Hey guys! Get ready to fire up your grills because we're diving into a recipe that's going to be a total flavor explosion: BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs! This isn't just your average kebab recipe; we're talking juicy chicken, crispy bacon, sweet pineapple, all slathered in a tangy BBQ sauce. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a summer cookout, or just want a fun and delicious weeknight dinner, these kabobs are guaranteed to be a hit. So grab your skewers, and let's get grilling!

Why These Kabobs Are a Must-Try

Okay, so why should you even bother with these BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs? Let me tell you, there are tons of reasons! First off, the combination of flavors is seriously addictive. The savory chicken and bacon pair perfectly with the sweetness of the pineapple, and then you add that smoky BBQ sauce? Chef's kiss! Plus, they're super easy to make and customize. Don't like pineapple? Swap it out for bell peppers or onions. Want to kick up the heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your BBQ sauce. The possibilities are endless!

Another reason to love these kabobs is that they're a crowd-pleaser. I've made them for everything from casual family dinners to big summer parties, and they always disappear fast. They're fun to eat, visually appealing, and who can resist anything on a stick? Plus, they're relatively healthy. Grilling is a great way to cook chicken without adding a ton of extra fat, and pineapple is packed with vitamins and antioxidants. So you can feel good about serving these to your friends and family. Seriously, trust me on this one. Once you try these BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs, they'll become a staple in your grilling rotation. They're just that good!

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we get started, let's make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a quick rundown of the essential ingredients for these mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs:

• Chicken: About 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
• Bacon: 1 pound of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces. I recommend using thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and crispiness.
• Pineapple: 1 fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks. You can also use canned pineapple chunks, but fresh pineapple tastes so much better!
• BBQ Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce. I like to use a tangy, smoky sauce, but feel free to use whatever you like best.
• Olive Oil: A couple of tablespoons for drizzling.
• Spices: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
• Skewers: Wooden or metal skewers. If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and walk through how to make these amazing BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs. Follow these simple steps, and you'll be grilling like a pro in no time!

1. Prep the Chicken: Start by cutting your chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well to make sure all the chicken pieces are evenly coated.
2. Prep the Pineapple and Bacon: If you're using a fresh pineapple, peel, core, and cut it into 1-inch chunks. Cut the bacon into 1-inch pieces as well. If you are using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
3. Assemble the Kabobs: Now comes the fun part! Thread the chicken, bacon, and pineapple onto the skewers, alternating between the ingredients. You can arrange them in any order you like, but I usually go for chicken, bacon, pineapple, and repeat.
4. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450°F). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the kabobs from sticking.
5. Grill the Kabobs: Place the kabobs on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the kabobs generously with BBQ sauce.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve them hot off the grill with extra BBQ sauce on the side, if desired. Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Kabobs

Want to take your BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure they turn out perfectly every time:

• Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will help to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with delicious BBQ flavor.
• Use High-Quality Bacon: The better the bacon, the better the kabobs. I recommend using thick-cut bacon for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using bacon that is too thin, as it will likely burn before the chicken is cooked through.
• Don't Overcrowd the Skewers: Make sure to leave a little space between the ingredients on the skewers. This will allow the heat to circulate evenly and ensure that everything cooks properly.
• Control the Heat: Keep a close eye on the grill temperature to prevent the kabobs from burning. If the grill gets too hot, reduce the heat or move the kabobs to a cooler part of the grill.
• Rest the Kabobs: After grilling, let the kabobs rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and help to keep the chicken moist and tender.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about these BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs is that they're so versatile. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique twist on this classic recipe. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Vegetables: Add some chopped vegetables to your skewers, such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. These will add extra flavor, color, and nutrients to your kabobs.
• Different Meats: Swap out the chicken for pork tenderloin, steak, or shrimp. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time accordingly.
• Spicy Kabobs: Kick up the heat by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to your BBQ sauce or using a spicy BBQ sauce. You can also add some sliced jalapeños to the skewers for an extra kick.
• Teriyaki Kabobs: Substitute the BBQ sauce with teriyaki sauce for a delicious Asian-inspired twist. Marinate the chicken in teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes before grilling for the best flavor.
• Honey Garlic Kabobs: Mix together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of ginger for a sweet and savory glaze. Brush the kabobs with the glaze during the last few minutes of grilling.

Serving Suggestions

These BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs are delicious on their own, but they're even better when served with some tasty sides. Here are a few serving suggestions to complete your meal:

• Rice: Serve the kabobs with a side of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or coconut rice.
• Salad: A fresh, crisp salad is the perfect complement to the savory kabobs. Try a simple green salad, a Caesar salad, or a tropical fruit salad.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grill some extra vegetables alongside the kabobs, such as corn on the cob, asparagus, or zucchini.
• Potato Salad: A classic potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser. Try a traditional potato salad or a sweet potato salad for a unique twist.
• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw is a great way to add some crunch and coolness to your meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

Want to get ahead of the game? You can easily prepare these BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs in advance. Simply assemble the kabobs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. When you're ready to cook, just preheat the grill and follow the instructions above.

If you have any leftover kabobs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can either microwave them or grill them for a few minutes until heated through.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! BBQ Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs that are guaranteed to be a hit at your next barbecue or cookout. With their irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, these kabobs are sure to impress your friends and family. So fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable meal!

Enjoy your grilling and remember to always have fun in the kitchen (or in this case, by the grill)! Happy cooking, everyone!