Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Skewers with Coconut Rice
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Nothing says summer is here like the sizzle of grilled dinners and tropical fruits, and this recipe has them both! Fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy these Hawaiian chicken skewers: tender, charred chicken, tropical pineapple, crisp, colorful bell peppers, and savory onion meet on a stick! Glaze it with a delicious teriyaki sauce, and you’ve got yourself a winning summer dinner!
You don’t need a plane ticket to bring the flavors of Hawaii to dinner — just fire up the grill. These grilled pineapple chicken kabobs are one of my favorite ways to add a little tropical flair to a backyard meal, with juicy pineapple, tender chicken, and a sweet, sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully as everything cooks.
I love how simple ingredients turn into something special once they hit the grill. The pineapple’s natural sugars char and caramelize, adding depth and sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken. These skewers are always a hit at summer BBQs, great for entertaining, and easy enough to make on a weeknight when grilling feels like the right move.
Chicken tastes better on sticks. Let these chicken satay skewers prove it to you!
Is this an authentic Hawaiian recipe?
We called this recipe Hawaiian as it reminds us of some of the wonderful flavors of Hawaii – pineapple, juicy grilled chicken, and a sweet sauce. While it’s not authentic, it is delicious and will have you dreaming of warm Hawaiian evenings.
Tips for making Hawaiian chicken skewers
These Hawaiiwan chicken skewers are simple to make: just marinade, chop, thread, and grill! While it’s straightforward, here are a few hot tips to keep in mind:
- Uniform cooking: When cutting your pineapple, veggies, and chicken, try to cut everything to a similar size to the chicken for uniform cooking. You’ll want to aim for around 1 to 1 ½-inch cubes.
- Space it out: Keep around a quarter inch between items on the skewer to allow the heat space to distribute, cooking everything evenly.
- Distance makes the heart grow fonder: Keep that pineapple away from your chicken until it’s time to hit the grill! Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which breaks down proteins. This is why your lip sometimes tingles when you enjoy a fresh pineapple! Don’t throw the pineapple in to marinade with the chicken as it may start spreading its tingles to the chicken.
- Soak your skewers: If you’re using bamboo or wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning once they hit the grill grate.
What to serve with Hawaiian chicken skewers
These hawaiian chicken skewers are a little meal on a stick: you’ve got protein, veggies, and a little sweet note! You’re going to want to make extra of that delicious teriyaki sauce to drizzle over a side of steaming coconut rice or pineapple fried rice, which make perfect beds for your Hawaiian chicken kabobs.
For a grill out feast, make some Hawaiian hot dogs, too! While the grill is on, whip up a grilled potato salad or honey corn on the cob to serve beside your skewers.
Recipe FAQs
Where can I find skewers?
Many supermarkets sell bamboo skewers, and you can also find stainless steel skewers online. If using bamboo skewers, we suggest soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before adding the chicken to prevent burning on the grill.
Can I make chicken skewers Hawaiian-style if I don’t have a grill?
Sure! Our preferred method of cooking is grilling, but you can use a grill pan, a skillet, an air fryer, or broil it in the oven. Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
How do I store leftover Hawaiian chicken skewers?
Store your leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also take the leftovers off the skewers and use them in other recipes, such as a stir-fry or Hawaiian-inspired chicken tacos.
Can I use canned pineapple for these grilled Hawaiian chicken kebabs?
Fresh pineapple offers a much fresher, more vibrant flavor. In a pinch, canned pineapple can work, but the final result will differ in texture and taste.
Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe
Ingredients
Teriyaki Sauce
- ¼ cup EACH: honey and soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated or minced ginger
- 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water
Hawaiian Chicken Skewers
- 6 boneless chicken thighs (can sub 3 chicken breasts)
- 1 red pepper (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 green pepper (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 red onion (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- ½ pineapple (peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch cubes)
Instructions
- Add the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic to a small pot over high heat and bring it to a boil. Mix the cornstarch with the cold water in a small cup and add it to the pot. Once the sauce thickens remove it from the heat.¼ cup EACH: honey and soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon grated or minced ginger, 2 cloves garlic, 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water
- Cut the chicken thighs into 3-4 pieces each and put them in a bowl. Pour ¼ cup of the teriyaki sauce over the top and mix well. Let the chicken marinate while you chop the veggies.6 boneless chicken thighs
- Preheat your BBQ to medium-high and oil the grill. Thread the chicken and veggies onto skewers.
- Grill them for 10 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through cooking. Serve the skewers with the teriyaki sauce drizzled over the top.1 red pepper, 1 green pepper, 1 red onion, ½ pineapple
Nutrition
We have thoroughly tested this recipe for accuracy. However, individual results may vary. See our full recipe disclosure here.
I have had so much success finding family favourites from you Kristen. The Hawaiian Chicken is one of them. Love your recipes. Thanks for the paleo and whole 30 options too.
I really love hearing that! You’re so welcome!
Delish! First recipe I’ve made from your site, and won’t be my last!
I’m so happy you liked the recipe!
Made this recipe tonight. Simple, fast, and so tasty. We used some fresh basil from the garden as garnish, which went well with the coconut rice. Loving the variety of dishes I can find on your site.
Thank Ulrich
Thank you so much! And good call on the basil. Yum!
I’m so happy you like the recipe!!