Macro-Friendly BBQ Chicken Kabobs (High Protein)

Today, we're bringing you a mouthwatering recipe for BBQ Chicken Kabobs that will take your taste buds on a delicious  journey. These skewers are bursting with flavors from tender chicken breast, juicy pineapple, and zesty red onions, all marinated in a delectable blend of barbecue sauce, garlic, and soy sauce. Whether you're hosting a backyard gathering or simply craving a delicious meal, these BBQ Chicken Kabobs are sure to become a summer favorite!

Our star ingredient, chicken breast, is the perfect canvas for absorbing all those savory flavors. It's lean, tender, and when combined with the tangy sweetness of pineapple and the slight bite of red onion, it creates a delightful contrast of tastes and textures. The marinade, composed of barbecue sauce, garlic, and soy sauce, adds a rich and smoky element that will leave you craving more with each bite.

As the aroma of these BBQ Chicken Kabobs wafts through the air, you'll find yourself transported to a tropical paradise. The combination of sweet pineapple, charred chicken, and the caramelized edges of the red onions will have your taste buds dancing in delight. So grab your skewers, fire up the grill, and let's dive into this recipe that's guaranteed to make your next barbecue a memorable one!

3 Reasons Why You Will Love This High Protein BBQ Chicken Kabobs Recipe

1. Bursting with Flavor: This recipe is a flavor explosion! The tender chicken breast is marinated in a blend of barbecue sauce, garlic, and soy sauce, infusing every bite with a smoky and savory essence. The addition of juicy pineapple and zesty red onions adds a delightful sweetness and tanginess that complements the chicken perfectly. 
2. Easy and Versatile: Not only does this recipe deliver on taste, but it's also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, including chicken breast, pineapple, red onion, BBQ sauce, garlic, and soy sauce, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. Plus, these BBQ Chicken Kabobs are versatile enough to be enjoyed as a main course, added to salads, or even served as appetizers at your next gathering. It's a hassle-free recipe that guarantees maximum satisfaction.
3. Perfect for Grilling Season: As the weather warms up and grilling season arrives, these BBQ Chicken Kabobs are the ideal addition to your outdoor cooking repertoire. The vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and the sound of sizzling skewers will create an irresistible ambiance. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy evening with your loved ones, these kabobs will bring a touch of summer to your table. With their easy preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors, they are destined to become a staple during your grilling adventures.'

You may also love our macro-friendly BBQ ranch chicken bowl recipe!

Ingredients

• Chicken Breast: Tender and lean, chicken breast is the star of this recipe. It provides a juicy and protein-packed base for the kabobs.
• Pineapple: Juicy and sweet, pineapple adds a burst of tropical flavor to the kabobs. Its natural sweetness balances the savory elements of the marinade and complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
• Red Onion: Zesty and slightly pungent, red onions bring a vibrant color and a mild spiciness to the kabobs. When grilled, they develop a delicious caramelized flavor that adds depth to the overall dish.
• BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite barbecue sauce to marinate the chicken. BBQ sauce adds a rich, smoky, and tangy flavor to the kabobs, infusing them with that classic barbecue taste. I like using G. Hughes BBQ Sauce in the hickory flavor. 
• Garlic: Aromatic and flavorful, garlic enhances the savory profile of the marinade. It adds a subtle hint of pungency that complements the other ingredients and gives the kabobs an irresistible aroma.
• Soy Sauce: The umami-rich soy sauce lends a savory and slightly salty taste to the marinade. It helps to tenderize the chicken and brings a delightful depth of flavor to the kabobs.
• Dijon mustard: The addition of Dijon mustard to the marinade brings a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the BBQ Chicken Kabobs. It complements the other ingredients and adds an extra layer of deliciousness to the dish.

Kitchen Tools Required

• Cutting board 
• Knife
• Small mixing bowl 
• Ziploc bag 
• Aluminum foil/parchment paper 
• Whisk or fork 
• Spoon
• Skewers 
• Basting brush
• Serving platter 

How to Make BBQ Chicken Kabobs 

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, minced garlic, and soy sauce. Whisk or stir well to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and place them in a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all the pieces are coated evenly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Cut the produce: Cut the red onion into 2 inch wedges. If using fresh pineapple, cut into 2 inch pieces. If using canned pineapple, opt for pineapple chunks. 
4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
5. Assemble the Kabobs: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Thread the chicken, pineapple chunks, and red onion pieces onto skewers in alternating order, leaving a small space between each ingredient. Place the assembled kabobs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
6. Place the baking sheet with the kabobs in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the edges are slightly charred. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the kabobs to ensure even browning.
7. If desired, you can brush additional BBQ sauce onto the kabobs during the last 5 minutes of baking for an extra layer of flavor. Flip the kabobs and brush the sauce evenly on all sides.
8. Once the chicken is cooked through and charred, carefully remove the kabobs from the oven. Transfer the kabobs to a serving platter and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
9. Serve the BBQ Chicken Kabobs hot and enjoy!

