Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs! 🌺 I can still remember the first time I made these vibrant little skewers for a family barbecue. The sun was shining, the sound of laughter filled the air, and with every bite, I was transported to a tropical paradise! The sweet, juicy pineapple paired with the savory marinated chicken is enough to make anyone swoon. Plus, they’re super easy to prepare, which means more time for you to enjoy the company instead of being stuck in the kitchen.
Every summer, I whip these up and they never fail to impress, whether it’s with friends around the grill or at a potluck where everyone begs for the recipe. They’re like a little vacation on a stick! Let’s take a look at how to create this delicious dish, shall we?
What’s in Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: This is the star of the show! I like to use chicken breasts because they grill up perfectly and absorb all those wonderful flavors from the marinade.
Pineapple Chunks: Use fresh or canned, depending on availability. Fresh pineapple can really elevate the flavor profile, lending a juicy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
Teriyaki Sauce: This is where the magic happens! It adds a delicious sweet and savory glaze. If I have a little extra sauce on hand, I love to baste the kabobs while they cook to keep them moist.
Olive Oil: Just a tablespoon helps the marinade coat the chicken evenly, plus it’s great for grilling!
Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, and Black Pepper: These aren’t just for seasoning; they bring depth and flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Salt: To taste, because even the best dishes can benefit from a little seasoning.
Fresh Parsley: This is entirely optional, but I think it adds a lovely pop of green and brightness to the dish when serving.
Skewers: Whether you’re using wooden or metal skewers, they’re essential for this whole kabob experience!
Is Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Good for You?
You bet! This dish is filled with lean protein and nutrient-rich pineapple, making it a healthier option for your grilling adventures.
Chicken: A fantastic source of lean protein, it helps build muscle and keeps you satisfied.
Pineapple: Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Plus, it aids digestion due to the enzyme bromelain.
However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, be mindful of how much teriyaki sauce you use, as it can be high in sodium. Opting for a low-sodium version or making your own can easily solve this issue!
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (plus extra for basting)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Skewers (wooden or metal)
This recipe will serve about 4 people, depending on how hungry everyone is!
How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?
1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with teriyaki sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor). I promise the longer you marinate, the better!
2. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
3. Thread the marinated chicken cubes and pineapple chunks alternately onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for that nice, even cooking.
4. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. You want those nice grill marks and for the chicken to be cooked through. Don’t forget to brush them with extra teriyaki sauce while they’re grilling!
5. Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. I usually can’t wait to dig in, but a little patience goes a long way!
6. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, serve warm, and enjoy your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs!
Aloha to Flavorful Variations!
Want to switch things up? You can add bell peppers, onions, or even cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor! If you’re a fan of spice, toss on some red pepper flakes or marinade the chicken in a spicy sauce. These kabobs are great for meal prep, too, so feel free to make a bunch ahead of time.
I really hope you give these Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs a try. They’re the perfect dish for bringing friends and family together, and trust me, you won’t hear any complaints! Don’t forget to share your own twists or let me know how they turned out! Happy grilling!
