Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are the perfect dish for any gathering, bringing a taste of the tropics right to your table. These delicious chicken skewers are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The combination of juicy chicken and sweet pineapple, coated in a rich Hawaiian BBQ sauce, makes these kabobs a hit at parties, barbecues, or family dinners. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a casual meal, Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 5 minutes of cooking, you can whip up these kabobs in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The pairing of tender chicken and sweet pineapple creates a delightful balance that everyone will love.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or gatherings, these kabobs are sure to be a favorite among guests.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer or main course; they work great for any meal.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in fat, these kabobs make for a nutritious option.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs seamlessly, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them beforehand)
• Tongs
• Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Perfect for pan-frying the chicken quickly while keeping it moist and flavorful.
• Tongs: Essential for handling the hot chicken safely during cooking and plating.
• Serving Platter: A beautiful way to present your kabobs to guests or family.

Ingredients

Hawaiian Chicken Bites – amazing chicken skewers with pineapple with Hawaiian BBQ sauce. This recipe is so easy and a crowd pleaser. 

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs (1kg) chicken (cut into cubes)
• salt
• ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon oil

For the Kabobs

• 1 can Dole Pineapple Slices (quartered)
• 1/3 cup King’s Hawaiian BBQ Sauce Original
• 1/2 tablespoon chopped parsley leaves

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Season the Chicken

1. Season the chicken cubes with salt and ground black pepper.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the oil.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet.
2. Pan-fry until cooked through and nicely browned on all sides.
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs

1. Thread one piece of cooked chicken onto each skewer.
2. Follow with one quartered slice of pineapple.
3. Add another piece of chicken on top.
4. Continue threading until all ingredients are used.

Step 4: Add BBQ Sauce and Serve

1. Brush the BBQ sauce generously over each kabob.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
3. Serve immediately while warm.

Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs! These tasty skewers are sure to be a hit at any event!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. They are perfect for gatherings, parties, or even family dinners. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

On Skewers

• Serve the kabobs directly on skewers for a fun and casual presentation.

With Rice

• Pair the kabobs with a side of fluffy jasmine or coconut rice to soak up the delicious BBQ sauce.

In Tacos

• Create Hawaiian chicken tacos by placing the kabobs in soft tortillas topped with fresh veggies and avocado.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as extra BBQ sauce, sweet chili sauce, or garlic aioli for added flavor.

As Appetizers

• Cut the kabobs into smaller pieces and serve them as appetizers at your next gathering.

With Grilled Veggies

• Accompany the kabobs with grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a colorful plate.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

To ensure your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor and tenderness.

• Use even-sized pieces: Cutting chicken and pineapple into uniform sizes ensures even cooking on the grill or skillet.

• Preheat your skillet: A hot skillet helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color on the chicken while keeping it juicy inside.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each piece enough space in your skillet to cook properly without steaming them.

• Baste while cooking: Brush some BBQ sauce on the kabobs while they cook to add extra flavor and moisture.

• Let them rest: After cooking, let the kabobs rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute within the chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Pairing your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs with complementary sides enhances your meal’s overall experience. Consider these tasty options:

1. Coconut Rice
   A fragrant rice dish cooked with coconut milk that perfectly complements the tropical flavors of the kabobs.

2. Grilled Pineapple Salsa
   Fresh pineapple mixed with onions, cilantro, and lime creates a refreshing salsa that pairs well with chicken.

3. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots offers a nice contrast in texture and balances out the sweetness of the kabobs.

4. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and herbs provides a healthy side option packed with nutrients.

5. Sweet Potato Fries
   Baked sweet potato fries add a delicious sweetness while being a healthier alternative to regular fries.

6. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled corn brushed with butter is a classic summer side that adds sweetness and crunch alongside your kabobs.

7. Garden Salad
   A simple garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette offers freshness and balances out richer flavors from the kabobs.

8. Vegetable Skewers
   Alternate vegetable skewers with zucchini, bell peppers, and onions provide more grilling options that match well with your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs turn out perfectly.

• Using uneven chicken pieces: Ensure all chicken cubes are of similar size for even cooking. Cut them into uniform pieces to avoid some being undercooked while others are overdone.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t neglect to season the chicken well with salt and pepper. This adds necessary flavor before cooking, enhancing the overall taste of the kabobs.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Avoid placing too many chicken pieces in one pan. This can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if needed for that golden finish.
• Not letting chicken rest: Allowing cooked chicken to rest is crucial. It helps retain moisture, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
• Ignoring presentation: Presentation matters! Arrange your kabobs beautifully on a platter, garnishing with parsley for an appealing look that impresses guests.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

• Wrap kabobs tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• These can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kabobs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Sauté the kabobs for about 5-7 minutes until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs.

What is the best type of chicken to use for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best as they are tender and cook evenly.

Can I substitute other fruits in Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

Yes! You can use mango, bell peppers, or zucchini alongside pineapple for added flavor and color.

How can I make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs spicier?

Add chili flakes or marinate the chicken in a spicy sauce before assembling the kabobs for extra heat.

What dipping sauce pairs well with Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

A sweet and spicy dipping sauce like sriracha mixed with honey complements these kabobs wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or experimenting with different marinades. Perfect for gatherings, these kabobs are sure to impress friends and family alike. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!