Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

A burst of juicy pineapple and tender chicken sizzling on the grill is the perfect way to usher in warm weather. Pineapple Chicken Kabobs come together in under an hour and deliver a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. The marinade infuses the chicken with tangy goodness, ensuring every bite is a delight.

This recipe is perfect for backyard barbecues, family gatherings, or a quick weekday dinner. You can prep the kabobs a few hours in advance, making them a convenient option for busy evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of juicy pineapple and savory chicken creates a mouthwatering contrast.
• Grilling enhances the flavors, giving the kabobs a delicious smoky taste.
• Fresh vegetables add crunch and color, making each kabob visually appealing.
• The marinade is quick to prepare and adds depth to the dish.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients for a flavorful dish.

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 cup canned pineapple juice
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

For the Kabobs

• 3 cups cubed fresh pineapple
• 2 large bell peppers, assorted colors, chopped
• 1 large red onion, chopped

Note: Use fresh ginger for best flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken breast can be replaced with thighs.
• Fresh garlic can be substituted with garlic powder.
• Pineapple juice can be replaced with orange juice.
• Soy sauce can be swapped for tamari for a gluten-free option.

How to Make It

Here’s how to prepare Pineapple Chicken Kabobs in a few easy steps.

1. Whisk Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together reduced sodium soy sauce, pineapple juice, ketchup, dark brown sugar, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper.

2. Marinate Chicken

Place cubed chicken in a resealable bag or bowl; pour half the marinade over it and refrigerate for at least one hour.

3. Prepare Vegetables

While marinating, chop bell peppers and onion into desired sizes.

4. Soak Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.

5. Assemble Kabobs

Thread marinated chicken, pineapple cubes, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers alternately.

6. Preheat Grill

Preheat grill over medium-high heat; brush grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.

7. Grill Kabobs

Grill kabobs for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the chicken may become chewy.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Allow chicken to marinate for at least two hours for deeper flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked.
• Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for variety.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light salad for a refreshing meal.
• Serve alongside jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete dinner.
• Add a drizzle of sweet chili sauce for added spice and sweetness.