Irresistible Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs for Ultimate Flavor

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by Alexia

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Catch a whiff of the sweet, tropical aroma wafting through your kitchen as you grill up these Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs. Juicy chicken mingles with vibrant vegetables, creating a colorful feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.

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Picture this: it’s a sunny weekend afternoon, and you’re gathered around the grill with family and friends. Laughter fills the air as you serve these kabobs, transporting everyone to a Hawaiian paradise with every bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
  • Bell Peppers: Choose a mix of red, yellow, and green for a colorful presentation and sweet crunch.
  • Pineapple Chunks: Fresh pineapple is best for that juicy sweetness, but canned works too—just drain well.
  • Red Onion: Adds a slight sweetness when grilled; cut into large pieces for easy skewering.
  • Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic gives your marinade an aromatic kick that elevates those flavors to another level.

For the Marinade:

  • Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still delivering that umami punch.
  • Pineapple Juice: Fresh or bottled, it adds sweetness and helps tenderize the chicken beautifully.
  • Honey: A touch of honey balances the savory with sweetness, making each bite irresistible.
  • Ground Ginger: For that warm hint of spice that perfectly complements the tropical flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by cutting your boneless chicken breasts into cubes, about one-inch in size. Then chop your bell peppers and red onion into similar-sized pieces. Finally, get those pineapple chunks ready—all set for skewering!

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, minced garlic cloves, and ground ginger until well combined. This marinade will be the magic potion that transforms plain chicken into something extraordinary.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place your cubed chicken in a resealable bag or bowl and pour in half of your marinade (save the rest for basting). Seal or cover it tightly and let it marinate in the fridge for at least one hour—preferably overnight if you’re feeling ambitious.

Step 4: Assemble Your Kabobs

Now comes the fun part! Thread marinated chicken cubes onto skewers alternately with bell peppers, red onion pieces, and pineapple chunks. Aim for a colorful pattern because who doesn’t love an Insta-worthy meal?

Step 5: Grill Those Kabobs

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Once hot, place your kabobs on the grill grates. Cook them for around 10-12 minutes total, turning occasionally until everything is nicely charred and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer your grilled kabobs to a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining marinade that was set aside earlier during grilling (make sure it’s safe to eat!). Serve hot and watch everyone dig in—they’ll be transported straight to Hawaii!

Now you’re all set to impress your friends and family with these delightful Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs! Enjoy every juicy bite as you bask in compliments like you’re actually sunbathing on Waikiki Beach.

You Must Know

  • This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to infuse it with bold flavors. While the chicken soaks up all that goodness, chop your veggies. Grill the kabobs until golden brown, and voilà—delicious Hawaiian chicken kabobs are ready to impress!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for beef or turkey if that’s what you’ve got. Want a tropical twist? Toss in pineapple chunks or replace the bell peppers with zucchini for a unique flair. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, keeping that juiciness intact.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always let your chicken marinate for at least an hour; overnight is even better for maximum flavor absorption.
  • Make sure not to overcrowd the grill; give those kabobs room to breathe!
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness—165°F is your magic number.

After trying this recipe, my friend claimed they’d never eat boring chicken again. Their enthusiasm was contagious, and I still chuckle every time I think about their dramatic “This is life-changing!” moment at dinner!

FAQs:

What are Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines marinated chicken with colorful vegetables, such as bell peppers and onions. These kabobs are typically grilled to perfection, infusing them with smoky flavors. The marinade often includes pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger, which adds a sweet and savory taste that is synonymous with Hawaiian cuisine. Whether served at a summer barbecue or a family dinner, these kabobs delight everyone at the table.

How do you make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

To make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs, start by cutting chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers alongside chunks of bell peppers and pineapple. Grill them over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked. Serve with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I use beef or turkey for Hawaiian Kabobs?

Absolutely! While chicken is commonly used for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs, you can easily substitute it with beef or turkey. Adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat you choose; beef may require slightly longer grilling time than turkey. The marinade will still complement these meats beautifully, offering the same tropical flavors that make this dish so enjoyable.

What sides go well with Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs pair wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving them with coconut rice to enhance the tropical theme of your meal. A fresh green salad or coleslaw adds crunch and balances flavors nicely. You could also serve grilled corn on the cob or roasted vegetables for a hearty addition to your plate. These sides will complement your kabobs perfectly.

Conclusion for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs:

In summary, Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs offer a delightful blend of flavors that transport you to the islands. With their juicy chicken and colorful vegetables marinated in a delicious mix of ingredients, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether grilled on an outdoor barbecue or prepared in the oven, these kabobs promise satisfaction. Experimenting with different proteins like beef or turkey can add variety while maintaining those beloved tropical flavors. Enjoy this dish with suitable sides for a complete culinary experience!

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Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs


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  • Author: Alexia
  • Total Time: 32 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are your ticket to a tropical escape right from your backyard. These skewers feature tender, marinated chicken paired with colorful bell peppers and juicy pineapple, all grilled to perfection for a delightful burst of flavor. Perfect for summer barbecues or family gatherings, these kabobs are not only visually appealing but also a delicious way to enjoy the taste of Hawaii without leaving home.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 1 red bell pepper (cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • 1 yellow bell pepper (cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • 1 green bell pepper (cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
  • 1 medium red onion (cut into large pieces)
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp ground ginger

Instructions

  1. Cut chicken, vegetables, and pineapple into appropriate sizes.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, minced garlic, and ground ginger to create the marinade.
  3. Marinate chicken for at least one hour in a resealable bag or bowl in the refrigerator.
  4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers alternately with bell peppers, onion pieces, and pineapple chunks.
  5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F). Grill kabobs for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
  6. Serve hot drizzled with any remaining marinade.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 skewers (approximately 200g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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