Grilled Chicken Pineapple Kabobs

When summer arrives and the grill comes out, few dishes capture the spirit of outdoor cooking quite like these Grilled Chicken Pineapple Kabobs with Bell Peppers. This recipe brings together tender, juicy chicken breast with the tropical sweetness of fresh pineapple and the vibrant crunch of colorful bell peppers. Each skewer is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, marinated in a honey-lime glaze that caramelizes beautifully over the flames. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a healthy weeknight dinner, these kabobs deliver bold flavor with minimal effort. The marinade does most of the work, infusing the chicken with smoky paprika, tangy lime, and a hint of garlic, while the pineapple and peppers char to perfection on the grill.

Pin

The beauty of these kabobs lies in their simplicity and adaptability. The marinade is a straightforward blend of pantry staples—olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and spices—that transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. As the skewers hit the grill, the sugars in the honey and pineapple caramelize, creating a slightly charred exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat and crisp vegetables. The bell peppers not only add a burst of color but also provide a satisfying crunch and subtle sweetness that complements the tropical notes of the pineapple. This dish proves that great grilling doesn't require complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 1 medium pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1.5-inch chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
• 1 medium red onion, cut into 1.5-inch pieces (optional)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (use gluten-free if needed)
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, paprika, pepper, and salt to make the marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add chicken cubes to the marinade, toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 4: Assemble the Kabobs

Thread marinated chicken, pineapple, bell peppers, and onion alternately onto skewers.

Step 5: Preheat the Grill

Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).

Step 6: Grill the Kabobs

Lightly oil the grill grates. Place kabobs on the grill.

Step 7: Cook Until Done

Grill for 12–15 minutes, turning every 3–4 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and vegetables are lightly charred.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove from grill and let rest 2 minutes before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, cut all your ingredients to a uniform 1.5-inch size to ensure even cooking. The chicken, pineapple, and vegetables should all be roughly the same dimensions so they cook at the same rate. When marinating, reserve a small amount of the marinade before adding the raw chicken—this clean marinade can be brushed onto the kabobs during the last few minutes of grilling for an extra flavor boost. Always use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached 165°F internally. If you're using wooden skewers, don't skip the soaking step, as dry skewers can catch fire on the grill. For easier cleanup and to prevent sticking, use metal skewers when possible and always oil your grill grates before cooking.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is wonderfully flexible and welcomes creative substitutions. For a seafood version, replace the chicken with large shrimp, reducing the cooking time to about 6-8 minutes. Vegetarians can use firm tofu or halloumi cheese in place of the chicken. If pineapple isn't available or you want to try something different, fresh mango chunks work beautifully and offer a similar tropical sweetness. The bell peppers can be swapped for zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. For those following a strict gluten-free diet, simply use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce. You can also adjust the marinade sweetness by using maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey, or add heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne.

Serviervorschläge

These kabobs are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. For a complete meal, serve them over fluffy jasmine rice, coconut rice, or quinoa to soak up any extra marinade. A side of couscous or cauliflower rice also pairs wonderfully. For a lighter option, serve the kabobs alongside a fresh green salad with citrus vinaigrette or a crunchy Asian-style slaw. Grilled vegetables like corn on the cob or asparagus make excellent accompaniments. You can also remove the chicken and vegetables from the skewers and serve them in warm tortillas or pita bread with a drizzle of yogurt sauce for a fun, handheld meal. Don't forget to garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

Pin

These Grilled Chicken Pineapple Kabobs with Bell Peppers represent everything we love about summer cooking—vibrant colors, bold flavors, and the satisfying char that only a grill can provide. With just 35 minutes from start to finish (plus marinating time), this recipe proves that impressive meals don't have to be complicated. The combination of sweet pineapple, savory chicken, and crisp peppers creates a flavor profile that's both familiar and exciting, perfect for introducing new tastes to picky eaters or impressing guests at your next cookout. Whether you're a grilling novice or a seasoned pitmaster, these kabobs are sure to become a regular feature in your warm-weather rotation. Fire up that grill and get ready to enjoy one of the most delicious and colorful dishes of the season.

Recipe FAQ

→ How long should the chicken marinate?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop, but up to 2 hours for a deeper taste.

→ Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?

Yes, mango or peaches can be great alternatives to add a sweet and tangy element to the skewers.

→ What is the best way to prevent skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to minimize burning.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

→ Can I prepare these kabobs ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken in advance and assemble skewers just before grilling for freshness.

→ What sides complement these grilled kabobs?

Consider serving with rice, couscous, or a fresh green salad for a balanced, colorful meal.