Grilled Chicken Pineapple Vegetable Skewers Recipe

Introduction

Grilled Chicken, Pineapple and Vegetable Skewers are a vibrant and flavorful meal that combines sweet, smoky and savory elements in every bite. Tender marinated chicken, juicy pineapple and colorful vegetables come together on skewers for an easy and visually appealing dish. Because everything cooks quickly on the grill, this recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, outdoor gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.

Moreover, these skewers offer the ideal balance of protein, vegetables and natural sweetness. The BBQ and pineapple marinade infuses the chicken with deep flavor, while grilling adds a subtle char that enhances taste and texture. Whether served on their own or paired with rice, salad or grilled bread, these skewers always deliver bold flavor with minimal effort.

History and Background of the Recipe

Skewered meats and vegetables have been part of global cuisines for centuries, from Middle Eastern kebabs to Southeast Asian satay and Mediterranean souvlaki. Cooking ingredients on skewers allows even heat distribution and quick cooking, making it a popular technique for outdoor grilling.

The pairing of chicken and pineapple reflects tropical and Hawaiian-inspired flavor combinations that became popular in modern barbecue culture. Pineapple’s natural enzymes help tenderize meat, while its sweetness balances smoky and savory marinades. Adding bell peppers and onions brings color, crunch and freshness, completing the skewers with both flavor and nutrition.

Today, grilled chicken pineapple skewers remain a favorite because they are customizable, family-friendly and perfect for entertaining. They combine classic grilling methods with bright, contemporary flavors.

Ingredients

For the Skewers

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
& 1 medium red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
Wooden or metal skewers

For the Marinade and Glaze

1 cup BBQ sauce
¼ cup pineapple juice
2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey, optional
& 1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon ginger powder or minced fresh ginger
Salt and black pepper to taste

Preparation

Step 1: Marinate the chicken

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. In a medium bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, olive oil, brown sugar or honey if using, garlic and ginger. Set aside half of the marinade to use later as glaze and dipping sauce.

Place the cubed chicken in a large bowl or resealable bag and pour the remaining marinade over it. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to two hours for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Assemble the skewers

Once the chicken has marinated, begin threading the chicken, pineapple chunks and vegetables onto the skewers. Alternate the ingredients to create balanced skewers and even cooking. Leave a small space between pieces to allow heat to circulate.

Step 3: Grill the skewers

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, approximately 375°F to 400°F. Lightly brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. During the final minutes of cooking, brush the skewers with the reserved glaze. Continue grilling until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C and the vegetables are tender with light char marks.

Step 4: Rest and serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This resting period helps retain juices and improves texture. Serve warm with any remaining glaze on the side for dipping.

Nutritional Information (Estimated per Serving)

Although values may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used, here is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 420 to 480 kcal
Protein: 36 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fat: 18 g
Fiber: 4 g
Vitamin C: High

This meal provides lean protein, fresh vegetables and natural fruit sweetness, making it balanced and satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook these skewers in the oven?

Yes, you can bake them at 425°F or 220°C for about 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through and brushing with glaze during the final minutes.

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Fresh pineapple is preferred for better texture and flavor, but canned pineapple chunks can be used if well drained.

How do I prevent chicken from drying out?

Marinating the chicken and avoiding overcooking helps keep it juicy. Using chicken thighs also provides extra moisture.

Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the skewers a few hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

What side dishes pair well with these skewers?

Rice, quinoa, grilled vegetables, coleslaw or simple salads work very well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken, Pineapple and Vegetable Skewers are a perfect combination of sweet, smoky and savory flavors. With juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple and colorful vegetables, they deliver a complete and satisfying meal in one easy-to-serve format. Because they are quick to cook and simple to customize, they are ideal for casual dinners and festive gatherings alike.

Whether grilled outdoors or cooked indoors on a grill pan, these skewers bring vibrant flavor and visual appeal to any table. Fire up the grill, brush on the glaze and enjoy a dish that captures the essence of summer cooking.

Grilled chicken skewers with pineapple chunks, bell peppers and red onion brushed with BBQ glaze on a hot grill.

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