The smell of smoky, sizzling bacon and sweet pineapple wafting from the grill is enough to draw anyone in. Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs are the perfect way to enjoy a flavorful outdoor meal, taking just about 25 minutes from prep to table. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and tangy BBQ sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser, ensuring your gatherings are a hit.
This recipe is ideal for families, weekend BBQs, or casual gatherings with friends. They can be prepared in advance by marinating the chicken and skewering the kabobs a few hours ahead.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The bacon adds a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with tender chicken.
- Pineapple brings a sweet and tangy flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
- The BBQ sauce caramelizes beautifully during grilling for a mouthwatering glaze.
- These kabobs are easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
What You’ll Need
Gather your ingredients for these delicious kabobs:
For the Chicken
- 2.5 chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 1/4 cups BBQ sauce (I use Sweet Baby Ray’s for a classic flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Bacon
- 1 lb bacon, cut into 4-inch pieces
For the Pineapple
- 1 large pineapple, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks
For Finishing
- 2/3 cup BBQ sauce (reserved specifically for brushing during the last 5 minutes)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken thighs can replace chicken breasts.
- Any BBQ sauce works; consider homemade.
- Substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Lime juice can be swapped for lemon juice.
How to Make It
Get ready to enjoy these flavorful kabobs with these simple steps:
Prepare the Marinade
Combine the chicken cubes, 1 1/4 cups BBQ sauce, and smoked paprika in a bowl. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes for maximum flavor.
Assemble the Kabobs
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, alternating with bacon pieces and pineapple chunks as you go. Be sure to fit them snugly but not too tightly.
Grill the Kabobs
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the assembled kabobs on the grill and cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Brush with BBQ Sauce
In the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the kabobs generously with the reserved BBQ sauce for added flavor and glaze.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the texture changes drastically upon thawing.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 1–2 minutes or grill briefly until warm.
Tips for Best Results
- Use thinly sliced bacon to ensure it cooks evenly around the chicken.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Adjust the cooking time if using a different type of grill or larger pieces of chicken.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for an extra pop of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Pair with grilled corn on the cob for a complete BBQ experience.
- Enjoy with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade.
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