Pineapple Chicken Kabobs are a bright and tasty treat that combines juicy chicken pieces with sweet pineapple chunks, all grilled to perfection. The hint of smoky char from the grill pairs wonderfully with the natural sweetness of the fruit, making every bite a flavorful mix of savory and sweet.
I love making these kabobs when the weather is nice because they’re so easy to put together and cook outside. One of my favorite things is marinating the chicken just right so it stays tender and full of flavor, and the pineapple adds a fresh, juicy pop that keeps things interesting. It’s always a hit with friends and family!
These kabobs are perfect served right off the grill with a simple side like rice or a crisp green salad. For a little extra fun, I sometimes brush them with a bit of barbecue sauce or a squeeze of lime to bring out even more zing. Whether for a casual dinner or a cookout with friends, pineapple chicken kabobs never fail to bring smiles around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: I like using boneless, skinless breasts for tender bites and quick cooking. If you want something juicier, try chicken thighs—they stay moist on the grill.
Fresh pineapple: Fresh pineapple gives the best sweet, tangy flavor and caramelizes nicely on the grill. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple chunks (drained) can work in a pinch.
Red onion: Red onion adds a mild sweetness and some crunch. Yellow or sweet onions are good alternatives if you want a softer, less sharp taste.
Marinade ingredients: Olive oil keeps the chicken moist, while soy sauce and honey create a great balance of salty and sweet. You can swap honey for maple syrup or agave for a different kind of sweetness. For a vinegar swap, apple cider or rice vinegar both work well.
How Do You Get Tender, Flavorful Chicken on the Grill?
Marinating is key to juicy kabobs. Here’s what helps me get tender chicken every time:
- Cut chicken into even chunks so they cook uniformly.
- Marinate at least 30 minutes—up to 2 hours is best. Too long can make the meat mushy.
- Use a mix of oil, acid (vinegar), and flavorings to help tenderize and add taste.
- Preheat the grill before cooking to lock in juices quickly.
- Turn kabobs often, about every 3-4 minutes, so they cook evenly without burning.
- Check chicken for doneness—a meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C) inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Skewers (wooden or metal) – If using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Grill or grill pan – I recommend a preheated grill for those beautiful char marks and smoky flavor.
- Medium bowl – for whisking the marinade ingredients together.
- Tongs or grill tools – for turning and removing the kabobs easily.
- Basting brush (optional) – to brush on extra marinade or glaze during grilling.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add bell peppers or zucchini slices to the kabobs for extra crunch and color.
- Use pineapple rings or chunks marinated in a spicy sriracha glaze for a tangy kick.
- Swap soy sauce for teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, more complex flavor.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the marinade for aromatic notes.
How to Make Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 to 1.5-inch chunks
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks (about 1/2 a pineapple)
- 1 large red onion, cut into chunks
Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for subtle warmth)
Additional:
- Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep, 30 minutes to 2 hours for marinating, and 12 minutes for grilling. So, plan around 45 minutes to 2.5 hours total depending on how long you marinate the chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cumin until well mixed. This tasty marinade gives your chicken a deliciously sweet and smoky flavor.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken chunks to the bowl and toss them in the marinade so they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can let it sit for 1–2 hours, the chicken will be even more tender and flavorful.
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, and red onion pieces onto the skewers, switching between them to create a colorful and tasty mix.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates to stop the kabobs from sticking. This also helps get those perfect grill marks.
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the kabobs onto the grill and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes. Turn them every 3 to 4 minutes so they cook evenly. You want your chicken fully cooked with nice grill marks, and the pineapple and onions should look slightly charred but still juicy and tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Move the kabobs to a serving platter and sprinkle on some fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve them hot with rice, salad, or your favorite side dish, and enjoy the smoky, sweet, and deliciously savory flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Kabobs?
Yes, but make sure the chicken is fully thawed before marinating. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. This helps the marinade soak in evenly and ensures even cooking.
Can I Make Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken and assemble the kabobs up to 4 hours in advance. Keep them covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to grill to maintain freshness and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the grill or in the oven to keep the chicken juicy and pineapple flavorful.
What Can I Serve with Pineapple Chicken Kabobs?
These kabobs pair wonderfully with steamed rice, a fresh green salad, grilled veggies, or even couscous for a complete and balanced meal.