Swaps or Alternatives

Here are some swaps and alternatives you can consider for the BBQ Chicken Kabobs recipe:

• Meat Alternatives: If you prefer a vegetarian or vegan option, you can substitute the chicken breast with tofu, tempeh, or seitan. Make sure to marinate the meat alternative in the BBQ sauce mixture for a flavorful result.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add more vegetables to the kabobs for added color and variety. Zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms are great options that grill well and complement the flavors of the dish.
• Fruit Swaps: If you're not a fan of pineapple, you can substitute it with other fruits like peaches, mangoes, or even chunks of apple for a different twist.
• Marinade Variations: Experiment with different marinade flavors by adding spices like paprika, cumin, or chili powder for a smoky kick. You can also incorporate herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or cilantro to enhance the overall taste.
• Sauce Choices: While BBQ sauce is a classic choice, you can try different sauces to suit your preference. Teriyaki sauce, honey mustard, or even a spicy buffalo sauce can give your kabobs a unique flavor profile.
• Cooking method: To make this recipe on a grill, simply marinate the chicken breast in the BBQ sauce mixture, thread onto skewers with pineapple and red onion, then grill over medium-high heat for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Enjoy the smoky and delicious flavors of these BBQ Chicken Kabobs straight from the grill!

Quick Tip(s)

Here are some quick tips to keep in mind when making BBQ Chicken Kabobs:

• Soak Wooden Skewers: If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before assembling the kabobs. This helps prevent them from burning in the oven or on the grill.
• Metal skewers: Metal skewers are a great, reusable option! The metal skewers I like to use are 8 inches, although they do come in longer options. 
• Cut Ingredients Uniformly: Ensure that you cut the chicken breast, pineapple, and red onion into uniform pieces. This helps in even cooking and ensures consistent flavors throughout the kabobs.
• Don't Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the chicken while grilling to avoid overcooking. Overcooked chicken breast can become dry, so aim for a juicy and tender result by cooking it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

FAQ’s

Here are some frequently asked questions about BBQ Chicken Kabobs:

Can I use a different type of meat for these kabobs?

Absolutely! While chicken breast is the traditional choice, you can use other cuts of chicken like boneless thighs or drumsticks. You can even try it with shrimp, beef, or pork for a variation in flavors.

Can I make these kabobs ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the kabobs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This makes it convenient for meal prep or entertaining guests.

How can I prevent the chicken from drying out?

To prevent the chicken from drying out, make sure not to overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Basting with BBQ sauce or marinating the chicken beforehand also helps keep it moist.

Can I customize the marinade to my taste preferences?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the marinade ingredients to suit your taste. You can add spices like paprika, cumin, or chili powder for extra flavor, or incorporate herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch.

Can I make these kabobs without using skewers?

Yes, you can! If you don't have skewers, you can grill the chicken, pineapple, and red onion directly on the grill grates. Just be sure to cut the ingredients into larger chunks so they are easy to handle and flip.

How should I serve these BBQ Chicken Kabobs?

BBQ Chicken Kabobs can be served as a main dish accompanied by a side of rice, salad, or grilled vegetables. You can also pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or serve them over a bed of greens for a refreshing salad.

Macros & Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 kabob

Macro Friendly BBQ Chicken Kabobs

Jessie Hulsey

Tender chicken breast, juicy pineapple, and zesty red onions marinated in a mouthwatering blend of BBQ sauce, garlic, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. These grilled kabobs are a perfect addition to your summer cookouts or any time you crave a delicious and easy-to-make meal!

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 12

Calories 160 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Cutting Board
• 1 Knife
• 1 Small Mixing Bowl
• 1 Ziploc bag
• 1 Aluminum foil/parchment paper
• 1 Whisk or fork
• 1 Spoon
• Skewers
• 1 Basting brush
• 1 Serving platter

Ingredients

  

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• 2 lbs. chicken breast, cut into bite sized pieces
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1 large red onion, cut into chunks
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 2 tbsp reduced sodium soy sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, minced garlic, dijon mustard, and soy sauce. Whisk or stir well to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
• Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and place them in a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all the pieces are coated evenly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Cut the produce: Cut the red onion into 2 inch wedges. If using fresh pineapple, cut into 2 inch pieces. If using canned pineapple, opt for pineapple chunks.
• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Assemble the Kabobs: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Thread the chicken, pineapple chunks, and red onion pieces onto skewers in alternating order, leaving a small space between each ingredient. Place the assembled kabobs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
• Place the baking sheet with the kabobs in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the edges are slightly charred. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the kabobs to ensure even browning.
• If desired, you can brush additional BBQ sauce onto the kabobs during the last 5 minutes of baking for an extra layer of flavor. Flip the kabobs and brush the sauce evenly on all sides.
• Once the chicken is cooked through and charred, carefully remove the kabobs from the oven. Transfer the kabobs to a serving platter and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
• Serve the BBQ Chicken Kabobs hot and enjoy!

Notes

• To make this recipe on a grill, simply marinate the chicken breast in the BBQ sauce mixture, thread onto skewers with pineapple and red onion, then grill over medium-high heat for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
• Nutrition information may vary depending on brands and ingredients used.
• The length of skewer used will also make the nutrition information and servings made vary. Calculated nutrition information is based on an 8 inch skewer.

Nutrition

Serving: 1kabobCalories: 160kcalCarbohydrates: 5.9gProtein: 22.8gFat: 5.9g

Keyword high protein, macro friendly

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