Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just choose pineapple packed in juice, not syrup, for the best flavor balance. Fresh delivers the brightest taste, but canned works if that’s what you have.

What’s the best way to check if the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should be opaque, slightly firm, and have no pink remaining in the center. For extra reassurance, a meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C) when inserted into the chicken.

Can these kabobs be cooked without a grill?

Definitely! Use a grill pan or broil them in the oven. Just keep an eye on them so they get nicely charred and don’t overcook.

Can I use beef or pork instead of chicken?

Sure! Both are delicious options—just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of your meat. Cuts like pork tenderloin or sirloin work especially well.

Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Kabobs Recipe

Transport yourself to a tropical paradise any night of the week with these Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Kabobs. This fun and vibrant dish packs incredible sweet, smoky, and savory flavors into quick-grilling kabobs that are a lifesaver for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. The combination of marinated chicken, juicy pineapple, and colorful veggies creates a meal that looks absolutely gorgeous on your plate and comes together with minimal fuss. If you crave sunshine on your dinner table with zero stress, this is your new go-to recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Easy, Super Fast: With only a bit of prep up front and just minutes on the grill, you’ll have a whole meal ready before you know it.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite has a mix of tangy, sweet, lightly spicy, and smoky goodness that deserves a standing ovation.
Kid and Crowd Friendly: The bright flavors and fun skewers always win over both kids and adults—great for family dinners or impromptu BBQs.
Naturally Healthy: Lean chicken, fresh pineapple, and crisp peppers ensure you’re eating well without feeling weighed down.
Perfect for Prep: Get the kabobs ready ahead of time and just toss them on the grill when you’re ready to eat—no last-minute fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Time to get inspired! Here’s what brings these kabobs to life:

Chicken or Turkey Thighs/Breasts: Chopped into bite-sized cubes—thighs for extra juiciness, breasts for a lighter bite. Lean protein that soaks up flavor beautifully.
Pineapple Chunks and Juice: Both blended into the marinade and cubed for skewering. Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a major tropical vibe.
Bell Peppers/Anaheim/Poblano Peppers: Use your favorite for color and mild heat. For crunch, color, and just a whisper of earthiness.
Red Onion: Adds a bit of sharpness and beautiful char when grilled. Balances the sweet and savory elements.
Ketchup (Low Sugar Preferred): Forms the tangy base of the marinade. Sweetens and deepens the flavor without overwhelming.
Coconut Aminos/Tamari/Soy Sauce: Picks up the umami notes—use what suits your taste or dietary needs. For a savory, slightly salty undertone.
Olive or Avocado Oil: Helps the marinade stick, keeps the chicken moist, and brings a hint of richness.
Fresh Garlic: The bold, aromatic backbone of any great marinade.
Apple Cider Vinegar: For a lively, acidic pop that balances out the sweetness.
Hot Sauce of Choice: Customize the kick—spice lovers can go wild or keep it mild for little ones.
Smoked Paprika: The secret to a lovely smoke-kissed flavor, even on an indoor grill.
Fine Sea Salt: Brings all the flavors together and seasons the ingredients perfectly.
Bamboo Skewers: Remember to soak them! This keeps them from burning and makes grilling a breeze.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Looking to put your own spin on things? Here are a few fun ways to adapt the recipe:

Veggie Swap: Toss on zucchini rounds, cherry tomatoes, or even chunks of mango for more color and flavor.
Protein Options: Try firm tofu or large shrimp for a pescatarian or vegetarian twist.
Sauce it Up: Brush finished kabobs with a glaze of honey and sriracha or a little extra pineapple juice before serving for more shine and sweetness.
Low-Carb Friendly: Skip the pineapple chunks for extra peppers and onions—or try jicama for a bit of crunch with less sugar.
Make it Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a heavier hand with the hot sauce if you like some heat.

How to Make Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Kabobs

Let’s break it down step by step for effortless, mouthwatering results:

Step 1: Blend the Marinade

Pop the ketchup, coconut aminos/tamari/soy sauce, pineapple juice, pineapple chunks, olive or avocado oil, garlic, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, smoked paprika, and sea salt into a blender. Blend until everything is silky smooth and full of tempting aroma.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the cubed chicken (or turkey) in a large bowl. Pour the marinade all over and toss thoroughly to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours—or overnight if you can plan ahead. The longer the soak, the deeper the flavor!

Step 3: Soak the Skewers

While the chicken marinates, place your bamboo skewers in water for a couple of hours. Don’t skip this step—it prevents burning and splintering during grilling.

Step 4: Assemble the Kabobs

Thread the marinated chicken cubes, pineapple chunks, pepper pieces, and onion onto the soaked skewers, alternating for a beautiful rainbow effect. (Little hands love helping with this part!)

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the kabobs on and grill for about 5 minutes per side, rotating as needed, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred in spots. Keep an eye out: you want juicy, golden bites!

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Transfer the kabobs to a platter and get ready for compliments—dig in while they’re hot and juicy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Rush the Marinade: The longer your chicken sits, the better it’ll taste.
Cut Everything Evenly: Uniform pieces help everything cook at the same rate—no dry chicken or raw pineapple!
Rest After Cooking: Let kabobs rest for 3-4 minutes post-grill to keep juices locked in.
Clean the Grill Grates: Prevent sticking by making sure your grill is hot and clean before kabobs hit the heat.

How to Serve

There are endless ways to enjoy these beauties:

Simple and Fresh: Scatter chopped cilantro or green onions over the top for a pop of freshness.
With Sides: Serve alongside coconut rice, quinoa, or a crisp green salad for a full meal.
Wrap It Up: Pull the kabob ingredients off the stick and roll them in a warm tortilla or lettuce leaves for a quick wrap.
Party Platter: Arrange on a big serving tray with lime wedges for squeezing—makes a striking centerpiece at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Remove leftovers from the skewers and store in an airtight container in the fridge—they’ll keep well for up to 3 days without losing tenderness.

Freezing

Freeze marinated, uncooked chicken cubes for up to 3 months (keeps the flavors sharp). Defrost overnight in the fridge, then skewer and grill fresh when needed.

Reheating

Reheat kabob pieces gently (covered) in the microwave, or in a skillet over low heat with a splash of pineapple juice to help keep things juicy.

FAQs

Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just choose pineapple packed in juice, not syrup, for the best flavor balance. Fresh delivers the brightest taste, but canned works if that’s what you have.
What’s the best way to check if the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should be opaque, slightly firm, and have no pink remaining in the center. For extra reassurance, a meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C) when inserted into the chicken.
Can these kabobs be cooked without a grill?

Definitely! Use a grill pan or broil them in the oven. Just keep an eye on them so they get nicely charred and don’t overcook.
Can I use beef or pork instead of chicken?

Sure! Both are delicious options—just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of your meat. Cuts like pork tenderloin or sirloin work especially well.

Final Thoughts

Bright, bold, and bursting with tropical flavor, these Hawaiian Inspired Chicken Kabobs are the kind of quick weeknight dinner that never gets old. They’re so simple, so full of color, and totally customizable for any preferences or pantry finds. Give them a try and bring a bit of Hawaiian sunshine to your table—your friends and family will be begging for seconds!