Grilled Chicken Pineapple Kabobs
These grilled chicken pineapple kabobs combine sweet and savory flavors for a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner option, featuring tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and vibrant vegetables.
Ingredients
For the kabobs
- 4 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks Use plump, pale-pink breasts.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce Consider a low-sugar bottle or homemade.
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1 whole pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into bite-sized chunks Choose a heavy one with a fragrant crown.
- 2 whole bell peppers (red, orange, or yellow), cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 bunch scallions, green parts only, cut into 1-inch pieces
- sesame seeds, for garnish
- chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
Season
- Toss the chicken chunks with kosher salt and cracked black pepper in a large bowl. Add 3/4 cup of the teriyaki sauce and the pineapple juice, then toss to coat and chill for at least 20 minutes.
- Look for a glossy coating on the chicken and a faint pineapple aroma — that means the flavors are sinking in.
Prep
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 20–30 minutes so they don’t scorch. Meanwhile, cut the pineapple, bell peppers, and scallions into bite-sized pieces for even threading.
- Ensure pieces are similar in size so everything cooks at the same rate.
Assemble
- Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple, bell peppers, and scallions onto the soaked skewers, alternating ingredients for color and balance.
- Arrange them on a platter so they’re ready to hit the grill.
Grill
- Heat the grill to medium-high and oil the grates lightly.
- Cook the kabobs for about 12–15 minutes, turning often and brushing with the remaining teriyaki sauce to build a sticky glaze.
Finish
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, then remove from the grill.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped parsley or cilantro, and serve hot.
Notes
Marinate only 20–60 minutes; too long can make chicken mushy. Keep pieces uniform for the best cooking result. Grill over medium-high heat and use a thermometer for accurate doneness.