Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs arenโt just a mealโtheyโre a tropical escape on a stick. At Recipes Tasteful, our journey started with the mission to bring everyday home cooks the kind of meals that light up the table and feed both the body and soul. Our founderโs passion began on the islands of Oahu, where grilled pineapple, sweet marinades, and sizzling chicken skewers were more than street foodโthey were moments of celebration. Thatโs why these Grilled Hawaiian-Style Chicken Skewers are close to our hearts, and now, theyโre about to be a staple on your grill.
Whether youโre prepping for a backyard cookout or craving a weeknight dinner with flair, these Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs bring bold, balanced flavors with every bite. Juicy chicken breast pieces are marinated in a rich blend of soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and garlic, then grilled alongside charred pineapple and bell peppers. The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors is nothing short of magical.
In this article, youโll learn everything you need to perfect this summer favoriteโwhat cut of chicken works best, why pineapple plays a starring role, the ideal marinade formula, and expert grilling tips. Weโll also explore what to serve with your kabobs and how to keep leftovers tasting just as good. Plus, weโll answer common questions like โDo you marinate pineapple for kabobs?โ and โWhich chicken cut is best?โ
So grab your skewersโweโre diving into a world of color, flavor, and island-inspired deliciousness.
The Tropical Magic of Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs
Why Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Are a Grilling Season Favorite
When it comes to warm-weather cooking, Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs consistently steal the spotlight. These colorful skewers are more than just foodโtheyโre an experience. Packed with juicy marinated chicken, sweet caramelized pineapple, and vibrant bell peppers, they bring the spirit of island life right to your backyard grill.
So, what makes these Grilled Hawaiian-Style Chicken Skewers so beloved? For starters, theyโre easy to prepare, cook quickly, and look like something out of a tropical vacation photo. Whether youโre hosting a backyard cookout, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests, these kabobs offer the perfect mix of simplicity and flair.
Another reason they shine is the unbeatable flavor profile. Grilled chicken on its own is delicious, but when itโs soaked in a tangy-sweet Hawaiian marinade and cooked alongside smoky pineapple chunks, the result is pure magic. Each bite delivers layers of juicy, savory, and slightly charred sweetness that feel both comforting and exotic.
Versatility is also a huge plus. You can easily customize Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs to suit your flavor preferencesโgo spicy, sticky, or garlicky. You can even swap the veggies, try different fruit, or serve them with rice or noodles. Itโs this flexibility, combined with the stunning presentation and unforgettable taste, that makes them a go-to grilling dish for so many home cooks.
What Gives Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Their Island-Style Flavor
The real magic of Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs lies in their flavor fusion. Inspired by traditional Hawaiian plate lunches and Asian-Pacific BBQ culture, these skewers strike a beautiful balance of sweet, salty, tangy, and umami.
At the heart of the flavor is the marinade. Itโs a rich, tropical blend made with pineapple juice, soy sauce, dark brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. These ingredients work together to infuse the chicken with bold taste while tenderizing it to juicy perfection. When grilled, the sugars in the marinade caramelize, creating a sticky glaze that clings to the meat and veggies, adding depth and richness with every bite.
Pineapple isnโt just for sweetnessโit adds brightness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the meat. Fresh cubed pineapple chars beautifully on the grill, releasing juices that enhance the overall flavor. Combined with sesame oil and a splash of rice vinegar, the result is a marinade that screams island-style BBQ in all the best ways.
