As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of sweet and smoky BBQ sauce wafted through the air, whisking me away to a tropical paradise. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Weeknight Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Skewers with Grilled Pineapple, a dish that not only brings a burst of sunshine to your table but also makes for an effortless weeknight dinner. In just 37 minutes, you’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken skewers ready to impress, paired with the caramelized sweetness of grilled pineapple. This easy-to-make Hawaiian Chicken BBQ is perfect for those busy evenings when you crave something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s gluten-free and allows for delightful variations, whether you prefer breasts or thighs or want to mix in some colorful side dishes. Curious to learn how to create this tropical delight? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is Hawaiian Chicken BBQ the Best? Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet BBQ sauce and tangy pineapple creates an unforgettable taste experience that transports you right to the islands. Quick & Easy: In just 37 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on your table, perfect for those hectic weekdays. Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with chicken breasts or thighs, and swap in your favorite sides like coleslaw or grilled veggies. Healthy & Gluten-Free: Using fresh ingredients, this recipe is a flavorful alternative to fast food that caters to various dietary needs. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend gathering, these skewers are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant flavors. Hawaiian Chicken BBQ Ingredients • Here’s everything you need to bring this tropical delight to your table! For the Marinade BBQ Sauce – Adds sweetness and depth; feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade variation. Pineapple Juice – Provides moisture and flavor; fresh juice offers a brighter taste. Soy Sauce – Adds umami and saltiness; use tamari for a gluten-free option. Sesame Oil – Contributes nuttiness; can be swapped with olive oil for a milder touch. Garlic (minced) – Enhances aroma and taste; fresh garlic is preferred over powdered. Ginger (minced) – Adds heat and freshness; ground ginger can be used but may deliver less potency. Lime Juice – Introduces acidity to balance sweetness; lemon juice serves as a substitute. Red Pepper Flakes – Provides kick and spice; adjust amount according to your heat preference. For the Skewers Chicken (cut into 1-inch cubes) – The main protein source; a mix of breasts and thighs is recommended for balance. Pineapple Slices – Grilled for added sweetness and texture; always opt for fresh over syrup-packed slices. For Grilling Vegetable Oil – Used for brushing pineapple; any neutral oil will work here. Green Onions – Adds fresh flavor for garnish; can be replaced with chives if preferred. For Serving Steamed Rice – Serves as a base; quinoa or cauliflower rice can be used for a low-carb alternative. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Chicken BBQ Step 1: Prepare Marinade In a mixing bowl, whisk together your BBQ sauce, reserved pineapple juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, ginger, lime juice, and red pepper flakes until well combined. This flavorful marinade will infuse your chicken with a delicious taste. Set aside about half a cup of the marinade for later to brush on the chicken while grilling. Step 2: Marinate Chicken Cut your chicken into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large zip-top bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is preferred for maximum flavor absorption. This step is essential to creating the juicy Hawaiian Chicken BBQ skewers. Step 3: Preheat Grill About 15 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ideally between 375°F and 400°F. This temperature will help achieve a perfect char on your skewers while locking in moisture. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking, ensuring a beautiful finish on your chicken. Step 4: Skewer Chicken Once marinated, remove the chicken from the fridge. Thread the chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving some space between each piece to ensure they cook evenly. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Preparing these Hawaiian Chicken BBQ skewers in advance will make grilling much easier. Step 5: Grill Chicken Place the filled skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning them halfway through. Keep an eye on the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with the reserved marinade for extra flavor and a delicious glaze, enhancing the Hawaiian BBQ experience. Step 6: Grill Pineapple While the chicken is grilling, brush the pineapple slices with vegetable oil. Add them to the grill for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely charred and caramelized. The heat will enhance their sweetness and create a lovely smoky flavor, adding a perfect accompaniment to your Hawaiian Chicken BBQ skewers. Step 7: Serve Once everything is grilled to perfection, arrange some steamed rice on individual plates. Top each serving with the Hawaiian Chicken BBQ skewers and the grilled pineapple slices. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. This colorful presentation not only looks inviting but also adds to the tropical essence of your meal, making it a hit at your table. Make Ahead Options These Weeknight Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Skewers are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes, combine it with your marinade, and refrigerate in an airtight container. To ensure the chicken remains juicy and flavorful, try to use the marinade within this timeframe. On grilling day, just skewer and grill the marinated chicken for 12-15 minutes until it reaches 165°F, finishing with a brush of reserved marinade for extra flavor. With this prep, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress without the last-minute stress! How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Chicken BBQ Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps maintain freshness and flavor for your delicious Hawaiian Chicken BBQ, making it ready for quick meals. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the skewers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn and maintain their delightful taste. Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in the oven or on a skillet to keep the chicken moist and tender, bringing back the tropical flavors. Marinade Tip: If you have leftover marinade, it can be refrigerated separately for up to a week, perfect for another round of BBQ or as a flavorful dressing for salads! What to Serve with Weeknight Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Skewers with Grilled Pineapple A delightful array of sides will elevate your tropical feast, creating a meal that bursts with flavor and harmony. Crispy Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds a refreshing bite, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the BBQ chicken. Grilled Vegetables: Savor seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers, adding vibrant colors and earthy flavors to your plate. