Juicy morsels of chicken are beautifully charred on the grill, mingling with vibrant bell peppers and fresh pineapple for a tropical escape. These Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are not only easy to make, taking just 30 minutes, but they also burst with a sweet and savory marinade that perfectly balances the flavors. It’s a dish that the whole family will enjoy, bringing a taste of the islands right to your backyard.
This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner. You can prep the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor and tenderness.
- Grilling the kebabs caramelizes the edges, creating a delicious texture contrast.
- A colorful display of ingredients makes this dish visually appealing.
- It’s a fun and interactive meal that’s perfect for cooking with kids.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these tasty kebabs:
For the Marinade
- ½ cup pineapple juice
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Kebabs
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
Substitution: Use lime juice instead of pineapple juice.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Coconut aminos for soy sauce
- Agave syrup for honey
- Chicken thighs for chicken breasts
- Vegetables of choice for bell peppers
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create delicious kebabs.
Whisk the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Reserve ¼ cup of this mixture for basting later.
Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the remaining marinade over it. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours.
Preheat the Grill
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Thread the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, red onion, and pineapple alternately onto the skewers.
Grill the Kebabs
Grill the kebabs for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the reserved marinade until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Serve Hot
Remove the kebabs from the grill and serve hot with your choice of sides.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, the texture may be compromised.
Reheat: Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Cut vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Let the kebabs rest for a few minutes after grilling for juicier chicken.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with steamed rice or coconut rice for a full meal.
- Serve alongside a refreshing salad for a light option.
- Great for summer barbecues or outdoor gatherings.