These Grilled Hawaiian-Style Chicken Skewers are the kind of meal that surprises youโnot just with flavor, but with how simple it is to bring the taste of Hawaii home. Itโs not just about throwing meat on sticks; itโs about capturing a vibe, a season, and a sense of celebration in every skewer.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Quick and Tasty Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs That Everyone Will Love
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 9-10 kebabs
- Diet: Halal
Description
Chicken pieces are soaked in a flavorful sweet and tangy Hawaiian marinade, then skewered with pineapple, peppers, and onions. Perfectly grilled for a vibrant and delicious summer meal.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup canned pineapple juice
- 4 Tbsp olive oil, divided, plus more for brushing grill
- 1 1/2 Tbsp rice vinegar
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (4 tsp)
- 1 Tbsp minced ginger
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 3/4 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, chopped into 1 1/4-inch cubes
- 3 cups fresh cubed pineapple (about 3/4 of a 3 lb pineapple)
- 1 1/2 large green bell peppers, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces
- 1 large red onion, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, 2 Tbsp olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, 3/4 tsp pepper, and salt to taste.
- Place chicken in a resealable gallon-size bag. Reserve 1/2 cup of marinade in the refrigerator and pour the remaining marinade over the chicken. Seal and refrigerate for 1 hour.
- Soak 10 wooden skewers in water for 1 hour while chicken marinates.
- Preheat grill to medium heat (400ยฐF/200ยฐC).
- Drizzle the remaining 2 Tbsp olive oil over red onion, bell pepper, and pineapple. Toss to coat. Season onion and pepper with salt and pepper.
- Thread red onion, bell pepper, pineapple, and marinated chicken onto soaked skewers until all chicken is used.
- Brush grill grates with oil and place skewers on grill. Grill for 5 minutes.
- Brush tops of skewers with 1/4 cup reserved marinade. Rotate skewers and brush other side with remaining 1/4 cup marinade.
- Grill an additional 4 minutes or until chicken reaches 165ยฐF (75ยฐC) internally. Serve warm.
Notes
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in cold water for at least 1 hour to prevent burning.
- Use fresh pineapple instead of canned for better flavor and texture.
- Recipe source: Cooking Classy
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kebab
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Key Ingredients for Grilled Hawaiian-Style Chicken Skewers

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Breaking Down the Marinade: What Makes It So Flavorful
The flavor punch in these Grilled Hawaiian-Style Chicken Skewers comes down to one thing: the marinade. Itโs the heart of the dish and the secret to achieving that sweet, savory, tangy profile that defines authentic Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs.
Hereโs a breakdown of the star ingredients and what they bring to the party:
Ingredient | Purpose in the Marinade |
---|---|
Ketchup | Adds body and a sweet tomato base for a rich glaze |
Dark Brown Sugar | Deep sweetness and helps with caramelization on the grill |
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce | Provides salty umami flavor while keeping sodium levels in check |
Pineapple Juice | Infuses tropical sweetness and natural acidity for tenderizing the chicken |
Olive Oil (divided) | Moistens the marinade and prevents sticking on the grill |
Rice Vinegar | Adds a gentle tang to brighten up the flavors |
Garlic (minced) | Aromatic depth and classic savory bite |
Fresh Ginger (minced) | Warm spice and subtle heat, balancing the sweetness |
Sesame Oil | Nutty aroma and traditional Asian-inspired flavor |
Salt & Pepper | Enhances and balances all the other flavors |
This marinade doesnโt just flavor the chickenโit tenderizes it, too. The combination of pineapple juice and vinegar breaks down proteins for a melt-in-your-mouth result. And once that marinated chicken hits the grill, the sugars from the brown sugar and ketchup caramelize into a glossy coating thatโs irresistible.
Youโll want to reserve some marinade before adding the chicken so you can brush it over the skewers while grilling. This creates a layered flavor effect that elevates the dish beyond your average barbecue chicken.
Choosing the Right Chicken Cut for Perfect Kabobs
When it comes to Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, the cut of chicken you choose can make or break the final result. While some recipes use chicken thighs, we recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breast for this specific style. Hereโs why:
- Chicken breast holds its shape well when cubed, making it ideal for threading onto skewers
- It soaks up the marinade quickly and evenly
- Its lean texture pairs beautifully with the sweetness of pineapple and vegetables
- It cooks quickly on the grill without becoming too greasy
That said, if you prefer a slightly richer flavor, you can substitute with boneless chicken thighs. Just keep in mind that they may require a slightly longer grilling time and will result in a juicierโbut fattierโkabob.
