If you’re craving a burst of tropical sunshine on your plate, this Yummy Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs Recipe will be your new favorite go-to for a fun, flavorful meal. Tender chicken chunks marinated in a sweet and tangy blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and fresh ginger pair perfectly with juicy pineapple and crisp bell peppers, all grilled to smoky perfection. These kebabs are a beautiful balance of savory and sweet, making them an irresistible dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to serve at any casual backyard gathering or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The brilliance of this Yummy Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs Recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients. Each component not only adds its own unique flavor but also contributes to a colorful, vibrant presentation that’s as satisfying to the eyes as it is to the palate.
- Chicken (1 1/2 pounds): Use boneless, skinless breasts or thighs for tender, juicy bites that soak up the marinade beautifully.
- Fresh pineapple chunks (2 cups): The natural sweetness and acidity brighten every skewer, providing a tropical kick.
- Red and green bell peppers (1 each): They add crisp texture and lively colors that make the kebabs visually inviting.
- Red onion (1): Adds a mild sharpness and slight sweetness when grilled, complementing the other ingredients.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Essential for threading your ingredients and grilling evenly.
- Soy sauce (1/3 cup): Brings a savory, umami depth to the marinade, balancing the sweetness.
- Pineapple juice (1/4 cup): Enhances the tropical flavor and helps tenderize the chicken.
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Provides a subtle caramelized sweetness when grilled.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): Adds a smooth, natural sweetness to the marinade.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Offers a gentle tang to brighten the flavor profile.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Imparts a fragrant punch that pairs perfectly with ginger.
- Fresh grated ginger (1 teaspoon): Gives that signature zingy warmth essential to Hawaiian-inspired dishes.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the marinade coat the chicken evenly and prevents sticking on the grill.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
How to Make Yummy Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, olive oil, and black pepper in a medium bowl. This marinade is the heart of the dish, blending sweet, tangy, and savory notes that will soak into the chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Reserve about a quarter cup for basting later, and get ready to transform your chicken into something extraordinary.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Immerse the chicken chunks in the remaining marinade and toss so every piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour; if you have the time, let it go up to six hours for an even more intense flavor boost. This step tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and extra delicious when grilled.
Step 3: Prep the Skewers and Grill
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent any burning on the grill. While they soak, chop your bell peppers, pineapple, and onion into nice, even chunks to ensure balanced cooking. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the chicken and veggies alternately onto the skewers to create a colorful explosion of flavor and texture. Grill for 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with the reserved marinade during the last few minutes to keep everything juicy and flavorful. Look for those lovely grill marks and a fully cooked chicken interior—those are your signs it’s ready!
Step 4: Final Touches
Once grilled perfectly, your Yummy Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs Recipe is ready to be plated. Their enticing aroma and vibrant colors will make it hard to wait before digging in.
How to Serve Yummy Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs Recipe
Garnishes
Consider sprinkling some freshly chopped cilantro or green onions on top to add a bright, herbal freshness. A light drizzle of extra honey or a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving can amplify the tropical vibe. Toasted sesame seeds offer an additional textural delight and a hint of nuttiness.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with fluffy coconut rice or a simple steamed jasmine rice, which will soak up all the delicious juices. Alternatively, a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, helping balance the sweetness and smokiness of the kebabs.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving these kebabs on a wooden plank or a bed of fresh lettuce leaves can instantly elevate the presentation when hosting friends. You could even serve them as a fun appetizer by cutting the kebabs into smaller pieces and laying them out on a platter with tropical fruit slices for an exotic party feel. The possibilities are endless and all delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, any leftover kebabs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the grilled vegetables and chicken together to preserve the lovely mingling of flavors.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these kebabs freeze well. Remove them from the skewers before freezing and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll stay tasty and safe for up to two months.
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep the chicken moist. Microwaving is fine in a pinch, but watch closely to avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually great for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender even after grilling. Just cut them into uniform chunks for even cooking.
Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes helps prevent them from catching fire or burning on the grill so your kebabs cook safely and evenly.
Can I bake the kebabs instead of grilling?
Definitely. Bake your skewers in a preheated oven at 425°F for 20 to 25 minutes, turning once, until the chicken is fully cooked. This is a great alternative if you don’t have access to a grill.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the marinade. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What can I do with leftover marinade?
Since the marinade touched raw chicken, only use the reserved portion that was set aside before adding chicken for basting during grilling. Do not use leftover marinade that’s been in contact with raw meat for sauces or dressing without boiling it first.
Final Thoughts
This Yummy Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs Recipe is a vibrant celebration of flavors that will brighten up any meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these kebabs deliver that perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and smoky. I promise once you try it, it’ll become a regular fixture in your grilling routine. So go ahead, grab those skewers, and let this tropical delight bring some sunshine to your table!
Print
Yummy Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1–6 hours marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes (excluding marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Yummy Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs are a perfect blend of savory marinated chicken and sweet tropical pineapple, grilled to perfection. Ideal for a summer barbecue or a quick weekday dinner, these kebabs are bursting with vibrant colors and flavors that impress every time.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch chunks
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- Wooden or metal skewers
Marinade
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, olive oil, and black pepper. Set aside 1/4 cup of this marinade for basting later.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the remaining marinade, tossing well to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 6 hours to allow flavors to develop.
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning during grilling.
- Assemble Kebabs: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread chicken, pineapple chunks, red and green bell peppers, and red onion alternately onto the skewers to ensure a colorful and balanced presentation.
- Grill Kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally to cook evenly. During the last few minutes, brush the kebabs with the reserved marinade to enhance flavor and moisture. Grill until the chicken is fully cooked and grill marks develop.
- Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and serve immediately. They pair wonderfully with steamed rice or a fresh side salad.
Notes
- For an extra burst of flavor, grill the pineapple chunks separately first to caramelize them before threading onto the skewers.
- If grilling is not an option, bake the kebabs in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes until cooked through.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce to keep this recipe gluten-free.
