Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Name: Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken (cut into cubes); Salt and ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon oil; 1 can Dole Pineapple Slices (quartered); 1/3 cup King’s Hawaiian BBQ Sauce Original; Chopped parsley for garnish

Published: June 25, 2025

by Victoria

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 flavorful kabobs in no time.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of chicken, pineapple, and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering blend that everyone will love.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these kabobs are guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the chicken and natural sweetness from the pineapple, this dish is both nutritious and delicious.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve as an appetizer, main course, or even on a salad; these kabobs fit any meal plan.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Skewers
Tongs
Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: This allows you to pan-fry the chicken evenly, ensuring it gets beautifully browned and cooked through.
Skewers: Essential for threading the chicken and pineapple together; they make serving easy and fun.
Tongs: Great for flipping the chicken in the skillet without losing any flavor or juices.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

For the Pineapple

1 can Dole Pineapple Slices (quartered)

For the Sauce

1/3 cup King’s Hawaiian BBQ Sauce Original

For Garnish

1/2 tablespoon chopped parsley leaves

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Seasoning the Chicken

Begin by seasoning the chicken cubes with salt and ground black pepper.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken

Heat your skillet over medium heat and add the oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken:
1. Pan-fry until cooked through and nicely browned on all sides.
2. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Step 3: Assembling the Kabobs

Now it’s time to thread your kabobs:
1. Take a skewer and thread one piece of chicken onto it.
2. Follow with one quartered slice of pineapple.
3. Add another piece of chicken to complete that layer.
4. Repeat this process until all ingredients are threaded onto skewers.

Step 4: Adding BBQ Sauce

Once assembled:
1. Brush King’s Hawaiian BBQ sauce generously over each kabob.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley for added color and flavor.

Step 5: Serving Your Kabobs

Serve immediately on a platter while they’re warm, allowing everyone to enjoy this tropical delight!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to impress your guests. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

On a Skewer

Serve the kabobs directly on skewers for a fun and casual presentation. This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy!

With Extra BBQ Sauce

Offer a small bowl of Hawaiian BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. This adds an extra layer of flavor and allows everyone to customize their taste.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

Garnish the kabobs with freshly chopped parsley or green onions. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds freshness to each bite.

As Part of a Platter

Arrange the kabobs on a large serving platter alongside other appetizers. This creates a beautiful spread that is perfect for gatherings.

In Lettuce Wraps

For a low-carb option, serve the chicken kabobs in crisp lettuce leaves. Guests can wrap them up for a refreshing bite.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

To truly make your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs shine, consider these helpful tips. These suggestions will ensure that you achieve the best flavor and texture possible.

Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in Hawaiian BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes will enhance its flavor.
Use Fresh Pineapple: Fresh pineapple can provide a juicier and more vibrant taste compared to canned options.
Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Cook Over Medium Heat: Cooking the kabobs over medium heat ensures they cook evenly without burning.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers or red onions between the chicken pieces for added flavor and color.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs can create a complete meal. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful dish.

Coconut Rice: A fragrant rice dish cooked with coconut milk that pairs perfectly with sweet and savory flavors.
Grilled Vegetables: Colorful vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, lightly seasoned and grilled until tender.
Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots tossed in a tangy dressing adds a refreshing contrast.
Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad with herbs complements the smoky flavors of the kabobs beautifully.
Fruit Salad: A mix of tropical fruits like mango, kiwi, and banana provides a sweet touch that balances out savory dishes.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter makes for a classic side that’s loved by many.
Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a healthy option alongside kabobs.
Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans add heartiness to your meal while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly can lead to bland kabobs. Always use salt and pepper generously to enhance the flavor.
Overcrowding the skillet: Cooking too much chicken at once can cause uneven cooking. Fry in batches to ensure each piece gets a nice, brown exterior.
Not using fresh ingredients: Using canned or old pineapple may affect taste. Opt for fresh pineapple when possible for a burst of flavor that complements the chicken.
Ignoring cooking times: Overcooking chicken will make it dry. Keep an eye on your kabobs and remove them from heat as soon as they are cooked through.
Neglecting presentation: Kabobs should look appealing! Arrange them nicely on a platter and garnish with parsley for an inviting presentation.

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

Place cooled kabobs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label and date them!

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kabobs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot, but be cautious not to overcook.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Reheat kabobs, turning occasionally, until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

You can pair these kabobs with coconut rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs spicy?

To add heat, marinate the chicken in your favorite hot sauce before cooking or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the finished dish.

Can I use other meats for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option while still enjoying fun flavors.

How do I store leftover Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs properly?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are not just delicious but also versatile! They work wonderfully as appetizers or mains and can easily be customized with different veggies or sauces. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering—your guests will love it!

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