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious, protein-packed option, this salad provides a nutty flavor and fluffy texture that complements the skewers wonderfully. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, this light and fluffy base soaks up the delicious sauce and keeps the meal refreshing. Pineapple Salsa: Enhance the tropical vibe with fresh pineapple, tomatoes, and cilantro; it’s a zesty topping bursting with brightness. Light Beer or Sparkling Water: Pair with a crisp beer or refreshing sparkling water with lime to cleanse the palate and complement the sweet and savory notes of the dish. These side dishes not only bring variety to the table but also deepen your experience of the Hawaiian Chicken BBQ, making each bite a mini-vacation for your taste buds! Hawaiian Chicken BBQ Variations Feel free to customize your Hawaiian Chicken BBQ to fit your taste buds and dietary needs, creating a personalized tropical experience. All Chicken Thighs: Use only thighs for a juicier, richer flavor that also makes grilling easier. You’ll love the tenderness they bring! Mango Madness: Swap grilled pineapple for fresh mango slices, providing a unique sweetness that brightens up each skewer. Veggie Skewers: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions to your skewers for a colorful, nutritious boost alongside the chicken. Spicy Kick: Enhance the heat level by adding more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce right before serving for that extra zing! Quinoa Base: Serve your skewers over fluffy quinoa instead of rice for a protein-packed, gluten-free option that’s just as delicious. Tropical Sauce: Drizzle some coconut cream or a spicy mango salsa over the skewers to add another layer of tropical flavor. Coleslaw Twist: Pair with a vibrant coleslaw for a crunchy, refreshing contrast to the sweet BBQ chicken – a perfect complement! Mediterranean Touch: Replace the soy sauce with balsamic vinaigrette for a tangy twist that brings out the natural sweetness of the chicken. These variations not only keep things exciting, but they also allow you to experience a range of flavors each time you whip up these Hawaiian Chicken BBQ skewers. If you’re in the mood for more delicious chicken recipes, check out my Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas or try the juicy Honey BBQ Chicken for another family favorite! Expert Tips for Hawaiian Chicken BBQ Marinade Magic: Always set aside some marinade before adding raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination. This will keep the flavors intact for basting later on! Dry It Up: Pat your chicken pieces dry with a paper towel before grilling. This simple step helps achieve a beautiful char and caramelization, making your Hawaiian Chicken BBQ even tastier. Even Cooking: Ensure you leave space between chicken pieces on the skewers. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming, serving you tender, juicy pieces every time. Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F. Thinner breast pieces may cook faster than thighs, so keep an eye on those! Swap It Up: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try using chicken thighs for extra juiciness or mix in colorful veggies on the skewers for a delightful twist to your Hawaiian Chicken BBQ. Hawaiian Chicken BBQ Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use? Absolutely! You can use either chicken breasts or thighs for this Hawaiian Chicken BBQ. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts offer a leaner option. Feel free to mix both for a delightful variety of textures in each bite. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you’re looking to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just ensure they are sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn. Can I freeze Hawaiian Chicken BBQ skewers? Very much so! You can freeze the cooked skewers for up to 3 months. After grilling, allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in the oven or skillet. What if my chicken is cooking unevenly? No worries! If you find that certain pieces are done before others, simply remove those that are fully cooked and keep the others on the grill. To ensure even cooking in the future, make sure there’s space between chicken pieces on the skewers to avoid steaming. Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe? Yes, absolutely! This recipe contains soy sauce, which may be an allergen for some individuals. You can substitute it with tamari for a gluten-free option. Additionally, check your BBQ sauce as some may contain allergens, so opt for one that fits your dietary needs. How should I select ripe pineapples for grilling? When choosing pineapples, look for ones that are fragrant and slightly soft when pressed. Avoid any with dark spots or excessive bruising. A perfectly ripe pineapple adds that sweet, caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with your Hawaiian Chicken BBQ. Savor Hawaiian Chicken BBQ Skewers with Grilled Pineapple Discover the delights of Hawaiian Chicken BBQ skewers with the tangy sweetness of pineapple in this quick and easy recipe. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 22 minutes minsMarinating Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 37 minutes mins Servings: 4 skewersCourse: ChickenCuisine: HawaiianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Marinade1 cup BBQ Sauce Use your favorite brand or homemade variation.1/2 cup Pineapple Juice Fresh juice offers a brighter taste.1/4 cup Soy Sauce Use tamari for a gluten-free option.2 tablespoons Sesame Oil Can be swapped with olive oil.3 cloves Garlic Minced, fresh garlic preferred.1 tablespoon Ginger Minced, fresh ginger preferred.2 tablespoons Lime Juice Substitute with lemon juice if needed.1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to heat preference.For the Skewers1 pound Chicken Cut into 1-inch cubes; mix of breasts and thighs recommended.1 cup Pineapple Slices Grilled for added sweetness.For Grilling2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil For brushing pineapple.2 tablespoons Green Onions Chopped, for garnish.For Serving2 cups Steamed Rice Quinoa or cauliflower rice can be used as alternatives. Equipment Grillmixing bowlwhiskskewersZip-Top Bag or Bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrepare Marinade: Whisk together BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and red pepper flakes until combined. Reserve half a cup for basting while grilling.Marinate Chicken: Place chicken in a bag or bowl; pour marinade over and coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.Preheat Grill: About 15 minutes before grilling, preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F-400°F). Oil the grates.Skewer Chicken: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking. Soak wooden skewers in water if using.Grill Chicken: Cook skewers on the grill for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway. Brush with reserved marinade in the last 5 minutes.Grill Pineapple: Brush pineapple slices with oil and grill for about 2 minutes on each side until charred.Serve: Plate steamed rice and top with chicken skewers and grilled pineapple; garnish with green onions. Nutrition Serving: 1skewerCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze skewers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or skillet. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
