Easy Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Why Make This Recipe

Easy Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are a perfect dish for anyone looking for a fun and tropical twist on traditional grilled chicken. They are simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and can be enjoyed by family and friends. The sweet and tangy sauce, combined with tender chicken and juicy pineapple, makes for a delightful meal. Plus, they are great for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners!

How to Make Easy Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup coconut aminos
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Frank’s Red Hot sauce
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
  • 1 1/2 lbs chicken thighs (skinless and boneless)
  • 20 oz can pineapple chunks
  • 6 kabob skewers
  • Sea salt (to taste)
  • Black pepper (to taste)

Directions:

  1. In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, coconut aminos, ketchup, brown sugar, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  2. While the sauce cools, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Add a few spoonfuls of the sauce, seal the bag, and massage to evenly coat the chicken. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
  3. Drain the pineapple and cut pieces similar in size to the chicken. Thread the chicken and pineapple onto six skewers, then season with sea salt and pepper.
  4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the kabobs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with sauce.
  5. Serve with the remaining sauce on the side for dipping.

How to Serve Easy Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

These kabobs are versatile and can be served in many ways. Enjoy them straight off the grill with a side of rice or salad. You can also serve them as an appetizer for parties or gatherings, making them ideal for barbecues or outdoor events. Pair them with some fresh fruit or a refreshing drink to complete the tropical theme!

How to Store Easy Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

If you have leftover kabobs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them on the grill or in a microwave until warm. Avoid refreezing them after they have been cooked.

Tips to Make Easy Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

  • For more flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
  • You can add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the skewers for extra color and taste.
  • Make sure your grill is hot before adding the kabobs for better searing.

Variation

Feel free to swap chicken thighs for chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat. You can also use shrimp or tofu for a different protein option, adapting the sauce to fit your tastes.

FAQs

1. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

2. Do I need to soak bamboo skewers?
If using bamboo skewers, it’s a good idea to soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

3. Can I bake these kabobs instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Delicious Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs with pineapple and colorful bell peppers

Easy Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Delightful and easy Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs featuring tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and a sweet tangy sauce, perfect for grilling.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Grilled, Hawaiian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the sauce
  • 3/4 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup coconut aminos
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Frank’s Red Hot sauce
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
For the kabobs
  • 1.5 lbs chicken thighs (skinless and boneless)
  • 20 oz can pineapple chunks
  • 6 pieces kabob skewers Soak in water for 30 minutes if using bamboo skewers
  • Sea salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, coconut aminos, ketchup, brown sugar, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  2. While the sauce cools, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Add a few spoonfuls of the sauce, seal the bag, and massage to evenly coat the chicken. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
  3. Drain the pineapple and cut pieces similar in size to the chicken.
Cooking
  1. Thread the chicken and pineapple onto six skewers, then season with sea salt and pepper.
  2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the kabobs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with sauce.
Serving
  1. Serve with the remaining sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

For best flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. You can add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the skewers for extra color and taste. Make sure your grill is hot before adding the kabobs for better searing. If leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the grill or in a microwave until warm. Avoid refreezing after cooked.

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