BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Skewers with Bell Peppers
Tender marinated chicken chunks paired with crispy bacon, sweet pineapple, and colorful bell peppers on grilled skewers. The combination of smoky BBQ flavors with the sweetness of pineapple creates a perfect balance for summer cookouts and family gatherings. Pre-cooking the bacon ensures it crisps properly while the chicken stays juicy, making these skewers a crowd-pleasing main dish that brings together classic barbecue elements in an easy-to-serve format.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Combine chicken pieces with 1 cup of BBQ sauce and marinate for 2-3 hours
- 2
Microwave bacon for 2-5 minutes depending on thickness, then let cool slightly
- 3
Thread chicken, bacon pieces, peppers, and pineapple onto wood skewers, folding bacon loosely in half
- 4
Grill kabobs until chicken reaches 160 degrees F
- 5
Optionally spread remaining BBQ sauce on kebabs when almost cooked or drizzle over platter
- 6
Remove from grill, cover loosely with foil and let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving
Tips
Pre-cook bacon in microwave to ensure it crisps properly while chicken finishes cooking on the grill.
Use larger pineapple chunks as they are easier to skewer and hold their shape better during grilling.
Don't over-pack ingredients on skewers since bacon will expand as it cooks.
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked skewers for up to 3 days in airtight container
Marinate chicken and prep vegetables day before, assemble skewers morning of cooking
Serve immediately after resting, with extra BBQ sauce on the side
Common Mistakes
Don't skip pre-cooking bacon or it won't crisp properly during grilling
Don't over-pack skewers to avoid uneven cooking
Use meat thermometer to avoid overcooking chicken
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make these in the oven instead?
Yes, bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through until chicken reaches 160°F internal temperature.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for 2-3 hours as suggested, or up to 24 hours maximum. Longer marinating can make the chicken mushy.
Can I freeze the assembled skewers?
Yes, freeze uncooked assembled skewers for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before grilling and add extra cooking time if needed.