Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs Recipe

If you’re ready to upgrade your next barbecue to a tropical getaway, these Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs are calling your name! They strike the perfect balance—sweet, smoky, a little spicy, and bursting with juicy goodness in every bite. Pineapple, tender chicken, and a tingle of chili warmth will make these stick-to-your-memory skewers disappear fast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs is how each ingredient, though simple, brings its own twist—sweetness, color, smokiness, or juicy texture. Together, they create a kabob that’s upbeat, welcoming, and layered with tropical flavor.

• Packed brown sugar: Adds a hint of caramel sweetness and helps create that irresistible glaze on the grilled chicken.
• Mild or medium chili powder: The not-too-hot spice for a gentle kick and gorgeous color.
• Morton kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: A must for balanced seasoning that makes the other flavors pop.
• Garlic powder & ground ginger: Just a dash of each infuses a subtle warmth and gentle zing throughout each bite.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into even chunks, they stay juicy and tender with the flavorful marinade.
• Olive oil: Coats the chicken and veggies for a perfect sear without sticking.
• Red bell pepper: Not only photogenic, but it stays tender-crisp and adds a sweet, veggie contrast.
• Red onion: Roasts up mellow and savory, tying all the sweet and smoky notes together.
• Pineapple: Fresh chunks grill up caramelized and juicy—a true taste of island sunshine.
• Canadian bacon: Slightly smoky and lightly salty, it’s the secret to a meaty, hearty kabob that’s never dry.

Variations

One of the reasons I love Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs is how easy they are to make your own! Swap, add, or experiment depending on what’s in your fridge, how spicy you like things, or any dietary needs you have.

• Turn Up the Heat: Craving extra spice? Use hot chili powder or toss in a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to really wake up your tastebuds.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: All ingredients as written are gluten-free, but always double-check your bacon and spices just in case.
• Swap the Protein: Try cubed pork tenderloin, shrimp, or even extra-firm tofu for a delicious twist on the classic skewer.
• Veggie Celebration: Load up on more grilled favorites like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for a kabob that’s extra colorful and hearty.

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs

Step 1: Prep Your Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, give them a good soak in water for at least an hour. This prevents them from burning up on the grill—no one likes charred splinters in the middle of a perfect meal! You can prep the rest of your ingredients while they soak.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In a small bowl, stir together your brown sugar, chili powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and ginger. This custom blend is the kabob’s secret weapon for big, bold taste and just the right sweetness-with-heat balance.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Toss the chicken chunks with 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a bowl so every piece glistens. Pour your spice mix over the top and fold gently to coat every bite lovingly. For the juiciest, most flavorful result, cover and chill for an hour to let those flavors sink in.

Step 4: Prep the Veggies & Pineapple

Add the red bell pepper and onion pieces to their own bowl, drizzle with the remaining olive oil, and toss until they shine. Their natural sweetness will deepen as they grill.

Step 5: Assemble the Kabobs

Now the fun part—thread chicken, red bell pepper, onion, pineapple, and Canadian bacon onto your soaked skewers, alternating for a rainbow of flavors in every bite. Don’t forget to sprinkle the finished skewers with a little extra salt and pepper for a final flavor boost.

Step 6: Grill to Perfection

Fire up your grill to medium or medium-high. Oil the grates well so nothing sticks—grab a folded paper towel, dip it in oil, and use tongs to wipe down the grates. Lay your Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs on and let them cook until golden brown with deep char marks, turning as needed. Total cook time is 12–15 minutes, depending on the grill and chunk size. Make sure the chicken is cooked through…and then serve immediately while hot and sizzling!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs

Garnishes

Take your kabobs to the next level with a scattering of freshly chopped cilantro or green onions just before serving—they add an herby pop that plays perfectly off the sweet and smoky notes. For a final island flourish, try a few flecks of toasted sesame seeds or a squeeze of lime over the top.

Side Dishes

Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs practically beg for simple, sunshine-inspired sides. Think fluffy coconut rice, a crisp cucumber salad, or even grilled corn on the cob. For a perfect party spread, add a cold noodle salad or bright slaw tossed with pineapple juice and lime.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your skewers family-style, fanned across a big platter lined with leafy greens—or go festive and present each kabob on a pineapple “boat” for instant tropical vibes. For appetizers, snip the skewers into mini pieces and arrange on a board with a tangy dipping sauce for dipping. It’s easy, playful, and absolutely irresistible either way!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs keep well! Remove the chicken, bacon, and veggies from the skewers and store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days—perfect for easy lunches or a speedy salad topping.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze fully cooked kabob pieces (off the skewers) in a zip-top bag or airtight container. Try to remove as much air as possible—these skewers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs gently in a 325ºF oven until hot, or give leftovers a quick sizzle in a hot skillet for a little extra caramelization. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the chicken tough—just enough to warm through is perfect.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a surefire way to jazz up dinner or wow your next cookout crowd, give these Hawaiian Chicken Chili Kabobs a spot on your grill. They’re cheerful, flavorful, and just a little bit addictive—an easy tropical escape anytime you need one. I can’t wait for you to try them and fall in love with every juicy, sweet-spicy bite!

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