For this recipe, we use 1ยพ lbs of chicken breast, chopped into uniform 1ยผ-inch cubes. Keeping the size consistent ensures even cooking and prevents drynessโespecially important when grilling on skewers.
Hereโs a quick guide comparing the two popular cuts:
Chicken Cut | Flavor | Texture | Grilling Time |
---|---|---|---|
Boneless Chicken Breast | Mild, clean | Lean, firm | Faster (8โ10 mins) |
Boneless Chicken Thigh | Rich, more intense | Juicy, soft | Slightly longer |
In short, if you want that perfect bite-sized piece of marinated, grilled goodness with a clean finish, stick with chicken breast for your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs.
How to Marinate for Maximum Flavor
How Long to Marinate Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Safely
Marinating is the secret weapon behind every flavorful bite of Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs. The right amount of time lets the sweet, savory, and tangy notes seep deep into the meatโbut go too far, and you risk mushy chicken or overcured pineapple.
For Grilled Hawaiian-Style Chicken Skewers, the ideal marination time is:
- Minimum: 30 minutes (for a quick flavor coat)
- Recommended: 1 hour (as used in our recipe)
- Maximum: 4โ6 hours (if prepping earlier in the day)
Because our marinade contains pineapple juice and vinegar, both of which are acidic, itโs best not to exceed 6 hours. These acids begin to break down the chickenโs proteins, which can make the meat overly soft and alter the texture.
Quick tip: Always marinate in a non-reactive container like a glass bowl or a resealable plastic bag, and be sure to keep it refrigerated.
Also, set aside ยฝ cup of marinade before it touches the raw chicken. Youโll use this reserved portion to brush over the kabobs during grilling to layer even more flavor.
Marination Time | Flavor Depth | Texture Impact |
---|---|---|
30 mins | Light surface flavor | Slightly tender |
1 hour | Ideal balance | Juicy, flavorful, holds shape |
4+ hours | Strong flavor, juicy | May start to get too soft |
Should You Marinate Pineapple?
This is one of the most common questions about Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs, and the answer is: No, you donโt need to marinate the pineappleโand in most cases, you shouldnโt.
Hereโs why:
- Pineapple is naturally juicy and sweet, and grilling brings out its sugars beautifully on its own.
- Marinating it, especially in acidic mixtures, can break it down too much and make it mushy.
- When over-marinated, pineapple becomes watery and loses its firm biteโruining that caramelized edge we all love.
Instead, hereโs what to do:
- Toss pineapple chunks lightly in olive oil (about 1โ2 tbsp) before grilling.
- Sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper if you want to enhance contrast.
- Thread onto skewers fresh, right next to the chicken and veggies, so it absorbs flavor as it cooks.
The natural sugars in fresh pineapple will caramelize on the grill, balancing the savory chicken beautifully without needing a marinade bath.
So while the chicken gets a full soak, the pineapple just needs a touch of oil and fire to shine in these Grilled Hawaiian-Style Chicken Skewers.
How to Assemble and Grill Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

The Right Way to Thread Kabobs for Even Cooking
Building the perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kabob is more than just skewering random pieces of meat and fruitโitโs about balance, consistency, and smart placement. A well-assembled skewer not only looks beautiful but also cooks evenly, giving you maximum flavor in every bite.
Hereโs how to do it right:
- Use Soaked Wooden Skewers or Metal Skewers
- If youโre using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30โ60 minutes before grilling. This prevents burning.
- Metal skewers are reusable and donโt burnโbut they heat up, so use tongs when flipping.
- Cut Ingredients to Uniform Sizes
- Keep all pieces around 1ยผ inches thick, whether itโs chicken, pineapple, or veggies.
- Uniform sizes help everything cook evenly and finish at the same time.
- Alternate Ingredients for Visual Appeal and Flavor Layering
- Start with a piece of red onion, followed by chicken, then bell pepper, then pineapple. Repeat until the skewer is full.
