Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Skewers bring together the bold flavors of juicy grilled chicken and sweet, caramelized pineapple for a dish that’s both tropical and satisfying. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, looking for a crowd-pleasing meal, or craving something tangy and savory, this easy Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers recipe is the answer.
At Cooking Flash,About page , our journey started with a simple mission: transform everyday ingredients into extraordinary dishes. We believe that flavor should never be boring, and our founder’s passion for tropical cuisine led to this unforgettable blend of pineapple chicken kabobs marinade, smoky char, and vibrant peppers. Inspired by authentic island cooking and family-style grilling, this dish became a staple in our kitchen — and now, it’s yours to master.
What makes these skewers truly special? It’s the combination of a honey pineapple chicken kabobs marinade with savory soy, bold garlic, ginger, and a hint of sesame. Paired with freshly diced red onions and green peppers, these chicken pineapple kabobs teriyaki-style offer a taste of paradise — right off your grill.
In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through how to create easy Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers, from the perfect marinade to expert grilling techniques. You’ll also discover flavor variations, storage tips, and serving suggestions that turn this crowd-favorite into a go-to recipe all year round.
Don’t miss our Loco Moco Hawaiian Lunch Recipe if you’re craving more island-style meals after this.
Let’s get into the sweet and savory magic of Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers — and why this recipe is one your grill will thank you for.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What Makes Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Skewers So Addictive?
Origins of the Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Skewers
The story of Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers starts with a fusion of cultures. Hawaiian cuisine blends Polynesian traditions with Asian, American, and Pacific Islander influences. One of the most popular creations to come out of this melting pot is the sweet and savory chicken pineapple kabob. Inspired by the traditional huli-huli chicken and enhanced with tropical fruit like fresh pineapple, this dish captures the laid-back island vibe in every bite.
Hawaiians have long used pineapple as both a tenderizer and a sweetener in their cooking. When grilled, pineapple caramelizes, intensifying its natural sugars and creating an irresistible contrast against smoky, juicy chicken. These skewers became a barbecue favorite not just in Hawaii, but around the mainland U.S., thanks to their vibrant look, rich flavor, and simplicity.
Why Sweet and Savory Flavor Blends Work So Well
The magic of Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers lies in their harmony of flavors. The natural sugars in pineapple, when grilled, develop a light char that pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the chicken marinade — made from low-sodium soy sauce, dark brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. This balance is no accident. Sweet and salty combinations activate different taste receptors, enhancing the overall eating experience and leaving you wanting more.
Marinated chicken absorbs every element of the pineapple chicken kabobs marinade — from the umami depth of soy to the subtle zing of rice vinegar. The result? A layered bite where no flavor dominates, yet everything shines. That’s why easy Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers are addictive: each component complements the next without overwhelming your taste buds.
The Secret of Pineapple’s Effect on Chicken Texture
One often-overlooked secret of chicken pineapple kabobs teriyaki or Hawaiian-style is the pineapple itself. Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which breaks down protein and tenderizes meat. While it’s important not to over-marinate (more on that later), using pineapple juice in your marinade ensures your chicken is not just flavorful — it’s also incredibly juicy and tender.
This tenderizing quality makes pineapple a natural fit for kabobs, where high heat grilling demands moisture retention. Add in the boldness of garlic, the kick of ginger, and a touch of sesame oil, and you’ve got a chicken skewer that’s succulent from edge to center.
Discover great ideas like Doritos Cheesy Chicken Casserole if you enjoy layered, savory dishes that pack flavor.
That’s the heart of what makes Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers so unforgettable — a perfect storm of science, culture, and irresistible taste.
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How to Make Irresistible Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Skewers at Home
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are packed with bold, sweet, and savory island flavors thanks to a tangy pineapple-soy marinade. Juicy chunks of chicken are skewered with fresh pineapple, red onion, and bell peppers for the perfect grilled summer meal.
Ingredients
- Marinade:
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup canned pineapple juice
- 4 Tbsp olive oil, divided, plus more for brushing grill
- 1 1/2 Tbsp rice vinegar
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (4 tsp)
- 1 Tbsp minced ginger
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Kebabs:
- 1 3/4 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, chopped into 1 1/4-inch cubes
- 3 cups (heaping) fresh cubed pineapple (about 3/4 of a 3 lb pineapple)
- 1 1/2 large green peppers, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces
- 1 large red onion, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, 2 Tbsp olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Season with 3/4 tsp pepper and salt to taste.
- Place chicken in a gallon-size resealable bag. Reserve 1/2 cup of the marinade in the refrigerator. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and refrigerate for 1 hour. Soak 10 wooden skewers in water during this time.
- Preheat a grill to medium heat, about 400°F (200°C).
- Drizzle the remaining 2 Tbsp olive oil over the red onion, bell pepper, and pineapple. Toss to coat. Season onion and bell pepper with salt and pepper.
- Thread red onion, bell pepper, pineapple, and chicken onto skewers, alternating until all chicken is used.
