BBQ Chicken Pineapple Kebabs

There's something magical about the sizzle of chicken hitting a hot grill, the sweet aroma of caramelizing pineapple mingling with smoky BBQ sauce, and the vibrant colors of red onion charring to perfection. These BBQ Chicken Pineapple Kebabs aren't just a meal—they're a celebration of summer on a stick. Whether you're firing up the grill for a backyard gathering or simply craving a dish that balances sweet, savory, and smoky in every bite, these skewers deliver flavor that's as bold as it is easy to prepare.

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The beauty of these kebabs lies in their simplicity. A quick marinade of BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. As the skewers turn on the grill, the pineapple's natural sugars caramelize, the red onion softens and sweetens, and the BBQ glaze forms a glossy, flavorful coating. Each component plays its part—the chicken provides hearty protein, the pineapple brings tropical sweetness, and the red onion adds a mild bite that ties it all together. This is comfort food that feels special, outdoor cooking at its finest.

Ingredients

• 500 g (1.1 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) cubes
• 120 ml (½ cup) BBQ sauce, plus extra for brushing
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 medium red onion, peeled and cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) pieces
• 1 medium pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) chunks
• 8 wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine chicken cubes, olive oil, 120 ml BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for extra flavor).

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C/400°F).

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread chicken, pineapple, and red onion alternately onto skewers, starting and ending with chicken pieces for stability.

Step 4: Grill the Kebabs

Place skewers on the grill. Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning every 3–4 minutes and brushing with extra BBQ sauce, until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove from grill, rest for 2 minutes, and serve warm with additional BBQ sauce if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the most tender, flavorful chicken, don't skip the marinating step—even a quick 15-minute soak makes a difference, but if you have time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator will deepen those smoky, savory notes. When threading the skewers, try to keep the pieces uniform in size so everything cooks evenly. Starting and ending with chicken pieces helps anchor the skewer and prevents the pineapple and onion from sliding around. If you're using wooden skewers, the 30-minute soak in water is essential to prevent them from burning on the grill. Keep a small bowl of extra BBQ sauce and a basting brush nearby—those final glazes during grilling create that irresistible sticky, caramelized finish. Don't overcrowd the grill; give each skewer enough space to allow proper air circulation and even charring.

Varianten und Anpassungen

While chicken is the star here, these kebabs are wonderfully versatile. Swap the chicken for jumbo shrimp for a seafood twist that cooks even faster, or use firm tofu or halloumi cheese for a vegetarian version that's equally satisfying. If you want to add more vegetables, colorful bell peppers and zucchini chunks work beautifully alongside (or instead of) the red onion, adding extra nutrition and crunch. For those who like heat, stir a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the marinade to give these kebabs a spicy kick. You can also experiment with different BBQ sauce styles—a tangy Carolina mustard sauce, a sweet Kansas City-style glaze, or a smoky Texas blend will each bring their own character to the dish.

Serviervorschläge

These vibrant kebabs shine as the centerpiece of a summer spread. Serve them straight off the grill alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the BBQ glaze. Grilled corn on the cob, brushed with butter and sprinkled with sea salt, makes a classic pairing that echoes the smoky, charred flavors. For a heartier meal, add a side of fluffy coconut rice or buttery garlic bread. A bowl of extra BBQ sauce for dipping is always welcome, and don't forget a refreshing beverage—iced lemonade, cold beer, or a tropical fruit punch complement the sweet-and-savory profile perfectly. These skewers also work beautifully for meal prep; simply slide the grilled ingredients off the skewers and toss with greens for an easy lunch bowl throughout the week.

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These BBQ Chicken Pineapple Kebabs with Red Onion prove that the best meals don't have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients, a hot grill, and about half an hour, you can create a dish that's bursting with flavor, color, and summer vibes. Whether you're feeding a crowd at a backyard barbecue or treating your family to a special weeknight dinner, these skewers deliver every time. The combination of smoky, sweet, and savory is simply irresistible, and the ease of preparation means you'll be making them again and again. Fire up that grill, thread those skewers, and get ready to enjoy one of the season's most satisfying meals.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prevent the chicken from drying out on the grill?

Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes to infuse moisture and flavor. Grilling over medium-high heat while turning frequently helps maintain juiciness.

→ Can I substitute pineapple with other fruits?

Yes, fruits like mango or peach work well, providing a sweet contrast that complements the smoky spices.

→ What sides pair best with these kebabs?

Fresh green salads, grilled corn, or rice pilaf enhance the smoky and sweet flavors of the kebabs.

→ How long should the kebabs be grilled?

Cook for 10 to 12 minutes over medium-high heat, turning every 3 to 4 minutes and brushing with BBQ glaze to maintain moisture.

→ Are there options for dietary preferences?

Chicken can be swapped with tofu, shrimp, or halloumi for different textures and dietary needs.