Mouthwatering Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Prepare to transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched islands of Hawaii with these mouthwatering Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs. Juicy chunks of marinated chicken are interspersed with vibrant pineapple and sizzling peppers, creating a flavor explosion that will have your guests clamoring for more.
These kabobs are the ultimate summer grilling companion, blending the sweet and savory notes of a classic Hawaiian-inspired dish with the convenience of a simple, no-fuss preparation. Whether you’re hosting a backyard luau or simply craving a taste of the tropics, these kabobs are sure to become a new family favorite.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
There’s a reason why Hawaiian-inspired dishes like these kabobs have become perennial crowd-pleasers. The combination of tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and crisp vegetables creates a textural contrast that delights the senses. Plus, the marinade infuses the ingredients with a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that will have your taste buds dancing.
What’s more, this recipe is incredibly versatile and accessible. The ingredients are easy to find, and the preparation is straightforward, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. And with the option to prepare the kabobs in advance, you can enjoy the convenience of a make-ahead meal without sacrificing flavor.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs ❓
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and black pepper to taste
The beauty of this Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of juicy pineapple, savory teriyaki, and aromatic garlic and ginger creates the delightful Hawaiian-inspired flavor profile that has made these kabob recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, bell pepper pieces, and onion onto skewers, alternating the ingredients.
• Step 3: Grill the kabobs for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
• Step 4: Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh pineapple or chopped green onions, if desired.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Marinating time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
• Total time: 57-87 minutes
Compared to traditional Hawaiian dishes which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs recipe saves you over 30% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 785mg
These Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs provide approximately 36% of your daily protein requirements and 13% of your daily carbohydrate needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Substitute the pineapple chunks with grilled zucchini or mushrooms, and use a sugar-free teriyaki sauce to lower the carbohydrate count.
• Dairy-free adaptation: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but be sure to use a vegan-friendly teriyaki sauce if needed.
• Added protein: Incorporate cubes of tofu or shrimp alongside the chicken for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Add cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or baby corn to the kabobs for an additional serving of veggies.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair the kabobs with a fresh pineapple salsa or a crisp Asian-inspired slaw for a complementary side dish.
• Complement the kabobs with a light, refreshing cucumber salad or a tropical fruit salad for a balanced and satisfying spread.
• For a luau-inspired gathering, serve the kabobs alongside grilled pineapple slices, coconut rice, and a tropical cocktail like a Mai Tai or Piña Colada.
• Create a colorful and inviting kabob platter by arranging the skewers on a large serving tray, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Cutting the ingredients unevenly: For the best visual appeal and consistent cooking, aim to cut the chicken, pineapple, and vegetables into uniform 1-inch pieces.
• Skimping on the marinade: Don’t be afraid to let the chicken soak up the flavorful teriyaki-based marinade for at least 30 minutes to an hour before grilling.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Leave a bit of space between the ingredients on each skewer to allow for even heat distribution and caramelization.
• Forgetting to let the kabobs rest: Allow the grilled kabobs to rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure the juices are reabsorbed, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Assemble the raw kabobs on skewers, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen kabobs to a resealable bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.
• Freezing baked: Allow the grilled kabobs to cool completely, then carefully slide the ingredients off the skewers and into an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the cooked kabobs in a 350°F oven or on the grill until warmed through, taking care not to overcook the ingredients.
❓ FAQs
Can I prepare the kabobs in advance?
Absolutely! The kabobs can be assembled and marinated up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate the marinated chicken and vegetables until ready to thread onto the skewers and grill. This makes them an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Can I substitute the chicken with a different protein?
Yes, you can easily swap out the chicken for other proteins, such as shrimp, pork, or even firm tofu. Just be sure to adjust the marinating time and cooking duration as needed to accommodate the different ingredients. The key is to create a balanced combination of protein, fruit, and vegetables on each skewer.
Are these kabobs suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?
With a few simple modifications, you can easily adapt this recipe to be low-carb or keto-friendly. Replace the pineapple chunks with grilled zucchini or mushrooms, and use a sugar-free teriyaki sauce or marinade. These adjustments will significantly reduce the carbohydrate content while preserving the delicious Hawaiian-inspired flavors.
What if I don’t have skewers on hand?
No problem! If you don’t have metal or wooden skewers, you can still enjoy the flavors of these kabobs. Simply toss the marinated chicken, pineapple, and vegetables in a grill basket or on a foil-lined baking sheet and grill or roast them until cooked through. The end result may not be as visually appealing, but the taste will still be just as delicious.
Can I add any additional ingredients to the kabobs?
Absolutely! These kabobs are highly versatile, allowing you to customize them to your liking. Try adding cherry tomatoes, baby corn, or asparagus for extra color and nutrition. You can also experiment with different types of peppers, such as jalapeño or shishito, to adjust the level of spice. Just be mindful of the cooking times for any additional ingredients you choose to include.
Conclusion
These Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as the main course for a backyard luau or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at a summer gathering, they’re sure to impress with their juicy, tropical-inspired flavors. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the grilling process. So fire up your grill, gather your friends and family, and get ready to savor the taste of the islands with every bite of these mouthwatering kabobs.
Print
Mouthwatering Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
- Total Time: 57-87 minutes
Ingredients
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
• Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
• Step 2: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, bell pepper pieces, and onion onto skewers, alternating the ingredients.
• Step 3: Grill the kabobs for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
• Step 4: Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh pineapple or chopped green onions, if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: Americans
Keywords: Mouthwatering Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