- Brush grill grates with olive oil, then place skewers on the grill. Grill for 5 minutes.
- Brush tops of skewers with 1/4 cup of the reserved marinade. Flip and brush the opposite sides with the remaining 1/4 cup marinade.
- Continue grilling for about 4 more minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally. Serve warm.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for extra juiciness if desired.
- Leftover marinade should not be reused unless boiled to eliminate bacteria.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Must-Have Ingredients for the Best Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Skewers Recipe

A Closer Look at the Sweet Pineapple Chicken Marinade
The flavor foundation of these Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers starts with the marinade — and it’s anything but basic. A bold and balanced mix of sweet, salty, and tangy elements comes together to soak every bite of chicken in tropical goodness. The base is ketchup, which adds a smooth tomato richness. But the real magic comes from dark brown sugar and low-sodium soy sauce — sweet meets umami in the best possible way.
Add to that canned pineapple juice, which not only infuses that iconic tropical sweetness but also helps tenderize the meat with its natural enzymes. A touch of rice vinegar lifts the flavor and balances out the sweetness, while minced garlic and ginger bring aromatic depth. Finish it off with a drizzle of sesame oil and you’ve got the ultimate pineapple chicken kabobs marinade. It’s simple, but every ingredient plays a key role in delivering flavor that clings to the chicken and caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
If you’re craving another bold-flavored marinade, check out Quick Easy Homemade KFC Style Chicken. It’s another great way to explore the power of marinade science.
Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts and Fresh Pineapple Cubes
For easy Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers, using the right chicken matters just as much as the marinade. Boneless, skinless chicken breast is the go-to choice. It’s lean, easy to cut into uniform chunks, and absorbs the sweet-and-savory marinade like a sponge. Each cube should be about 1¼ inches in size — large enough to stay juicy on the grill but small enough to cook through quickly.
When it comes to the pineapple, fresh always beats canned. A ripe, golden pineapple delivers juicy bursts of flavor and withstands high heat without falling apart. Cube it generously so that the outside caramelizes, while the inside stays soft and sweet.
The vibrant contrast between grilled pineapple and savory chicken is what sets this dish apart. These chunks create balance on the skewer and ensure every bite includes a little bit of everything.
Seasoning Tips for Maximum Flavor Absorption
While the marinade does the heavy lifting, a few smart seasoning tips can take your skewers to the next level. Before grilling, lightly drizzle the vegetables and pineapple with olive oil to enhance the grill marks and prevent sticking. Then give the bell peppers and onions a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to round out the flavors.
Remember to reserve a portion of the marinade before soaking the chicken. This reserved glaze is your finishing brush — adding a glossy, caramelized layer during grilling without risking cross-contamination.
And if you love sweet-and-spicy flavor combos, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade. It turns ordinary skewers into honey pineapple chicken kabobs with a fiery kick.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Easy Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Skewers

Full Preparation Method with Marinade
Making Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers from scratch doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a few pantry staples and fresh produce, you’ll be amazed at how simple this flavor-packed recipe is. Start by preparing the marinade — this is where the magic begins.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup dark brown sugar (packed)
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup canned pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 4 minced garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
This mixture is your pineapple chicken kabobs marinade — bursting with sweet, tangy, and umami flavors. Set aside 1/2 cup of the marinade in the refrigerator to use as a glaze during grilling. Pour the remaining marinade over 1¾ lbs of chicken breast chunks in a gallon-sized zip-top bag. Seal and refrigerate for 1 hour. While marinating, soak 10 wooden skewers in water for the same amount of time to prevent burning on the grill.
Assembling the Skewers Like a Pro
After the chicken has absorbed all that tropical goodness, it’s time to assemble your easy Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers. Cut your vegetables into uniform pieces — about 1¼-inch squares for red onions and green bell peppers. Toss the chopped veggies and 3 heaping cups of fresh pineapple cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
Now, thread the ingredients onto the skewers in this order for even cooking and visual appeal:
- Red onion
- Chicken chunk
- Pineapple cube
- Green bell pepper
- Repeat the pattern until the skewer is filled
Make sure you don’t overcrowd the skewers — leave a little space between ingredients to allow the heat to circulate and ensure a nice char.
These chicken pineapple kabobs teriyaki-style skewers are colorful, balanced, and built to grill beautifully.
Grilling Instructions and Temperature Guidance
Preheat your grill to medium heat (400°F or 200°C). Before placing the skewers down, brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure those perfect grill marks.
Place your assembled Hawaiian chicken kabobs directly on the grill grates (no foil needed — we’ll cover this more in Part 4). Grill them for 5 minutes, then brush the tops with 1/4 cup of your reserved marinade. Flip the skewers gently and brush the other side with the remaining 1/4 cup.
Continue grilling for about 4 more minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken hits 165°F (75°C). Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
The sugars in the marinade will caramelize slightly, giving your skewers a beautifully sticky, golden glaze. Your honey pineapple chicken kabobs are now ready to serve, bursting with juicy, sweet, and savory flavor in every bite.