- This rotation adds a balance of sweetness, savory depth, and charred texture.
- Donโt Overcrowd the Skewers
- Leave a small gap between ingredients to allow heat to circulate and ensure even cooking.
- Overcrowding can result in undercooked centers or uneven grill marks.
Grilling Techniques for Juicy, Evenly Cooked Chicken
With your Grilled Hawaiian-Style Chicken Skewers assembled, itโs time to hit the grill. This is where the marinade magic meets smoky heatโand where timing, temperature, and brushing technique matter most.
Follow these pro grilling steps:
- Preheat Your Grill to Medium Heat (About 400ยฐF / 200ยฐC)
- A hot grill ensures a nice sear and helps prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Use olive oil to brush the grill grates just before adding skewers.
- Place Skewers on the Grill with the Flat Side Down
- Arrange them so that the chicken makes contact with the hottest part of the grill first.
- Close the lid for the first 5 minutes.
- Brush with Reserved Marinade
- After 5 minutes, brush the tops of the kabobs with half the reserved marinade.
- Flip the skewers and brush the other side with the remaining marinade. This step builds a sticky, flavorful glaze.
- Grill 4โ5 More Minutes Until Chicken Hits 165ยฐF
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness. Chicken is safe and juicy at 165ยฐF (75ยฐC).
- Total cooking time should be 9โ10 minutes, depending on thickness.
- Let Them Rest Before Serving
- Once off the grill, let the skewers rest for 2โ3 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and locks in flavor.
Grilling Step | Details |
---|---|
Preheat Grill | 400ยฐF for searing and caramelization |
Grill Time | 5 minutes per side, 9โ10 minutes total |
Internal Temp Goal | 165ยฐF in the thickest part of the chicken |
Brushing Technique | Use reserved marinade after flipping |
Rest Time | 2โ3 minutes after grilling |
Proper grilling is what transforms these skewers from good to unforgettable. With the marinade caramelizing and the pineapple turning golden, Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs become the highlight of any summer table.
Delicious Variations of Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Crockpot Hawaiian Chicken Breast Version (4 Ingredients)
If youโre short on timeโor the weather isnโt grill-friendlyโyou can still enjoy the tropical flavors of Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs using a slow cooker. This version simplifies everything into a 4-ingredient dump-and-go recipe, delivering similar sweet-and-savory results without firing up the grill.
Here are the 4 essential ingredients:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts โ Roughly 1.5 to 2 pounds, cut into chunks or left whole
- Canned Pineapple Chunks with Juice โ Adds both sweetness and acidity
- Barbecue Sauce โ A smoky-sweet base to mimic the grilled glaze
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce โ For that signature umami Hawaiian flavor
Instructions:
- Place the chicken in the crockpot.
- Pour the pineapple chunks with juice over the top.
- Add BBQ sauce and soy sauce, then stir everything to coat.
- Cook on low for 4โ6 hours or high for 2.5โ3 hours until the chicken is tender.
This version doesnโt require threading or marinatingโperfect for meal prep or busy weeknights. While it wonโt have the same charred texture as Grilled Hawaiian-Style Chicken Skewers, the flavor is warm, bold, and incredibly satisfying.
Sweet and Spicy Glaze Options to Try
One of the best parts of working with Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs is how customizable they are. You can easily switch things up by tweaking the glaze or adding heat to balance the sweetness.
Here are a few tasty ideas:
1. Honey Sriracha Glaze
- Add 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of sriracha to the marinade for a bold, sticky-sweet finish.
2. Pineapple Teriyaki Glaze
- Mix extra pineapple juice with teriyaki sauce and a touch of cornstarch. Simmer to thicken, then brush over grilled kabobs.
3. Spicy Mango BBQ Sauce
- Blend ripe mango with BBQ sauce and red chili flakes. A fruity kick with heat that complements grilled chicken beautifully.
