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Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs Recipe

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3.9 from 3 reviews

These Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs combine tender marinated chicken with charred red bell peppers, onions, sweet pineapple, and smoky Canadian bacon for a flavorful and colorful grilling experience. The marinade blends brown sugar with warm spices, creating a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that enhance the juicy grilled chicken. Ideal for summer barbecues or any meal that calls for vibrant, grilled skewers packed with tasty goodness.

Ingredients

Marinade and Chicken

  • 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
  • pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into ” pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Vegetables and Bacon

  • 1 large red bell pepper, cut into ” pieces
  • ½ of a large red onion, cut into ” pieces
  • ¼ of a large pineapple, cut into ” pieces
  • ¼ pound Canadian bacon slices, cut into ” pieces
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 1 hour before grilling to prevent burning.
  2. Prepare Spice Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chili powder, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and ground ginger to create the marinade seasoning. Set aside.
  3. Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a medium bowl. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken and mix to coat evenly. Sprinkle the prepared spiced brown sugar mixture over the chicken and fold gently to ensure all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour to let flavors infuse.
  4. Prepare Vegetables: Add the cut red bell pepper and red onion pieces to a separate medium bowl. Drizzle the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil over them and toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Assemble Kabobs: Thread the marinated chicken, oiled red bell pepper, onion, pineapple pieces, and Canadian bacon slices alternately onto the skewers. Season the assembled kabobs lightly with salt and pepper on all sides.
  6. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium to medium-high heat. Ensure the grill grates are cleaned thoroughly and then lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
  7. Grill Kabobs: Place the kabobs on the hot grill grates. Cook for approximately 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve evenly charred sides. Continue until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a beautiful char. Cooking time may vary depending on grill temperature and piece size.
  8. Serve: Remove kabobs from the grill and serve hot, enjoying the smoky and sweet blend of flavors.

Notes

  • Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
  • Oiling the grill grates helps to prevent the kabobs from sticking and tearing apart.
  • Adjust the chili powder amount according to your heat preference.
  • Ensure chicken pieces are cut uniformly for even cooking.
  • Serve kabobs with a side of rice or fresh salad for a complete meal.