Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs: 5 Irresistible Reasons to Try

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs are the perfect answer to summer grilling cravings. Packed with juicy chicken, charred sweet pineapple, and colorful vegetables, these skewers are bursting with tropical flavors. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend BBQ or looking for a healthier, high-protein dinner option, these kabobs are a showstopper on any table.

Easy to prepare, absolutely delicious, and perfect for all ages, this recipe will quickly become your go-to warm-weather dish. And yes, they’re just as amazing indoors on a grill pan if you’re not cooking outside.

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Introduction to Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs

Picture this: golden grilled chicken glazed in sticky-sweet teriyaki sauce, perfectly balanced with juicy chunks of pineapple, bell peppers, and red onion. Every bite is a mouthwatering mix of savory, sweet, and smoky.

These Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs make grilling easy and fun—even for beginners. Plus, they’re gluten-free friendly and loaded with vibrant color, texture, and flavor. If you love tropical-inspired meals or want to level up your BBQ game, this is the recipe you need to try.

For another easy grilling favorite, try this savory and juicy Malibu Chicken Recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs Recipe

These kabobs are ideal for any occasion, and here’s why:

Fast prep: Marinate, skewer, and grill in under an hour
Healthy & fresh: Lean chicken breast, fresh veggies, and pineapple
Crowd-pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike
Make-ahead friendly: Prep the night before for easy hosting
Customizable: Adjust veggies or use tofu for vegetarian options

They’re perfect for cookouts, weeknight dinners, meal prep, or as a centerpiece dish at your next family gathering.

Who Should Make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs?

This recipe is for:

Busy home cooks looking for a quick but flavorful dish
Grill enthusiasts wanting a colorful, satisfying skewer
Meal preppers searching for protein-packed options
Parents feeding picky eaters (the pineapple always wins!)
Party hosts who want something special without the stress

Even if you’re new to grilling, this recipe is virtually foolproof.

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1½-inch cubes
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1½-inch pieces
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1½-inch pieces
1 red onion, cut into 1½-inch pieces
1½ cups fresh pineapple chunks, about 1-inch wide
1 cup teriyaki sauce, divided
Salt and pepper, to taste
Skewers (metal or wooden skewers soaked for 30 minutes)

Looking for a side dish to match? This refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad is the perfect complement to your kabobs.

Essential Tools You’ll Need

Grill or stovetop grill pan
Sharp knife and cutting board
Basting brush
Mixing bowls
Tongs
Skewers (wooden or metal)
Food thermometer (optional)

Prepping everything in advance makes grilling easier and more fun.

How to Make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs

1. Marinate the chicken
   In a bowl, mix chicken cubes with ½ cup of teriyaki sauce. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes up to 2 hours.
2. Chop the veggies and pineapple
   While the chicken marinates, cut all vegetables and pineapple into evenly sized chunks.
3. Assemble the skewers
   Alternate chicken, pineapple, peppers, and onion on the skewers. Leave space between pieces for even cooking.
4. Preheat the grill
   Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates or brush oil on a grill pan.
5. Grill the kabobs
   Place skewers on the grill. Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is fully cooked and grill marks appear.
6. Baste for extra flavor
   Brush remaining ½ cup of teriyaki sauce over the kabobs during the last 2–3 minutes of grilling.
7. Serve and enjoy
   Plate hot off the grill with your favorite sides.

Serve over coconut or jasmine rice, or pair with these Garlic Herb Braided Bread rolls for a delicious fusion dinner.

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Tips for Making Perfect Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs

Cut evenly: Uniform size ensures even grilling
Use fresh pineapple: It caramelizes better than canned
Baste at the end: To avoid burning the sugars in the sauce
Don’t overcrowd: Leave space on the skewers so heat circulates
Double up: Make extra to save for lunch the next day

Turn leftovers into wraps, bowls, or even pair with Coconut Cream Pancakes for a sweet-savory combo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the marinade
Using canned pineapple (too watery)
Cooking on high heat too early
Forgetting to soak wooden skewers
Overcrowding pieces on the skewers

Avoid these, and you’ll be set up for kabob success!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve these kabobs straight off the grill with a colorful platter of fresh fruit, grilled vegetables, or:

Coconut rice or pineapple fried rice
Mango cucumber slaw
Mexican Style Cucumbers for a refreshing crunch
Creamsicle Float for a fun tropical drink
Butterscotch Steamer as a sweet beverage pairing

Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped scallions for a restaurant-style finish.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

To Store:
Place kabobs (off the skewer) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To Freeze:
Transfer cooled chicken and veggies to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.

To Reheat:
Warm in the microwave or skillet until hot. Add extra teriyaki sauce if desired.

Use leftovers to top a salad or rice bowl—or enjoy them cold in wraps for lunch.

Delicious Variations and Ingredient Swaps

Use chicken thighs for more flavor
Add mushrooms or zucchini for texture
Spice it up with chili flakes or sriracha
Make it vegetarian with tofu or tempeh
Try different fruits: Mango and peach work great too

Looking for a meatless meal? Try these hearty Easy Spinach Stuffed Potatoes.

What to Serve with Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs

Make it a meal with:

Coconut or jasmine rice
Grilled corn
Tropical fruit salad
Croissant Cheesecake Bars for dessert
Shrimp Tacos with Sauce as a seafood sidekick

These sides help balance the sweet-savory profile of the kabobs beautifully.

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Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs FAQs

Can I cook these kabobs in the oven?
Yes, bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, turning once.

Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?
Yes, but choose a high-quality sauce for best flavor.

How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free teriyaki sauce and double-check any seasonings.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers a day ahead.

Final Thoughts on Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to bring tropical flavors to your table, these Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs are guaranteed to delight. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and bold flavor, this dish checks every box for a successful grilled meal.

It’s time to fire up the grill and bring island flavor straight to your backyard.

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