4. Garlic Lime Marinade
- Replace pineapple juice with lime juice for a zesty citrus twist, and load up on garlic for depth.
You can also switch up the vegetables:
- Try zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for variety
- Use red and orange bell peppers for a sweeter flavor profile
- Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or fresh chopped cilantro before serving for extra flair
These small changes can give your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs a whole new personality every time you make them.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Hawaiian Chicken Skewers
When youโre serving Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs, what you pair with them matters just as much as the marinade. The smoky-sweet flavor of Grilled Hawaiian-Style Chicken Skewers deserves bold, vibrant sides that either complement or contrast the tropical elements. Whether youโre setting up for a summer cookout or a laid-back weeknight dinner, these perfect pairings elevate the meal into a full-flavored island-inspired feast.
Tropical Sides That Celebrate Island Flavor
The best thing about tropical sides is that they match the energy of the skewersโfresh, colorful, and packed with flavor. These dishes bring out the sweetness of the pineapple and highlight the savory notes of the chicken marinade.
1. Coconut Rice
This simple yet luxurious rice dish is the ultimate sidekick for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs. The mild sweetness of coconut milk balances the tangy glaze on the chicken and makes every bite taste like summer.
Quick Tip: Swap half the water with coconut milk when cooking jasmine rice. Add a pinch of salt and garnish with fresh cilantro or lime zest for brightness.
2. Mango-Cucumber Salad
Crisp, cool, and a little tangy, this side dish is like a palate cleanser that keeps your taste buds excited. Diced mango, cucumber, red onion, lime juice, and chopped mint or cilantro come together for a salad that screams tropical freshness.
3. Grilled Pineapple Spears
You already have pineapple on the skewers, but grilling extra slices brings out even more of that caramelized sweetness. Itโs an easy, crowd-pleasing side thatโs naturally in sync with Grilled Hawaiian-Style Chicken Skewers.
4. Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
A local island BBQ classic, this creamy, tangy pasta salad adds richness to the plate. The mellow flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the kabobs, creating perfect balance.
Classic BBQ Sides That Never Go Out of Style
Not every side needs to come from the islands. Some classic American barbecue dishes pair surprisingly well with Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs, especially when you add small twists like fruit, herbs, or tropical seasonings.
1. Sweet Cornbread
Fluffy and slightly sweet, cornbread is a great way to mop up extra marinade and glaze. Serve warm with a little butter for a comforting, down-home addition to your island BBQ spread.
2. Creamy Potato Salad
Cold, creamy, and richโpotato salad offers a cooling contrast to the heat and spices of the grilled skewers. Add diced pickles or a touch of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.
3. Char-Grilled Veggies
Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers taste amazing when grilled and drizzled with olive oil and sea salt. They add a smoky depth that ties in beautifully with the flavors of Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs.
4. Pineapple Baked Beans
This sweet-savory hybrid mixes smoky baked beans with pineapple chunks for a tropical upgrade to a picnic classic. Itโs hearty, flavorful, and totally on theme.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Tropical vs Classic
Tropical BBQ Sides | Traditional BBQ Sides |
---|---|
Coconut Rice | Sweet Cornbread |
Mango-Cucumber Salad | Creamy Potato Salad |
Grilled Pineapple Spears | Grilled Seasonal Vegetables |
Hawaiian Macaroni Salad | Pineapple Baked Beans |
No matter which route you chooseโtropical, traditional, or a mix of bothโyour Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs will shine. These sides complete the meal without competing with the stars of the show: the marinated, caramelized chicken and pineapple skewers that steal every bite.
Common Mistakes When Grilling Chicken Kabobs
Why Your Chicken Might Be Dry or Chewy
One of the most frustrating things that can happen when making Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs is ending up with dry, rubbery chicken. These skewers should be juicy, tender, and packed with flavorโnot a stringy mess.
Here are the most common causes and how to fix them:
1. Overcooking the Chicken
Chicken breast dries out quickly if left on the grill too long. Since kabobs cook fast over high heat, itโs easy to go from juicy to overdone in under a minute.
