Pin it These vibrant skewers combine tender chicken cubes with sweet pineapple chunks, colorful bell peppers, and red onion, all marinated in a homemade BBQ sauce featuring honey, soy sauce, garlic, and smoked paprika. The grilling process creates beautiful char marks while infusing everything with that irresistible smoky-savory flavor. Ready in just 35 minutes plus marinating time, they're an ideal choice for summer gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep lunches.
The smell of grilling pineapple always transports me back to a rooftop BBQ in Chicago where my friend first introduced me to the magic of fruit on the grill. I was skeptical until that first bite—the caramelized sweetness against the smoky chicken was absolutely revelatory. Now its my go-to summer dinner because it turns an ordinary Tuesday into something that feels like a tiny celebration. The way the BBQ sauce bubbles and chars on the edges never gets old.
Last summer I made these for a block party and watched three different people ask for the recipe before they even finished their first skewer. Theres something about food on sticks that just makes people happy, like being at a carnival but way more delicious. My neighbor brought extra napkins which was honestly the best contribution anyone could have made.
Ingredients
- 500 g boneless chicken breasts: Cutting them into uniform cubes means everything cooks at the same speed so you dont end up with dry pieces
- 250 g fresh pineapple: Fresh pineapple holds up better on the grill and develops those gorgeous charred marks that canned just cant achieve
- 1 medium red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and color plus they get slightly smoky when grilled which is just wonderful
- 1 medium red onion: The wedges caramelize beautifully and add that savory depth that balances all the sweet
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the marinade cling to everything and prevents sticking on the grill
- 120 ml BBQ sauce: Use whatever brand you love but if its too thick whisk in a splash of water
- 1 tbsp soy sauce: That umami punch that makes the chicken taste like its been marinating for twice as long
- 1 tbsp honey: Creates the most beautiful caramelized exterior on the chicken
- 2 garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic is non negotiable here—it mellows beautifully on the grill
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: This is what gives you that smoky flavor even if youre using a grill pan indoors
- Salt and black pepper: Dont be shy with the seasoning since the marinade will lose some intensity on the grill
Instructions
- Whisk together the marinade:
- Combine olive oil, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until everything is fully incorporated
- Marinate the chicken:
- Add chicken cubes to the bowl and toss until every piece is coated then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes but honestly 2 hours is better
- Prepare your skewers:
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes while the chicken marinates so they dont burn on the grill
- Thread everything onto skewers:
- Alternate chicken pineapple bell pepper and onion leaving tiny gaps between pieces so heat can circulate and everything cooks evenly
- Get your grill ready:
- Preheat to medium high and lightly oil the grates or if using a grill pan brush it with a little oil
Pin it These skewers have become such a staple in our house that my kids actually cheer when they see me cutting up the pineapple. Something about eating dinner off a stick just makes everything more fun and the cleanup is practically nonexistent which is the real win.
Making These Your Own
Ive started keeping a jar of this marinade mixed up in the fridge during grilling season because it works on everything from shrimp to tofu. The pineapple is non negotiable for me but Ive swapped bell peppers for zucchini when thats what I had on hand and it was still fantastic.
Grilling Inside
When weather doesnt cooperate a cast iron grill pan over medium high heat works almost as well as the real thing. The secret is getting the pan properly hot before adding the skewers and resisting the urge to move them around too much so those charred lines can develop.
Serving Suggestions
These skewers are surprisingly filling on their own but I love serving them with coconut rice or a simple quinoa salad to round out the meal. A big green salad with a lime vinaigrette cuts through the sweetness perfectly.
- Extra lime wedges on the table are essential
- Napkins are not optional here
- Leftovers make the most amazing taco filling the next day
Pin it Theres something deeply satisfying about food that brings people together around the grill even if its just your family on a random Tuesday night.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
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Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours for deeper flavor penetration. Don't exceed 2 hours as the acid in the marinade can make the texture mushy.
- → Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden?
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Absolutely! Metal skewers work great and don't require soaking. They also conduct heat, helping cook ingredients from the inside out, though wooden skewers are traditional and prevent your hands from getting too hot while eating.
- → What temperature should the grill be?
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). This ensures proper char while cooking the chicken through without burning the exterior.
- → How do I know when the chicken is done?
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The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cut into one piece to verify it's white throughout and no longer pink, typically after 12-15 minutes of grilling.
- → Can I make these in the oven?
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Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Broil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve that grilled charred appearance and flavor.
- → What sides pair well with these skewers?
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These skewers complement steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, grilled corn on the cob, fresh summer salads, roasted potatoes, or warm crusty bread to soak up the extra BBQ sauce.
