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This BBQ pineapple chicken kabobs recipe brings together the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. The tender chicken chunks marinated in a delicious barbecue teriyaki sauce pair beautifully with fresh pineapple, creating a mouthwatering combination that's impossible to resist.
I first made these kabobs for a family reunion, and they disappeared within minutes. My nephew, who normally avoids anything with fruit, devoured three skewers and asked for the recipe to take home to his mom.
Ingredients
- Barbecue sauce: creates the sweet and tangy base for the marinade; use a quality brand for best results
- Teriyaki sauce: adds umami depth and Asian-inspired flavor; opt for a less salty variety if possible
- Fresh garlic cloves: provide essential aromatic flavor; always use fresh instead of jarred for vibrant taste
- Freshly grated ginger: gives a warm spicy note that complements the pineapple perfectly
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: ensure tender juicy results; choose organic if possible
- Fresh pineapple chunks: offer natural sweetness and caramelize beautifully on the grill
- Red bell pepper: adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness; select firm peppers with glossy skin
- Sweet onion: provides savory balance and mellows when grilled; Vidalia onions work exceptionally well
- Canola oil: helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning; look for cold-pressed varieties
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: enhance all the flavors; use freshly ground pepper for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the marinade:
- Combine barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger in a medium bowl until well blended. This marinade serves double duty as both the chicken soaking mixture and final glaze, so be sure to reserve half a cup before adding the chicken.
- Marinate the chicken:
- Place chicken chunks in a large zipper bag or bowl and pour in the marinade, saving the reserved portion. Let the chicken soak for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight. The longer marinating time allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in more flavorful chicken.
- Prepare the skewers:
- Drain the marinated chicken and discard the used marinade. Alternately thread chicken, pineapple chunks, bell pepper, and onion pieces onto skewers, creating a colorful pattern. Brush the assembled kabobs with canola oil and season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook the skewers on a preheated medium heat grill, turning occasionally, until chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F, about 10 minutes. The vegetables and pineapple will develop beautiful grill marks and slight caramelization.
- Apply the glaze:
- Brush the reserved marinade over the cooked kabobs and grill for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. This final glazing step adds an irresistible shine and intensifies the flavor, creating a delicious caramelized finish.
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My favorite part of this recipe is the magical transformation that happens to the pineapple when it hits the grill. The natural sugars caramelize, creating these incredible sweet spots that contrast beautifully with the savory barbecue flavors. My family fights over the pineapple pieces every single time.
Serving Suggestions
These vibrant kabobs pair wonderfully with coconut rice, which complements the tropical pineapple flavor. For a complete meal I like to serve them with a simple green salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. The acidity of the salad balances the rich flavors of the kabobs perfectly. For an impressive presentation, remove everything from the skewers and arrange on a large platter over a bed of rice, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Make Ahead Options
You can assemble these kabobs completely up to 24 hours before cooking. Keep them covered in the refrigerator on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The marinade actually works better with extended time, making this a perfect prepare-ahead meal for entertaining. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them well before assembly to prevent burning during grilling.
Ingredient Substitutions
Don't worry if you don't have every ingredient on hand. Canned pineapple chunks can replace fresh; just be sure to drain them well. Chicken thighs make an excellent substitute for breast meat, offering more moisture and flavor. For a vegetarian version, try firm tofu or hearty mushrooms like portobello in place of chicken, adjusting cooking time accordingly. Bottled minced garlic and ginger paste can save time, though the flavor will be slightly less vibrant than fresh.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but for best results, allow it to sit overnight or up to 8 hours.
- → What type of barbecue sauce works best?
A smoky or sweet barbecue sauce pairs wonderfully with the teriyaki flavor for these kabobs.
- → What can I use instead of fresh pineapple?
If fresh pineapple isn't available, canned pineapple chunks will work as a substitute. Be sure to drain them well.
- → What grill temperature should I use?
Preheat your grill to medium heat for even cooking and to prevent burning.
- → How can I tell when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or when the juices run clear.