Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

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Juicy chunks of chicken and sweet pineapple come together in this summery delight that’s perfect for grilling season. Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are a celebration of simple, tropical flavor that satisfies both weeknight dinners and backyard BBQs. The caramelized edges of pineapple paired with the savory charred chicken make every bite burst with flavor.

This dish offers a wonderful balance of sweetness and umami, with the added crunch of colorful bell peppers. It feels indulgent but is actually light, making it a great option for those looking to eat well without skimping on taste. Whether served over rice, wrapped in flatbread, or enjoyed on their own, these kabobs are sure to win over any crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

They’re incredibly easy to prepare and ideal for meal prep or entertaining. The marinade uses pantry staples, while the skewers themselves are fun to assemble and even more fun to eat. They cook quickly, making them great for busy weeknights, yet they also look impressive on a plate.

This dish is also versatile. Want to go low-carb? Skip the rice and enjoy them with a crisp salad. Feeding kids? The sweetness of pineapple and colorful presentation make it a hit. Hosting a cookout? They’re made for the grill.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the top choice for Pineapple Chicken Kabobs. They stay juicy even when grilled and absorb the marinade beautifully. However, if you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts will also work—just be careful not to overcook them. Cut the chicken into evenly sized chunks to ensure they cook evenly and stay tender on the inside.

Ingredients for the Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

These kabobs are all about fresh, bold flavors and a marinade that brings everything together. The ingredient list is short, but each component plays a vital role in creating that signature sweet-savory balance.

• Chicken thighs
• Pineapple chunks
• Red bell pepper
• Green bell pepper
• Soy sauce
• Honey
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Sesame oil
• Lime juice
• Olive oil

The chicken thighs bring juicy, meaty texture perfect for grilling. Pineapple chunks add tropical sweetness and slight acidity that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Red and green bell peppers offer crunch and vibrant color. The soy sauce and honey in the marinade create a perfect sweet and salty base. Garlic and ginger give it that essential aromatic depth. Sesame oil adds a nutty hint, while lime juice brightens everything up. Lastly, olive oil keeps the marinade smooth and helps the chicken stay moist while cooking.

How To Make the Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Prep the Marinade

Whisk together the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, lime juice, and olive oil in a bowl. This fragrant mixture will infuse the chicken with flavor and help caramelize the edges during grilling.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized chunks and place them in a zip-top bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs

While the chicken marinates, soak your wooden skewers (if using) in water to prevent burning. Then thread chicken, pineapple chunks, red pepper, and green pepper onto the skewers, alternating for color and balance.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat the grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the edges are slightly charred.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the kabobs rest for a couple of minutes off the grill. Then serve them hot over rice, on flatbread, or just as they are with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or a squeeze of fresh lime.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Grilling kabobs may seem straightforward, but a few small missteps can affect the final result. One common mistake is not cutting the chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes. This can lead to uneven cooking, where some pieces are dry and others undercooked. Always aim for similar-sized chunks.

Another pitfall is rushing the marinating process. While 30 minutes will do in a pinch, giving the chicken more time helps it soak up the flavors fully. Also, resist the urge to crank up the grill to high heat—medium-high gives you that perfect char without drying out the meat or burning the sugar in the marinade.

Lastly, don’t forget to soak wooden skewers before grilling. It’s an easy step to overlook, but it prevents them from catching fire.

Serving and Storing Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

These kabobs serve 4 to 5 people generously, making them a perfect family dinner or a small gathering favorite. Serve them hot off the grill over a bed of jasmine rice, couscous, or even a fresh green salad. They also pair beautifully with grilled flatbreads or served taco-style in warm tortillas.

If you have leftovers, remove the chicken and veggies from the skewers before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them into a skillet over medium heat or microwave briefly. Avoid reheating on high, which can dry out the chicken.

What to Serve With Pineapple Chicken Kabobs?

Grilled Corn with Chili Lime Butter

The smoky sweetness of grilled corn complements the tangy kabobs, and the chili lime butter adds a punch of spice.

Coconut Rice

A subtle, creamy side that soaks up the kabob juices beautifully.

Cucumber Mint Salad

This crisp, refreshing salad cools the palate and adds a fresh herbaceous bite.

Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy, slightly sweet, and just the right amount of hearty.

Mango Salsa

Add a fruity, spicy dip on the side to layer even more tropical flavors.

Garlic Naan

Use this soft flatbread to scoop up any juicy bits left on your plate.

Creamy Coleslaw

A crunchy, tangy contrast that balances the grilled elements perfectly.

Lemonade or Pineapple Mojitos

For drinks, stick with citrusy or tropical sips to complement the dish.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If these Pineapple Chicken Kabobs made your dinner table a hit, you’ll want to keep the flavor train going with these equally satisfying recipes:

• Marry Me Chicken Pasta delivers creamy, flavor-packed comfort in every bite.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts offer a rich and savory twist to your everyday dinner.
• One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles keeps the cleanup easy and the flavor bold.
• Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken is your new go-to for stress-free comfort food.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is everything indulgent and cheesy baked into one dish.

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And let me know in the comments how your kabobs turned out. Did you grill indoors or outdoors? Try a different marinade or add new veggies?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Feel free to drop your tweaks and questions below.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are more than a meal—they’re a flavorful escape to sunny, tropical comfort. With a balance of juicy chicken, sweet caramelized fruit, and vibrant veggies, these kabobs are the perfect dinner for when you want something both fun and nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a casual summer get-together, this dish promises to be a standout every time.

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