Name: Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: ¼ cup packed brown sugar; ½ tablespoon mild or medium chili powder; ½ teaspoon Morton kosher salt; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder; ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger; 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1½” pieces; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1½” pieces; ½ of a large red onion, cut into 1½” pieces; ¼ of a large pineapple, cut into 1½” pieces; ¼ pound Canadian bacon slices, cut into 1½” pieces; 1 teaspoon olive oil

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 3 reviews

If you are looking for a dish that bursts with tropical sunshine and bold flavor, the Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs Recipe is an absolute must-try. This exciting recipe brings together juicy marinated chicken, smoky Canadian bacon, sweet pineapple, and vibrant veggies, all graced with a subtle kick from chili powder and warming ginger. Each skewer promises a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy that will elevate your grilling game and impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface filled with several chunks of light pink meat coated in a layer of dark brown spices and seasonings. The meat pieces show a slightly uneven texture, with some parts dusted heavily with the powdery spices while other parts are more glossy from moisture. The bowl edges are slightly speckled with leftover seasoning, and the overall look is a mix of rough and smooth with warm, earthy tones. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to a memorable Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs Recipe. Each component plays an important role in building layers of flavor and keeping your kabobs colorful and enticing.

¼ cup packed brown sugar: Adds a rich sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
½ tablespoon mild or medium chili powder: Provides a gentle heat that complements the tropical notes without overwhelming.
½ teaspoon Morton kosher salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the spice and sweetness.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Offers a subtle sharpness that rounds out the spice profile.
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a mellow savory base that melds with the other spices.
⅛ teaspoon ground ginger: Brings a warm, zesty undertone that amplifies the island flavors.
1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1½” pieces): The lean protein centerpiece that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon olive oil (divided): Keeps the chicken and vegetables tender and prevents sticking on the grill.
1 large red bell pepper (cut into 1½” pieces): Adds vibrant color and a sweet crunch that’s essential to the kabob experience.
½ of a large red onion (cut into 1½” pieces): Lends a gentle pungency with a hint of sweetness when grilled.
¼ of a large pineapple (cut into 1½” pieces): Brings juicy tropical sweetness and acidity that brightens the dish.
¼ pound Canadian bacon slices (cut into 1½” pieces): Introduces smoky, salty richness that pairs perfectly with the sweet and spicy elements.

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Skewers

If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least one hour before grilling. This little step prevents the skewers from burning on the grill and ensures your kabobs stay intact, letting you focus on that perfect char.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning Mix

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and ground ginger. This spiced brown sugar mixture is the secret weapon for that delectable sweet-heat balance that defines the Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs Recipe.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken pieces in a medium bowl and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle the seasoning mix on top, folding the chicken gently until every piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for one hour to let all those flavors mingle and infuse deeply.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

Add the red bell pepper and red onion pieces to another medium bowl, drizzle the remaining one teaspoon of olive oil, and gently toss to coat. This step ensures the vegetables stay juicy and get just the right amount of grill char.

Step 5: Thread the Kabobs

Alternately thread the seasoned chicken, bell pepper, onion, pineapple, and Canadian bacon pieces onto the skewers. Sprinkle salt and pepper lightly on all sides to add a final seasoning touch before grilling.

Step 6: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are scrubbed clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Place the kabobs on the grill and cook until they develop a beautiful char on one side, then turn and char the other side. The chicken should be completely cooked after about 12-15 minutes, depending on your grill and cut size. Remove from heat and get ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs Recipe

The image shows three metal skewers on a large white plate with grilled pieces of dark brown chicken, bright yellow pineapple chunks, red bell pepper pieces, and purple onion segments. The chicken pieces have char marks, and the pineapple and vegetables appear grilled with some browned edges. Around the plate are fresh green parsley bunches in the top left and slices of fresh pineapple to the right. A small clear bowl containing a red spice mix is partly visible in the bottom right corner. The entire scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate these kabobs even more. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and herbal brightness. A squeeze of lime juice right before serving adds a zesty contrast that makes each bite sing with flavor.

Side Dishes

These kabobs pair beautifully with light and refreshing sides. Think coconut rice that complements the tropical vibes or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. For something heartier, grilled corn on the cob or garlic roasted potatoes also work wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive presentation, serve the kabobs on a large wooden platter lined with banana leaves or fresh lettuce. You can also arrange them over a bed of jasmine or basmati rice, garnished with pineapple chunks for an extra pop of sweetness that wows visually and flavor-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the grilled pineapple and bacon pieces separate from the chicken and vegetables if possible to maintain their best texture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the kabobs, remove them from the skewers first and place pieces in a single layer on a tray to flash freeze. Once frozen, transfer into a sealed freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftover kabob pieces gently in a skillet over medium heat or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil, until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain a good texture and flavor balance.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option because they stay juicy and tender on the grill. Just adjust cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.

What if I don’t have Canadian bacon? Can I substitute something else?

Pork belly, ham, or even thick-cut bacon can be used as alternatives. Just keep in mind their cooking times and saltiness levels to avoid overpowering the kabobs.

How spicy is the Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs Recipe?

The recipe uses mild to medium chili powder, so it offers a gentle heat that complements the sweetness of pineapple. You can adjust the chili powder quantity to suit your spice preference.

Do I have to use wooden skewers?

If you have metal skewers, feel free to use those instead. They don’t require soaking and often make turning the kabobs easier. Just handle with care as they get hot on the grill.

Can I prepare the kabobs entirely indoors?

Definitely! While grilling adds amazing flavor, you can cook these kabobs on a grill pan or broil them in the oven. Keep an eye on them to get that nice caramelization without burning.

Final Thoughts

There is something so joyful about threading vibrant ingredients onto skewers and grilling them to perfection, and the Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs Recipe captures that happiness in every bite. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a family dinner or hosting a lively backyard gathering, these kabobs bring a tropical flair and a delightful blend of flavors that everyone will love. I can’t wait for you to try them and share the sunshine that comes with each mouthful!