Bacon, Pineapple, Chicken Kabobs are a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any grilling occasion. This recipe is a wonderful throwback to summer barbecues with family and friends, where the aroma of grilled meats and fresh pineapple filled the air. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, juicy pineapple, and colorful bell peppers makes for a visually appealing and incredibly tasty meal. This dish is versatile, easy to prepare, and sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and presentation. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a casual dinner, or looking for a fun and delicious meal, these kabobs are a fantastic choice. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to create these delectable Bacon, Pineapple, Chicken Kabobs.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup pineapple juice
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sesame oil
For the Skewers:
1 pound (500 g) chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
16 bacon rashers, trimmed of excess fat and halved lengthways (2 1/2 inch x 1-inch)
3 cups fresh cubed pineapple
1 large red pepper (capsicum), diced into 1-inch pieces
1 large green pepper (capsicum), diced into 1-inch pieces
1 large red onion, diced into 1-inch pieces
Salt and cracked pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Combine Sauce Ingredients:
In a large jug or mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup pineapple juice, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar, 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil.
Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed. This sauce will serve both as a marinade and a basting sauce, providing rich flavor to the kabobs.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
Cut the Chicken:
Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Try to keep the pieces uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
Prepare the Bacon:
Trim any excess fat from the bacon rashers and cut them lengthways into halves, approximately 2 1/2 inches by 1 inch.
Cube the Pineapple:
Cut fresh pineapple into 1-inch cubes. If using canned pineapple, ensure it is well-drained.
Dice the Vegetables:
Dice the red pepper, green pepper, and red onion into 1-inch pieces. These vegetables will add color, flavor, and texture to the kabobs.
Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs
Thread the Skewers:
Thread a piece of red onion onto a skewer, followed by a piece of red pepper, a pineapple cube, a piece of green pepper, a piece of bacon, and a cube of chicken. Wrap the bacon around the chicken piece before threading it onto the skewer. Repeat this pattern until the skewer is full.
Continue threading the ingredients onto the skewers until all the chicken has been used. Ensure that the ingredients are packed tightly but not too crowded.
Marinate the Kabobs:
Place the assembled skewers in a shallow dish or tray. Coat them evenly with half of the prepared marinade. Reserve the remaining half for basting during grilling.
Allow the kabobs to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes. If you have more time, marinate them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
Step 4: Grill the Kabobs
Preheat the Grill:
Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grill is hot before placing the kabobs on it to achieve a good sear.
Oil the Grill:
Brush the grill grates or grill pan with olive oil to prevent sticking and to achieve beautiful grill marks on the kabobs.
Grill the Kabobs:
Place the kabobs on the preheated grill. Grill for about 5 minutes on one side.
Brush 1/4 cup of the reserved marinade over the kabobs.
Turn the kabobs over and brush with the remaining 1/4 cup of marinade. Grill for an additional 4 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve
Check for Doneness:
Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and the bacon is crispy around the edges. The vegetables should be tender and slightly charred.
Serve Immediately:
Remove the kabobs from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Serve the kabobs hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Option:
Replace the chicken with firm tofu or paneer cubes for a vegetarian version. Ensure to marinate them well for maximum flavor.
Different Proteins:
Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or pork for a different take on the kabobs. Adjust cooking times accordingly as different proteins cook at different rates.
Spicy Version:
Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Tropical Twist:
Use a mix of tropical fruits like mango or papaya along with the pineapple for a unique flavor profile.
Herb Infusion:
Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or cilantro to the marinade for added freshness and aroma.
Conclusion
Bacon, Pineapple, Chicken Kabobs are a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them a standout dish for any occasion. The savory taste of chicken and bacon combined with the sweetness of pineapple and the crunch of fresh vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist. This recipe is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for entertaining guests or a special family meal. The marinade infuses the kabobs with rich, bold flavors, and the grilling process adds a delightful smokiness and char. Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or a home cook looking for a new recipe to try, these kabobs are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process of making and sharing this wonderful dish with your loved ones!
