Save to Pinterest These grilled skewers combine juicy chicken breast with sweet pineapple, red bell pepper, and red onion for a perfect balance of flavors. The smoky BBQ marinade infuses everything with rich, tangy goodness while the grill adds beautiful char marks and depth. Ready in under an hour including marinating time, these colorful skewers are ideal for summer barbecues, pool parties, or weeknight dinners. Serve with grilled corn, fresh rice, or a crisp salad to complete the meal.
The first time I made these skewers was during a last-minute backyard gathering. I'd grabbed a pineapple on impulse and some chicken from the fridge, figuring I'd improvise something over the flames. Everyone stood around the grill, drinks in hand, watching the caramelization happen in real time. Those skewers disappeared faster than anything else I served that summer evening.
Last July, my neighbor caught the aroma from her deck and wandered over with a plate. Now she asks about these skewers every time she sees my grill out. There's something about that charred pineapple smell that pulls people together like nothing else.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken breasts: Cutting into uniform cubes ensures everything cooks at the same pace
- Fresh pineapple: The natural sugars caramelize beautifully on the grill
- Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and a vibrant pop of color
- Red onion: Gets sweet and mellow when grilled
- BBQ sauce: Store-bought works perfectly but homemade adds something special
- Smoked paprika: This is what gives that authentic grilled flavor
- Fresh cilantro: Brightens everything up against the rich sauce
Instructions
- Make the marinade:
- Whisk together the BBQ sauce, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, smoked paprika, pepper, and salt until smooth.
- Marinate the chicken:
- Toss the chicken cubes in the mixture, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare your skewers:
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes while the chicken marinates.
- Heat the grill:
- Get your grill to medium-high heat or preheat a grill pan on the stove.
- Thread the skewers:
- Alternate chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, and onion pieces onto each skewer.
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with extra sauce.
- Finish and serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve alongside lime wedges.
Save to Pinterest My daughter claimed the pineapple chunks were candy and ate them straight off the skewer. Now she requests extra pineapple every time these appear on the menu.
Making Ahead
The chicken can marinate overnight if you want to get a head start. In fact, the longer it sits in that smoky sauce, the more flavorful it becomes.
Grill Tips
Keep a spray bottle of water nearby for flare-ups. The sugar in the BBQ sauce and pineapple can cause sudden flames, so stay attentive.
Serving Ideas
These skewers work beautifully with simple sides that don't compete with the bold flavors.
- Cilantro lime rice adds a fresh base
- Grilled corn on the cob completes the summer meal
- A crisp green salad balances the richness
Save to Pinterest These skewers have become my go-to for effortless summer entertaining. Nothing beats watching people gather around the grill, drawn in by that irresistible sweet and smoky aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
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Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 2 hours. The BBQ sauce contains enough acid to tenderize, while the soy sauce adds savory depth and smoked paprika provides that authentic grill flavor.
- → Can I bake these instead of grilling?
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Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes on a lined baking sheet, turning halfway and basting with extra sauce. They won't have the same smoky char, but will still be delicious and tender.
- → What other vegetables work well on these skewers?
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Zucchini chunks, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or red onion wedges all grill beautifully alongside the chicken and pineapple. Just cut everything to similar sizes so they cook evenly.
- → Do I need to soak wooden skewers?
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Yes, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before threading to prevent them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers can be used directly without soaking.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
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The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) and the pieces are firm and opaque throughout. Cut into one piece to check—no pink should remain.
