30-Minute Pineapple Marinated Chicken Kabobs
Juicy chicken kabobs marinated in a bright pineapple and lemon mixture, then grilled with sweet pineapple chunks and colorful bell peppers. The marinade combines citrus zest, herbs, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, creating tender, flavorful chicken with a tropical twist. Perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or entertaining guests. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates a balanced flavor profile that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breasts, boneless, skinless cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 cup pineapple, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 cup red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 medium lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Place all marinade ingredients with chicken in a large bowl or ziplock bag and marinate for 2 hours minimum up to 24 hours
- 2
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to an hour
- 3
Thread chicken, pineapple, and red bell pepper onto skewers
- 4
Heat grill pan or grill to medium-high heat
- 5
Grill skewers on each side for 2 minutes until nicely browned
- 6
Serve immediately
Tips
Marinate chicken for at least 2 hours but up to 24 hours for maximum flavor penetration and tenderness
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30-60 minutes before threading to prevent burning on the grill
Cut all ingredients into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking and attractive presentation
Good to Know
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
Marinate chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Thread skewers up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate
Serve immediately while hot. Pair with rice, quinoa, or grilled vegetables
Common Mistakes
Don't skip soaking wooden skewers to avoid burning
Don't overcook chicken to avoid dryness - 2 minutes per side is sufficient
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?
Yes, metal skewers work great and don't require soaking. They conduct heat which can help cook chicken more evenly.
What if I don't have a grill or grill pan?
Use a regular skillet over medium-high heat or bake in a 425°F oven for 12-15 minutes, turning once halfway through.
How long will the marinated chicken keep in the fridge?
Marinated chicken should be cooked within 24 hours for best quality and food safety. Don't marinate longer than this.