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Flavorful Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs with Grilled Pineapple

hawaiian teriyaki chicken kabobs - featured image

These Hawaiian teriyaki chicken kabobs with grilled pineapple combine sweet, tangy, and savory flavors for a quick and easy meal perfect for outdoor gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
  • 1 medium fresh pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup fresh or canned pineapple juice
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes if using)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
  2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, stir to coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably up to 4 hours.
  3. Peel and core the pineapple, cutting it into 1-inch chunks. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if using.
  4. Thread marinated chicken pieces and pineapple chunks alternately onto skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking.
  5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). If using a grill pan, preheat on medium-high and oil lightly.
  6. Grill kabobs for 12-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and pineapple is caramelized.
  7. Remove kabobs from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
  8. Garnish with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes if desired before serving.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour, up to 4 hours for best flavor. Soak wooden skewers to prevent burning. Watch grill temperature to avoid burning sugars in marinade. Let kabobs rest after grilling to keep chicken juicy. For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Pineapple can be substituted with mango or peaches. For a smoky twist, add smoked paprika to marinade.

Nutrition

Keywords: Hawaiian chicken kabobs, teriyaki chicken, grilled pineapple, easy kabobs, summer grilling, backyard BBQ, sweet and savory chicken