapple chicken skewers recipe a try and let us know in the comments:
What’s your favorite ingredient to add to kabobs?

Don’t forget to share this recipe on Pinterest or Facebook and tag us when you make it!

Chicken Kabobs Recipe for Grilling | Easy BBQ Ideas

❤️ Why You’ll Love These BBQ Pineapple Chicken Kabobs