Chicken Pineapple Kabobs are a perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner. These kabobs are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken and sweet pineapple makes this dish kid-friendly and appealing to all ages. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can serve them over rice, in wraps, or as a part of a vibrant salad. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these Chicken Pineapple Kabobs!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The sweet pineapple glaze perfectly complements the savory chicken, ensuring every bite is delicious.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the sweet and savory combination of flavors.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these kabobs over rice, in salads, or even in sandwiches for a delightful meal.
• Great for Grilling: Perfect for summer cookouts, these kabobs are sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Chicken Pineapple Kabobs, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Grill or grill pan
• Gallon-sized zip lock bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Crucial for holding the chicken and pineapple together while grilling.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients effectively.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth marinade that coats the chicken evenly.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides the heat needed to create that delicious grilled flavor.

this recipe

Ingredients

Chicken Pineapple Kabobs are easy to whip up and absolutely bursting with flavor! They are smothered with a delicious sweet pineapple glaze that is very kid friendly!

For the Kabobs

• 1 pound of chicken breast cut up into 1 inch pieces
• 1 fresh ripe pineapple cut into bite-sized chunks (approx. 1×1 inch pieces)
• 1 red onion

For the Marinade

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 Tablespoon water
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce

How to Make Chicken Pineapple Kabobs

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the following ingredients:
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
* 2 Tablespoon water
* 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce

Whisk vigorously for 1 minute until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix until all pieces are coated evenly.
Place everything into a gallon-sized zip lock bag or cover your bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 3 – 4 hours, mixing contents every hour for even marination.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers and Vegetables

While the chicken marinates:
– Soak wooden skewers in a pan of water.
– Slice red onion into large 1-inch pieces.

Step 4: Assemble the Kabobs

Once marinated, skewer pineapple chunks, onion pieces, and chicken onto each skewer until full but leaving about 2 inches on each end for handling.

Step 5: Grill the Kabobs

Spray your grill with non-stick spray. Place skewers on the grill and cook for about 10 – 15 minutes. Rotate every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately over rice or alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Pineapple Kabobs!

How to Serve Chicken Pineapple Kabobs

Chicken Pineapple Kabobs are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family meal, these kabobs bring a tropical flair to your table.

Over Rice

• Serve the kabobs over a bed of fluffy rice for a complete meal. The rice absorbs the delicious glaze, enhancing every bite.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair your kabobs with a crisp salad. A simple green salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the pineapple.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the kabobs in lettuce wraps. This adds crunch and freshness while keeping it low-carb.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces on the side, such as sweet chili sauce or soy sauce. These add extra flavor and allow guests to customize their experience.

On Skewers as Appetizers

• Cut the kabobs into smaller pieces and serve them on skewers as appetizers for parties. They are easy to grab and perfect for mingling.

How to Perfect Chicken Pineapple Kabobs

To make sure your Chicken Pineapple Kabobs turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh chicken and ripe pineapple enhances the flavors and textures of your kabobs.

• Marinate Thoroughly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 3-4 hours. This ensures that it absorbs all the delicious flavors from the marinade.

• Soak Wooden Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers in water prevents them from burning on the grill, allowing for even cooking without charred edges.

• Rotate Regularly: Turn your kabobs every 5 minutes while grilling. This ensures even cooking and helps prevent any pieces from drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Pineapple Kabobs

Serving side dishes with Chicken Pineapple Kabobs can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Coconut Rice
   This fragrant rice dish pairs beautifully with tropical flavors, adding a creamy texture that complements the kabobs perfectly.

2. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus can be grilled alongside your kabobs for added color and nutrition.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon adds a nutritious touch and balances out the sweetness of the kabobs.

4. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, which pairs well with the sweetness of the pineapple glaze on the chicken.

5. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled corn on the cob brushed with butter is always a crowd-pleaser, making it a great addition to summer meals featuring kabobs.

6. Fruit Salsa
   A vibrant fruit salsa made with mango or kiwi brings freshness that enhances the tropical theme of Chicken Pineapple Kabobs.

7. Garlic Bread
   Crisp garlic bread offers a nice contrast in texture and is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your kabobs.

8. Potato Salad
   A creamy potato salad serves as a hearty side that balances out lighter dishes like salads or coleslaw.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating and grilling Chicken Pineapple Kabobs can be straightforward, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Marination Time: Not allowing enough time for the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 3 hours, or even overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

• Using Dry Wooden Skewers: If you forget to soak skewers, they may burn on the grill. Always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.

• Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too many ingredients onto one skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Leave some space between pieces so heat circulates properly.

• Ignoring Temperature Checks: Cooking without checking the chicken’s internal temperature can result in undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).

• Not Preheating the Grill: Starting with a cold grill can lead to sticking and uneven cooking. Preheat your grill for about 10-15 minutes before adding the kabobs.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Pineapple Kabobs in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Pineapple Kabobs

• Freeze kabobs by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Chicken Pineapple Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake kabobs on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat in intervals of 1 minute until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little oil. Sauté kabobs for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Pineapple Kabobs that can help enhance your cooking experience.

How do I make Chicken Pineapple Kabobs more flavorful?

You can enhance flavor by marinating longer or experimenting with different spices and fruits like bell peppers or zucchini alongside your chicken and pineapple.

Can I use frozen chicken for Chicken Pineapple Kabobs?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; however, make sure it is fully thawed before marinating and grilling for even cooking.

What sides pair well with Chicken Pineapple Kabobs?

Serving these kabobs with rice, quinoa salad, or grilled vegetables complements their sweet and savory flavors perfectly.

Are Chicken Pineapple Kabobs suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These kabobs store well, making them ideal for meal prep. Just reheat when ready to enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Chicken Pineapple Kabobs offer a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that appeal to all ages. They are versatile; feel free to customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping in different proteins. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering!

Print

Chicken Pineapple Kabobs

---

• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Chicken Pineapple Kabobs are a vibrant and delicious dish that will elevate any meal, from backyard barbecues to family dinners. Featuring tender chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, paired with sweet and juicy pineapple, these kabobs are not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Serve them over rice, in fresh salads, or as fun appetizers for gatherings. With their appealing combination of sweet and savory flavors, these kabobs are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 fresh ripe pineapple (cut into bite-sized chunks)
• 1 red onion (cut into large pieces)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 Tablespoon water
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce

---

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together garlic powder, brown sugar, ground ginger, black pepper, vegetable oil, water, and low sodium soy sauce until well combined.
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix until evenly coated. Refrigerate in a zip lock bag or covered bowl for 3-4 hours.
3. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. Cut red onion into large pieces.
4. Assemble the kabobs by skewering pineapple chunks, onion pieces, and marinated chicken.
5. Grill the kabobs on a preheated grill for 10-15 minutes, rotating every 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 kabob (100g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 440mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating bell peppers or zucchini onto the skewers. Make sure to soak the skewers to prevent burning on the grill. These kabobs can be served over coconut rice or alongside a fresh salad for an enhanced meal experience.