Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs: Sweet, Savory, and Perfect for Grilling

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with tender, juicy chicken and crisp vegetables. Perfect for backyard barbecues, weeknight dinners, or casual gatherings, these kebabs bring tropical flavors straight to your plate. The combination of a sweet-and-savory marinade, colorful bell peppers, onions, and juicy pineapple chunks makes every bite a burst of flavor. This recipe is easy to follow, customizable, and delivers restaurant-quality results without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are versatile and fun to prepare. Marinating the chicken in a mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple juice ensures it’s flavorful and tender. Skewering the chicken with bell peppers, onions, and pineapple adds color, texture, and natural sweetness. The kebabs cook quickly on a grill or in the oven, making them ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining friends. This recipe also allows flexibility—you can adjust the level of sweetness, spice, or add extra vegetables according to your taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for about 4 servings:
• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup canned pineapple juice
• Chicken pieces (bite-sized, about 1–2 pounds of boneless chicken breast or thigh)
• Bell peppers (any color, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Onions (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
The key to success is in the marinade, which balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Chicken provides protein and absorbs the flavors beautifully. Bell peppers and onions add crunch and color, while pineapple adds natural sweetness and juiciness, enhancing the tropical flavor profile.

Method

Follow these steps to prepare perfectly cooked Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine ketchup, dark brown sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple juice. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth. This creates a balanced, flavorful marinade that will tenderize the chicken and infuse it with sweetness and umami.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the bite-sized chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning. Alternate threading chicken, bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks onto each skewer. Be sure not to overcrowd the skewers to allow even cooking.
4. Preheat the Grill or Oven: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. If using the oven, preheat to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
5. Cook the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill or baking sheet. Grill or bake for 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The vegetables should be tender but slightly crisp, and the pineapple should caramelize slightly. Brush with additional marinade during cooking for extra flavor.
6. Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill or oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Pair with rice, quinoa, or a light salad for a complete tropical meal.

Tips for Success

Use fresh, ripe pineapple for the best sweetness and juiciness. If using canned pineapple, choose chunks packed in juice rather than syrup to avoid excessive sweetness. Don’t overcrowd the skewers to ensure even cooking and proper caramelization. Keep an eye on the grill or oven, as sugar in the marinade can cause the chicken and pineapple to burn if cooked too long. Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness but even 1–2 hours will yield a delicious result.

Variations

Experiment with different vegetables such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for added variety. Swap chicken for shrimp or firm tofu for a different protein option. For a spicy twist, add a teaspoon of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade. If you prefer a smoky flavor, grill the kebabs over charcoal instead of gas or oven-bake them. You can also serve the kebabs with a dipping sauce like teriyaki glaze or a tangy yogurt sauce for extra dimension.

Health Benefits

This dish provides a balance of protein, vitamins, and antioxidants. Chicken is a lean protein that supports muscle maintenance and overall health. Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, while onions provide fiber and flavor without added calories. Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and adds natural sweetness without refined sugar. Using low-sodium soy sauce helps control sodium intake, making this a healthier alternative to many pre-made marinades.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, remove the chicken and vegetables from the skewers and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Skewered kebabs are best served fresh, as reheating on skewers may dry out the chicken slightly.

Make-Ahead Tips

Marinate the chicken and cut the vegetables in advance to save time on the day of cooking. You can assemble the skewers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before cooking. Soaking wooden skewers ahead of time ensures they don’t burn during grilling. Having everything prepped allows you to cook the kebabs quickly and serve them fresh, making it perfect for parties or busy weeknights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but thaw completely before marinating to ensure even cooking and proper flavor absorption.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce to make the marinade suitable for gluten-free diets.
3. Can I bake the kebabs instead of grilling? Absolutely. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10–15 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
4. How do I prevent the pineapple from burning? Pineapple contains natural sugars that can burn quickly. Cook kebabs over medium heat and turn frequently. You can also brush pineapple with a little olive oil to reduce direct caramelization.
5. Can I use other fruits? Yes, mango or peach chunks work well as tropical alternatives for variety.
6. How long should I marinate the chicken? At least 1–2 hours for flavor, but overnight marinating yields the best results.

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Conclusion

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that bring tropical vibes to any meal. The combination of marinated chicken, colorful vegetables, and juicy pineapple creates a dish that’s visually appealing, packed with flavor, and quick to prepare. Whether grilling outdoors, baking in the oven, or serving for a casual dinner at home, these kebabs are sure to become a favorite. With simple ingredients, straightforward preparation, and tips for customization, you can enjoy a delicious, healthy, and satisfying tropical meal anytime.