Fix it: Always use an instant-read thermometer and pull the chicken off the grill the moment it reaches 165ยฐF (75ยฐC).
2. Inconsistent Chicken Sizes
If your chicken cubes vary in size, smaller pieces will cook faster and dry out before the larger ones are done.
Fix it: Cut chicken into uniform 1ยผ-inch cubes to ensure even cooking from edge to edge.
3. Skipping the Resting Time
Removing kabobs from the grill and serving immediately might seem harmless, but it causes the juices to escape, leading to dry meat.
Fix it: Let the grilled skewers rest for 2โ3 minutes under foil to lock in moisture.
4. Using High Heat Without Oil
Direct flames and no oil? Thatโs a recipe for sticking and tearing. Chicken chunks can lose their beautiful sear and juiciness if they rip apart on the grates.
Fix it: Brush your grill grates with olive oil before adding skewers to prevent sticking.
Mistakes to Avoid With Marinade and Pineapple
Even if your chicken is juicy, other parts of the kabob can fall shortโespecially the pineapple and glaze.
1. Marinating Pineapple Too Long
(Tied to FAQ from Part 3)
As discussed earlier, pineapple doesnโt need marinating. Soaking it in acidic marinade breaks it down, resulting in mushy fruit with no bite.
Fix it: Toss pineapple lightly in olive oil and thread it fresh onto the skewers.
2. Using All the Marinade for Raw Chicken
Many home cooks forget to save marinade for brushing, using the entire batch to soak raw chicken.
Fix it: Always reserve ยฝ cup of marinade before adding chicken to use as a glaze during grilling.
3. Not Flipping the Skewers Properly
Leaving skewers untouched can lead to uneven cookingโburnt on one side, undercooked on the other.
Fix it: Flip the skewers halfway through grilling and brush marinade on both sides for a caramelized finish.
4. Threading Too Tightly
Crowding the skewers prevents proper airflow and causes steaming rather than grilling.
Fix it: Leave small gaps between ingredients to allow for heat circulation and even char.
Avoiding these common pitfalls will ensure your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are juicy, flavorful, and picture-perfect every single time.
How to Store and Reheat Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Storing in the Fridge and Freezer
Youโve grilled a big batch of flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, and now youโve got leftovers. Great newsโthese skewers store beautifully, and you can enjoy them again with very little effort. But like any grilled dish, how you store them makes a big difference.
Hereโs how to do it right:
Refrigerator Storage
- Remove the chicken, pineapple, and vegetables from the skewers (this helps with stacking and airflow).
- Place the pieces in an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of grilling.
- Stored properly, Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs will last up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezer Storage
Want to save a few servings for later? Freezing is totally doable.
- Again, remove ingredients from the skewers and allow them to cool completely.
- Portion into freezer-safe zip-top bags or airtight containers.
- Label and date them. For best flavor, use within 2 months.
- To prevent freezer burn, press out excess air from the bags.
Pro Tip: If freezing cooked skewers, wrap each portion in foil before bagging to help them retain moisture during thawing.
The Best Ways to Reheat Without Drying Out
The last thing you want is to ruin your beautifully marinated chicken by reheating it improperly. Hereโs how to reheat your Grilled Hawaiian-Style Chicken Skewers the right wayโwithout drying out the meat or turning the pineapple soggy.
1. Skillet Reheat (Best Option)
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.
- Sautรฉ chicken, veggies, and pineapple for 4โ5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add a tablespoon of water or pineapple juice to refresh the glaze.
2. Oven Reheat
- Preheat to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
- Place the kabob ingredients on a baking tray lined with foil or parchment.
- Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying.
- Bake for 10โ12 minutes or until heated through.
3. Microwave Reheat (Fastest)
- Not ideal for texture but works in a pinch.
- Place ingredients on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second bursts until warm.
