Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

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Juicy chunks of chicken, sweet bursts of pineapple, and a smoky char from the grill—these Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are everything you want in a summer meal. Each bite is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, kissed with a light caramelization that makes them irresistible. They’re quick to assemble, cook in minutes, and bring vibrant color to your table.

Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a weeknight dinner, or a festive gathering, these kabobs are a crowd-pleaser that never disappoint. The pineapple doesn’t just add sweetness; it tenderizes the chicken as it cooks, ensuring every bite stays moist and flavorful. Plus, the presentation alone will make you feel like you’re on a tropical getaway.

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Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Recipe

• Sweet and Savory Harmony: The pineapple’s natural sugars blend beautifully with seasoned chicken, creating a flavor combo that works every single time.
• Fast and Easy: Perfect for busy nights or last-minute guests, these kabobs require minimal prep and cook in under 15 minutes.
• Healthy and Colorful: Packed with lean protein and vitamin-rich pineapple, they’re as nutritious as they are eye-catching.
• Versatile: Serve them with rice, salad, or right off the skewer—they adapt to any menu.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get perfectly cooked Pineapple Chicken Kabobs, having the right tools makes all the difference:

• Wooden or Metal Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Metal skewers are reusable and conduct heat well, cooking the chicken from the inside.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for cutting the chicken and pineapple into even-sized pieces so they cook uniformly.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface to prepare all ingredients safely and efficiently.
• Mixing Bowl: Perfect for marinating the chicken to infuse flavor before grilling.
• Grill or Grill Pan: A grill provides that unbeatable smoky char, while a grill pan is great for indoor cooking without sacrificing those beautiful sear marks.

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Ingredients for the Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

• Chicken Breast: Lean and tender, perfect for absorbing the marinade.
• Pineapple Chunks: Fresh or canned, bringing sweetness and natural tenderizing enzymes.
• Soy Sauce: Adds savory depth and enhances caramelization.
• Honey: Balances the saltiness of soy sauce with a touch of natural sweetness.
• Garlic: Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor into the marinade.
• Olive Oil: Helps the chicken stay moist and prevents sticking.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

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How To Make the Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and place them in the bowl. Toss to coat evenly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs

Thread chicken and pineapple chunks alternately onto skewers, ensuring even spacing for consistent cooking.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the kabobs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot off the grill with your favorite side dishes or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

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Serving and Storing Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Serve these kabobs immediately for the juiciest, most flavorful results. They pair beautifully with coconut rice, grilled veggies, or a crisp green salad. For storage, let them cool completely before placing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on a grill or skillet to revive the smoky flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pineapple?

Yes, just drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs stay extra juicy and work wonderfully in this recipe.

Do I have to marinate the chicken?

Marinating is highly recommended for maximum flavor, but even 15 minutes will help.

How do I keep wooden skewers from burning?

Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken and pineapple.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Pineapple Chicken Kabobs, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a gooey, savory lunch.
• Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce when you want a creamy, indulgent dinner.
• Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for the ultimate comfort food.
• Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with a zesty twist.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try adding peppers or onions? Did you baste them with extra sauce while grilling?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter. For more delicious ideas, check out my Pinterest Kitchen By Kate.

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