When you think of tropical vibes, juicy grilled chicken, and sweet, tangy flavor, Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are pure sunshine on a stick. Juicy chicken, fresh pineapple, bell peppers, and a tangy-sweet marinade—these kebabs bring island flavor to your backyard grill, weeknight dinner, or weekend party with minimal effort and maximum payout.
Table of Contents
🌞 Why You’ll Love Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs
- Balanced textures & flavors: savory chicken, juicy pineapple, crisp veggies
- Tropical marinade: sweet, tart, a touch of heat
- Make-ahead ease: prep in the morning, grill at dinnertime
- Colorful & fun: perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, and family meals
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast or thigh | 1.5 lb, cut into 1-inch cubes |
| Fresh pineapple | 1 cup, cubed |
| Bell peppers (red, yellow, green) | 1 each, cubed |
| Red onion | 1 small, cut into wedges |
| Wooden skewers | 8–10 soaked in water |
🍍 For the Marinade
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pineapple juice | ¾ cup |
| Soy sauce | ¼ cup |
| Brown sugar | 2 tbsp |
| Ketchup | 2 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 tsp |
| Sriracha or chili flakes | 1 tsp (optional, for heat) |
👩🍳 How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs
1. Whip Up the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, olive oil, garlic, ginger, and heat until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Toss the chicken cubes in marinade. Cover and chill for at least 1–2 hours (overnight for extra flavor).
3. Assemble the Kebabs
Alternate threading chicken, pineapple, bell peppers, and onion onto each skewer. Leave space to ensure even cooking.
4. Grill to Perfection
Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill kebabs for 10–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (165°F internal) and slightly charred.
5. Rest & Serve
Let kebabs rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with:
- Steamed rice or coconut rice
- A side salad or grilled corn
- Sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions
🔄 Variations You’ll Love
- Teriyaki Style: Brush on store-bought teriyaki glaze.
- Shrimp Swap: Use large shrimp instead of chicken—grill only 4–5 minutes total.
- Veggie Boost: Add zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms.
- Citrus Kick: Toss finished kebabs with lime juice and zest before serving.
🧊 Make-ahead & Storage Tips
- Advance prep: Marinate chicken up to a day ahead and skewer later.
- Leftovers: Store in fridge up to 3 days; reheat on grill or oven.
- Freeze/Kebab meal prep: Assemble uncooked kebabs with foil between layers, freeze, then grill directly from frozen with added cook time.
❓ FAQ: Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely. Thighs stay juicier and more forgiving on the grill.
Do I need to soak the skewers?
Yes! Soaking prevents wooden skewers from burning or splitting during grilling.
Is it safe to reuse marinade?
Use only marinade not in contact with raw meat. Or boil reserved marinade 3-5 minutes before brushing on cooked kebabs.
Can I bake these indoors?
Yes—bake at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, turning halfway through.
🌴 Final Thoughts: Bring Hawaii Home
These Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are simple, delicious, and perfect for bringing island vibes wherever you are. With a tangy marinade, colorful ingredients, and quick cook time, they’re an easy way to make dinner feel like a getaway.