Name: Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes); Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned); Bell pepper (red or green, cut into 1-inch pieces); Red onion (cut into wedges); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Red pepper flakes (optional); Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers if using)

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs offer the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors in every bite. Grilled to perfection, these kabobs feature juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and tropical pineapple, making them an ideal dish for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners. With an easy marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, this dish is sure to become a new favorite!

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs bring a tropical paradise to your dinner table. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and smoky grilled vegetables creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, quick to cook, and a fun dish to make, whether you’re cooking for the family or hosting friends. You’ll love how simple yet impressive they are!

Ingredients

Creating Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs is all about using fresh, vibrant ingredients that pack a punch. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Pineapple chunks: Fresh or canned, they add a sweet, juicy contrast to the savory chicken.
Bell pepper: Choose red or green for a pop of color and crunch. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
Red onion: Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor. Cut into wedges for easy grilling.
Soy sauce: This savory base brings umami to the marinade, enhancing the chicken’s flavor.
Honey: A touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
Olive oil: Helps to keep the chicken moist and adds richness to the marinade.
Garlic: Minced for a fragrant kick that elevates the overall taste.
Ground ginger: Adds warmth and a hint of spice, perfect for a tropical dish.
Black pepper: A staple seasoning that enhances all the flavors.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, these can be added to the marinade.
Wooden or metal skewers: Essential for threading your ingredients together. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water to prevent burning.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Marinate the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.
Assemble the Skewers
Once the chicken is marinated, thread the chicken, pineapple chunks, bell pepper pieces, and onion wedges onto the skewers, alternating ingredients for a colorful presentation.
Grill the Kabobs
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks.
Rest and Serve
Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 30 minutes (for marinating)
Cook time: 15 minutes

Variations

Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs: Swap the marinade for a sweet teriyaki sauce to enhance the flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
Spicy Hawaiian Kabobs: Add jalapeño slices or increase the red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Fruit Medley: Try mixing in other fruits like mango or strawberries for a tropical twist.
Gluten-Free Version: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make the kabobs gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the kabobs in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or in the microwave for a few minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

While fresh chicken is ideal, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before marinating to ensure even flavor absorption.

What can I substitute for soy sauce in the marinade?

If you need a soy sauce alternative, coconut aminos offer a similar umami flavor and are a great gluten-free option.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance. Just assemble and grill the kabobs right before serving.

What sides pair well with Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

Serve these kabobs with coconut rice, a fresh green salad, or grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Can I use other vegetables on the kabobs?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to suit your taste.

What type of skewers should I use?

You can use either wooden or metal skewers. Just remember to soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

Can I cook these kabobs in the oven instead of on the grill?

Yes, you can roast them in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until the chicken is cooked through.

How do I prevent the chicken from being dry on the grill?

Make sure the chicken is well-marinated and not overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F, and let the kabobs rest for a few minutes after grilling.

Can I make a bigger batch of kabobs?

Yes, simply double or triple the ingredients and cook the kabobs in batches on the grill.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory goodness of grilled chicken and vegetables. Perfect for family dinners, BBQs, or even a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is simple to make yet bursting with tropical flavors. Whether you enjoy them on their own or paired with coconut rice and a fresh salad, these kabobs will transport you straight to a tropical getaway with every bite. Happy grilling!