Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These skewers are sweet, smoky, juicy, and incredibly satisfying. Tender chunks of BBQ-glazed chicken alternate with caramelized pineapple, bell peppers, and red onion—making every bite a burst of bold, tropical flavor. They’re easy to prep, perfect for grilling season, and a hit with both kids and adults. Serve them at cookouts, weeknight dinners, or sunny weekend gatherings.
What Are BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Skewers?
This dish features bite-sized chicken pieces marinated in BBQ sauce and skewered with pineapple chunks and colorful veggies. They’re grilled until the chicken is charred and sticky, and the pineapple is caramelized. It’s a fun, handheld meal that brings out the best in sweet-and-savory combos.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces
- 1 ½ cups pineapple chunks (fresh or canned in juice, drained)
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 small red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
Substitutions & Variations
- Chicken: Use shrimp, pork tenderloin, or tofu for variations.
- BBQ Sauce: Swap for teriyaki or sweet chili sauce for a different flavor twist.
- Fruit: Try mango or peach instead of pineapple for a new sweet note.
- Veggies: Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms also grill beautifully.
How to Make BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Skewers
Cut and marinate the chicken, then thread it onto skewers with pineapple and veggies. Grill until lightly charred and cooked through, brushing with extra BBQ sauce as you go.
Detailed Cooking Instructions
- Soak the skewers (if using wood):
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. - Marinate the chicken:
In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with half the BBQ sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Marinate for at least 20 minutes (up to overnight in the fridge). - Assemble the skewers:
Alternate chicken, pineapple, bell peppers, and onion on each skewer. Leave a little space between pieces for even cooking. - Grill:
Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes and brushing with remaining BBQ sauce until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F) and nicely charred. - Serve:
Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce, rice, or a crisp salad.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the skewers: Leave space between ingredients for even grilling.
- Skipping the marinade: It adds flavor and helps keep the chicken juicy.
- High heat only: Grill over medium-high—not blazing hot—or the sugar in BBQ sauce may burn.
- Using watery fruit: If using canned pineapple, drain thoroughly and pat dry.
Serving & Presentation Tips
Serve the skewers over cilantro-lime rice, with a side of coleslaw or grilled corn. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro and a wedge of lime for a bright finish.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Skewers
These skewers are perfect for outdoor meals, summer potlucks, or casual dinners. Serve with:
- Grilled sweet potatoes or corn
- Coconut rice or quinoa
- A cool cucumber salad
- A pitcher of iced tea or tropical cocktails
Presentation Ideas
- Serve on a wooden platter lined with fresh pineapple leaves for a tropical vibe.
- Fan skewers out in a circle and drizzle with a little warmed BBQ sauce.
- Add charred lime halves or jalapeños to the plate for color and flair.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Results
- Use firm, ripe pineapple for the best texture on the grill.
- Marinate chicken in a zip-top bag for easy cleanup.
- For even cooking, cut all ingredients to similar sizes.
- Want extra flavor? Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin to the marinade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) on a foil-lined sheet for 20–25 minutes, turning once.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Sure—just thaw completely before marinating and grilling.
Do I need to cook the pineapple first?
Nope! It caramelizes naturally as it grills, becoming sweeter and more flavorful.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently or eat cold as a wrap filling.
Final Thoughts
BBQ Chicken and Pineapple Skewers are the ultimate summer dish—easy to prep, fun to eat, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or craving something bright and bold, this sweet-and-savory combo will hit the spot every single time.