Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe (with Pineapple!)

Recipe By:
Juliette
Updated:

The Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe (with Pineapple!) is a delightful dish that brings the taste of the tropics right to your grill. Perfect for summer parties, family gatherings, or an easy weeknight dinner, these kabobs are bursting with flavor and color. The combination of juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and sweet pineapple creates a unique taste experience. Plus, they are easy to prepare and cook quickly, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy Preparation: The ingredients come together quickly, allowing you to whip up this meal in no time.
  • Bursting with Flavor: Sweet pineapple and tangy BBQ sauce create a deliciously balanced taste.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Customize the skewers with your favorite vegetables for added variety.
  • Perfect for Gatherings: These kabobs make for fun finger food that everyone will enjoy.
  • Healthy Option: Packed with protein and veggies, they are a nutritious choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything on hand will streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Grill or oven
  • Skewers (wooden or metal)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

  • Grill or oven: Provides even heat for cooking the kabobs to perfection.
  • Skewers: Essential for holding all ingredients together while they cook.
  • Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine sauces and coat the chicken easily.
  • Basting brush: Helps apply sauce evenly on the skewers for enhanced flavor.

Ingredients

For the Kabobs

  • 2 large boneless (skinless chicken breasts cut into 1 inch cubes)
  • 6 baby bella mushrooms (sliced in half)
  • ½ green bell pepper (cut into 1 inch pieces)
  • ½ yellow or orange bell pepper (cut into 1 inch pieces)
  • 12 -1 inch pieces of pineapple
  • ½ red onion (cut into roughly 1 inch pieces)

For the Marinade

  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1-2 teaspoons Tabasco sauce
  • 1 packet KC Masterpiece BBQ sauce and dry rub

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe (with Pineapple!)

Step 1: Preheat the Grill or Oven

Preheat your grill or oven to 450°F. This ensures that the kabobs cook evenly and efficiently.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

  • Dice the vegetables and pineapple into roughly equal-sized pieces, about 1 inch.
  • Slice the baby bella mushrooms in half.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the pineapple juice, Tabasco sauce, BBQ sauce, and dry rub.
  • Place the chicken cubes in another bowl and mix them with half of this sauce.
  • Note: Do not marinate the chicken; use it immediately as pineapple can make it mushy.

Step 4: Assemble Your Skewers

  • On each skewer, thread half a mushroom, three pieces of red onion, one piece of bell pepper, one piece of pineapple, and one chicken cube.
  • Repeat until each skewer is filled but not overcrowded. Brush with remaining sauce and season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Cook the Kabobs

Place the skewers on your hot grill. Cook them for about 5–8 minutes on each side until the chicken is fully cooked through. Enjoy your flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe (with Pineapple!)

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are not just a treat for the taste buds; they also offer a visual feast. Serving them creatively can enhance the dining experience for you and your guests.

On a Platter

  • Arrange skewers on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of color.

With Dipping Sauces

  • Serve alongside additional BBQ sauce or a sweet chili sauce to add extra flavor. A tangy yogurt dip works well too!

Over Rice

  • Place the kabobs over a bed of coconut or jasmine rice. The rice absorbs the delicious juices and adds texture.

In Tacos

  • Remove the chicken and veggies from the skewers and serve them in soft tortillas with avocado and salsa for a fun twist.

With Grilled Vegetables

  • Pair kabobs with grilled asparagus, zucchini, or corn on the cob for a complete meal that’s both healthy and colorful.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe (with Pineapple!)

To ensure your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs turn out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips:

  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and ripe pineapple will enhance flavors and textures in your kabobs.
  • Cut evenly: Ensure all your vegetables and chicken are cut into similar sizes. This helps everything cook evenly.
  • Soak skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
  • Watch the grill temperature: Make sure your grill is hot enough; this ensures that the chicken cooks through without becoming dry.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe (with Pineapple!)

Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty options to complement this dish:

  1. Coconut Rice
    A sweet and creamy rice dish that pairs perfectly with the flavors of the kabobs.
  2. Coleslaw
    A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances out the smoky flavors of the grilled chicken.
  3. Grilled Corn on the Cob
    Sweet corn brushed with butter enhances the tropical vibe of this meal while adding texture.
  4. Quinoa Salad
    A light quinoa salad with lime dressing provides protein and complements the kabob’s flavors nicely.
  5. Fruit Salad
    A refreshing fruit salad with tropical fruits like mango, kiwi, and watermelon adds sweetness to your plate.
  6. Garlic Bread
    Warm garlic bread can be a delightful side, perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce from the kabobs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe (with Pineapple!), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

  • Over-marinating the chicken: Pineapple juice is great for flavor but can make chicken mushy if marinated too long. Mix the chicken with the sauce just before assembling the skewers.
  • Unevenly sized ingredients: If your vegetables and chicken pieces are not cut to a uniform size, they will cook unevenly. Aim for 1-inch pieces for all ingredients.
  • Overpacking the skewers: Stuffing too many ingredients on one skewer can prevent proper cooking. Limit each skewer to about three pieces of protein and veggies for even grilling.
  • Ignoring grill temperature: Cooking on a grill that isn’t hot enough will result in undercooked kabobs. Preheat your grill or oven to 450°F for best results.
  • Skipping seasoning: While BBQ sauce adds flavor, skipping salt and pepper can leave your kabobs bland. Don’t forget to season before grilling!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container.
  • They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe (with Pineapple!)

  • Place kabobs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
  • They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe (with Pineapple!)

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place kabobs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat kabobs on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking regularly.
  • Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and reheat kabobs for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe (with Pineapple!)?

Yes! You can swap out vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes based on your preference.

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless skinless chicken breasts work best as they remain juicy while grilling.

How do I ensure my kabobs don’t stick to the grill?

Make sure your grill is well-oiled before placing the skewers on it. This helps prevent sticking.

Can I use other fruits instead of pineapple?

Absolutely! Mango or peaches would add a delightful sweetness that complements the chicken well.

Final Thoughts

The Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe (with Pineapple!) is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a summer barbecue. With options for customization, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dish!

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Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Recipe (with Pineapple!)

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs with Pineapple are a vibrant and delicious way to bring a taste of the tropics to your table. These kabobs are perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal. The juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and colorful vegetables come together for a delightful flavor explosion that’s both satisfying and visually appealing. Easy to prepare and grill, these kabobs make a fantastic finger food option that everyone will love. Plus, they’re nutritious, packed with protein and veggies, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious cooks.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
  • 6 baby bella mushrooms (halved)
  • ½ green bell pepper (cubed)
  • ½ yellow bell pepper (cubed)
  • 12 pieces of pineapple (1-inch cubes)
  • ½ red onion (cubed)
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 12 teaspoons Tabasco sauce
  • BBQ sauce packet

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill or oven to 450°F.
  2. Prepare ingredients by cutting chicken, vegetables, and pineapple into roughly equal-sized cubes.
  3. Mix marinade in a bowl; combine half with chicken cubes without marinating.
  4. Assemble skewers: alternate chicken and vegetables on each skewer.
  5. Grill kabobs for 5-8 minutes per side until fully cooked.
  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 skewers (180g)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Customize with your favorite vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

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