These BBQ Chicken Pineapple Skewers are the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. Juicy grilled chicken, caramelized pineapple, colorful bell peppers, and red onion come together in one easy summer meal that’s ideal for family dinners, cookouts, and backyard gatherings. This BBQ Chicken Pineapple Skewers recipe is simple to prepare, packed with fresh flavor, and guaranteed to become a favorite for grilling season.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet and smoky flavors pair perfectly together.
- Easy to prep ahead for parties and weeknight dinners.
- Family-friendly and colorful presentation.
- Perfect for grilling season and summer gatherings.
- Works well with chicken breasts or chicken thighs.
- Naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.
- Delicious combination of juicy chicken and caramelized pineapple.
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon garlic, finely minced
- ½ teaspoon sweet or smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs, cut into 1½-inch pieces
- 1 medium pineapple
- 2 medium bell peppers, any color
- 1 medium red onion
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the ketchup, honey, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, paprika, salt, chili powder, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken pieces in a gallon-size resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 2 to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat a pellet grill or regular grill to medium to medium-high heat.
- Cut the pineapple, bell peppers, and red onion into 1 to 1½-inch pieces.
- Thread the chicken, pineapple, peppers, and onions onto skewers. Repeat the pattern until the skewers are filled.
- Grill the BBQ Chicken Pineapple Skewers, turning once halfway through cooking. Grill chicken breasts for about 4 to 5 minutes per side or chicken thighs for about 6 to 7 minutes per side, until fully cooked.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately.
Tips & Tricks
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and flavorful on the grill.
- Use fresh pineapple for the best caramelized sweetness.
- Avoid overcrowding the skewers so the ingredients cook evenly.
- Add a light brush of extra BBQ sauce during the final minutes of grilling for richer flavor.
- Rotate the skewers carefully to avoid sticking.
Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marinating Time: 2 to 24 hours
- Cook Time: 10 to 14 minutes
- Total Time: About 35 minutes plus marinating
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Gluten-Free Option, High Protein
Notes
- Substitute chicken thighs for even juicier skewers.
- Yellow or orange bell peppers add extra sweetness.
- Serve with coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or fresh salad.
- Leftover skewers can be removed from the sticks and added to wraps or rice bowls.
- Add jalapeño slices for a spicy version.
Nutrition
Approximate per serving:
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 13g
FAQ
Can I make BBQ Chicken Pineapple Skewers ahead of time?
Yes. You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers several hours in advance before grilling.
Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?
Absolutely. Bake them at 425°F for 18 to 22 minutes, turning halfway through.
What type of chicken works best?
Both chicken breasts and chicken thighs work well. Chicken thighs stay slightly juicier.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F using a meat thermometer.
Can I use canned pineapple?
Fresh pineapple is best because it caramelizes beautifully, but canned pineapple chunks can work in a pinch.
Are these skewers spicy?
They are mildly seasoned. Add extra chili powder or jalapeños if you prefer more heat.
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze cooked chicken and vegetables for up to 2 months.
- Reheat gently in the microwave, oven, or skillet until warmed through.
- Avoid overcooking during reheating to keep the chicken tender.
Similar Recipes
BBQ Chicken Pineapple Skewers
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon garlic finely minced
- ½ teaspoon sweet or smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs cut into 1½-inch pieces
- 1 medium pineapple
- 2 medium bell peppers any color
- 1 medium red onion
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the ketchup, honey, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, paprika, salt, chili powder, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken pieces in a gallon-size resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 2 to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat a pellet grill or regular grill to medium to medium-high heat.
- Cut the pineapple, bell peppers, and red onion into 1 to 1½-inch pieces.
- Thread the chicken, pineapple, peppers, and onions onto skewers. Repeat the pattern until the skewers are filled.
- Grill the BBQ Chicken Pineapple Skewers, turning once halfway through cooking. Grill chicken breasts for about 4 to 5 minutes per side or chicken thighs for about 6 to 7 minutes per side, until fully cooked.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately.
Notes
- Substitute chicken thighs for even juicier skewers.
- Yellow or orange bell peppers add extra sweetness.
- Serve with coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or fresh salad.
- Leftover skewers can be removed from the sticks and added to wraps or rice bowls.
- Add jalapeño slices for a spicy version.
Conclusion
These BBQ Chicken Pineapple Skewers are an easy and flavorful meal that delivers the perfect mix of smoky grilled chicken and sweet caramelized pineapple. Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is simple, colorful, and always satisfying. Once you try these BBQ Chicken Pineapple Skewers, they’re sure to become a regular part of your grilling menu.