Description
Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Kebabs are a delicious combination of juicy grilled chicken, sweet pineapple, vibrant bell peppers, and red onion, all coated in a smoky-sweet homemade BBQ glaze. Perfect for summer grilling, backyard dinners, and lively family gatherings, these kebabs offer a burst of tropical flavors with every bite.
Ingredients
For the Kebabs:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1½-inch pieces
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 small red onion, cut into chunks
- 8 wooden or metal skewers
For the Hawaiian BBQ Sauce:
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce
- ¼ cup pineapple juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Soak wooden skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Prepare BBQ sauce: Whisk together BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, honey, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper in a bowl until well combined.
- Reserve sauce: Set aside about ¼ cup of the sauce to brush on the kebabs during grilling and for serving.
- Marinate chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the remaining sauce and toss to coat evenly. Let marinate for 20 to 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Assemble kebabs: Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, red and yellow bell peppers, and red onion alternately onto the skewers for a colorful presentation.
- Preheat grill: Heat the grill to medium-high temperature and oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Grill kebabs: Place the kebabs on the grill and cook for 10 to 14 minutes, turning every few minutes so all sides cook evenly and develop a nice char.
- Brush with reserved sauce: During the last 2 to 3 minutes of grilling, brush the kebabs generously with the reserved BBQ sauce for added flavor and glaze.
- Check doneness: Grill until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender with light char marks.
- Rest and serve: Allow the kebabs to rest a few minutes after grilling to let juices redistribute, then serve hot for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Fresh pineapple delivers the best sweet flavor, though canned pineapple works as a substitute.
- Do not reuse marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken unless boiled to kill bacteria.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for juicier kebabs.
- Pair with coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing tropical salad for a complete meal.
- For a spicy twist, add jalapeño slices to the kebabs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian-Inspired, American