Reheat Method | Texture | Time | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Skillet | Juicy and flavorful | 5โ6 minutes | Maintaining glaze texture |
Oven | Moist and even | 10โ12 mins | Large portions |
Microwave | Soft, less crisp | 1โ2 mins | Speed and convenience |
Avoid reheating multiple times. Only warm up what youโll eat in one sitting to preserve texture and safety.
Properly stored and reheated, your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs will be just as mouthwatering the second time aroundโperfect for lunch, quick dinners, or meal-prep bowls.
Conclusion โ Why Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Deserve a Spot on Your Grill
A Flavorful Go-To for Any Occasion
When it comes to combining convenience, visual appeal, and incredible flavor, Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs truly deliver. With their juicy grilled chicken, sweet pineapple, and savory island-style glaze, these skewers arenโt just a mealโtheyโre a crowd-pleasing experience.
Whether youโre firing up the grill for a weekend cookout, prepping weeknight dinners, or bringing something new to the potluck table, Grilled Hawaiian-Style Chicken Skewers are always a good idea. Theyโre easy to prepare, cook quickly, and can be adapted in endless ways to suit your taste preferences.
From experimenting with spicy glazes to pairing with tropical sides or making a slow-cooker version for busy nights, thereโs no shortage of ways to enjoy these vibrant, versatile skewers. And the best part? Every bite carries that irresistible mix of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors that keeps people coming back for more.
Keep These Tips in Your Back Pocket
To make sure every batch is your best yet, remember the essentials:
- Use uniform cubes of boneless chicken breast for even cooking
- Marinate for at least an hourโbut donโt go overboard
- Keep pineapple out of the marinade and just toss it in oil
- Save some marinade for basting on the grill
- Grill at medium heat and donโt forget to let the kabobs rest after cooking
- Mix and match your side dishes for a complete, satisfying meal
- Store leftovers properly, and reheat with care for second-day perfection
Whether itโs your first time trying this recipe or itโs already part of your familyโs summer rotation, Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs offer the kind of flavor-packed simplicity that every home cook loves. Now that youโve got the know-how and the inspiration, itโs time to skewer, grill, and enjoy!
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FAQโs
Do you marinate pineapple for kabobs?
No, you should not marinate pineapple for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs. While it may seem like a good idea, pineapple is naturally acidic, and when soaked in a marinadeโespecially one containing vinegar or citrusโit can break down too much and become mushy. Instead, lightly toss fresh pineapple cubes in olive oil before grilling. This helps them caramelize beautifully while keeping their firm, juicy texture.
What goes well with Hawaiian chicken kabobs?
Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs pair well with both tropical and classic barbecue sides. Tropical-inspired options like coconut rice, mango-cucumber salad, and Hawaiian mac salad balance the sweet and savory skewers. Traditional BBQ sides such as cornbread, potato salad, and grilled vegetables also complement the smoky, tangy flavor of Grilled Hawaiian-Style Chicken Skewers. For a well-rounded meal, aim for a balance of texturesโsomething creamy, something crispy, and something sweet.
Which cut of chicken is best for kabobs?
The best cut of chicken for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs is boneless, skinless chicken breast. It holds its shape well when cubed, cooks quickly and evenly on the grill, and absorbs marinade flavor beautifully. If you prefer juicier and slightly fattier meat, boneless chicken thighs are also a great option. Just be sure to cut them into uniform chunks to ensure even grilling.
What are the 4 ingredients in Hawaiian chicken breast crockpot?
The 4 essential ingredients for crockpot Hawaiian chicken breast are:
Boneless, skinless chicken breast
Canned pineapple chunks with juice
Barbecue sauce
Low-sodium soy sauce
This easy slow-cooker version captures the flavor of Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs without the grill. Just dump everything into your crockpot and cook on low for 4โ6 hours until the chicken is tender and infused with tropical sweetness.
I feel more confident tackling this now, thanks to you.
I hadnโt considered this angle before. Itโs refreshing!
This topic really needed to be talked about. Thank you.
This helped clarify a lot of questions I had.