Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe: Sweet, Savory, and Perfect for Grilling
If you’re looking for a colorful, flavorful dish that brings tropical vibes to your dinner table, look no further than this Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs recipe. Juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and fresh bell peppers are threaded onto skewers, marinated in a mouthwatering sauce, and grilled to perfection. These kabobs are ideal for summer BBQs, weeknight meals, or anytime you’re craving something fun and fresh.
🌴 Why You’ll Love Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The tropical marinade, made with pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic, gives the chicken a tender texture and caramelized finish. Paired with vibrant vegetables and juicy pineapple chunks, this dish is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds.
Whether you’re cooking outdoors on the grill or indoors with a grill pan, these kabobs are simple to make and full of island-inspired flavor.
🍍 Ingredients
For the kabobs:
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
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1 red bell pepper (chopped)
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1 green bell pepper (chopped)
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1 red onion (chopped)
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1½ cups fresh pineapple chunks
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Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Hawaiian marinade:
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½ cup pineapple juice
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¼ cup soy sauce
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 garlic cloves (minced)
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1 tsp grated fresh ginger
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1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
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Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
🔥 How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Step 1: Prepare the marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, ginger, and vinegar. Set aside a few tablespoons for basting (store separately).
Step 2: Marinate the chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—or overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the kabobs
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple, and vegetables onto the skewers in an alternating pattern.
Step 4: Grill the kabobs
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates and grill the kabobs for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally. Baste with reserved marinade and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Serve hot with rice, grilled corn, or a light salad. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
✅ Tips for the Best Kabobs
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Use fresh pineapple: It holds its shape and tastes better than canned.
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Cut evenly: Uniform pieces help everything cook at the same rate.
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Don’t overcrowd the skewers: Leave a little space between each ingredient for even grilling.
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No grill? Use a stovetop grill pan or broil in the oven.
🥗 What to Serve with Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
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Steamed jasmine or coconut rice
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Grilled vegetables or corn on the cob
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Fresh fruit salad with mango and papaya
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Hawaiian rolls or garlic bread
These kabobs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide range of side dishes!
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are the ultimate combination of flavor, color, and simplicity. With their juicy grilled chicken, sweet pineapple, and tangy marinade, they bring a tropical twist to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or cooking a quick family dinner, this easy recipe will transport your taste buds to the islands.
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