Don’t miss our Crispy Honey Lime Chicken Tostada Towers for another perfect dish that blends fresh flavors with irresistible textures.
Expert Grilling Techniques for Juicy Chicken Pineapple Kabobs
Should You Grill Skewers on Foil or Directly Over the Flame?
One of the most debated steps in making Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers is whether to grill them directly on the grate or lay them over foil. If you’re aiming for flavor-packed skewers with that irresistible smoky char, the answer is clear — skip the foil.
Grilling directly allows every piece of marinated chicken and juicy pineapple to meet the heat head-on. This high-heat exposure caramelizes the sugars in the marinade, creating a rich, golden crust that foil simply can’t replicate. Foil, although cleaner and safer, prevents proper searing and can even steam the ingredients instead of giving them the grilled texture we all crave in pineapple chicken kabobs teriyaki style.
To protect the food without sacrificing texture, just brush the grill grates with olive oil before cooking. That’ll help prevent sticking while still giving your skewers that classic barbecue flair.
Timing It Right: How Long to Grill Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Skewers
Grilling time is everything. Overcooked chicken dries out fast — especially when cut into chunks. Undercooked chicken? That’s a safety risk. So, what’s the sweet spot for grilling easy Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers to perfection?
You’ll want to heat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F) and cook your skewers for a total of 9 to 10 minutes, turning once:
- Grill the first side for 5 minutes to develop a crust
- Flip, then cook for another 4 to 5 minutes
- Use a thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) at the center
During the final minutes, the marinade will caramelize beautifully, giving your skewers that signature glossy look and smoky-sweet finish.
If you’re into sticky-sweet recipes, don’t miss our Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken for another tropical grilled favorite.
How to Use Reserved Marinade Without Risking Food Safety
Here’s where a lot of home cooks go wrong: brushing cooked chicken with used marinade. That’s a big no. Luckily, there’s an easy fix.
Before marinating your chicken, set aside 1/2 cup of the marinade in a separate bowl. This reserved portion is clean, untouched, and perfect for brushing on skewers while grilling.
Once your Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers hit the grill:
- Brush with marinade halfway through cooking to build flavor and color
- Flip and brush the other side for even coverage
- For added shine and flavor, give them a final swipe just before serving
This safe approach enhances flavor without any food safety concerns. Plus, the added glaze ensures every bite of these honey pineapple chicken kabobs is bursting with that sweet, island-inspired finish.
Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs Marinade Science Explained
Breaking Down the Pineapple Juice Tenderizing Effect
Ever wondered why Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers turn out so tender, juicy, and flavorful when grilled? It’s not just luck—it’s science. The secret lies in one key ingredient: pineapple juice.
Pineapple juice contains bromelain, a natural enzyme that breaks down the proteins in meat. This makes it an incredibly powerful tenderizer. When used in the pineapple chicken kabobs marinade, bromelain gently softens the chicken’s fibers, allowing the marinade to penetrate deeper and deliver richer flavor throughout.
But here’s the catch: too much of a good thing can backfire. If you marinate the chicken for too long in pineapple juice, the enzymes can break it down excessively, resulting in mushy, unappetizing meat. That’s why Hawaiian chicken kabobs marinade needs to be balanced not just in taste, but in time as well.
Marinating Time Limits: How Long Is Too Long?
Timing is everything when it comes to marinating chicken pineapple kabobs teriyaki-style. Unlike tougher meats like beef, chicken doesn’t need hours and hours to absorb flavor. In fact, over-marinating can be a major mistake, especially when pineapple juice is involved.
For best results:
- Marinate for 60 minutes in the fridge
- Avoid going over 2 hours to prevent overly soft or stringy chicken
- Always refrigerate your marinated chicken for safety
This short marinade time is enough to let the flavors soak in while letting the bromelain do its work—without ruining the texture. That’s what makes easy Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers so perfect for weeknights or last-minute grill sessions. You get bold flavor in minimal time.
Looking for more fast and flavorful chicken ideas? Check out Quick Easy Homemade KFC Style Chicken for another speedy recipe that delivers big taste.
Best Tips for Balancing Sweetness and Salt
One of the standout features of this Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers recipe is its harmonious blend of sweet and salty. But getting that balance just right is key to avoiding overly sugary or overly salty skewers.
Here’s how to hit the sweet spot:
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels
- Opt for dark brown sugar, which adds molasses richness without being too sweet
- Add a splash of rice vinegar for a subtle tang that brightens the marinade
- Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil to deepen the flavor profile
And don’t forget the garlic and ginger. These two aromatics don’t just add flavor—they also balance the sweetness from the pineapple and brown sugar with their earthy heat.
If you want to take it even further, try a honey pineapple chicken kabobs variation. Add a spoonful of honey to the marinade for extra shine and sweetness, then balance it with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Sweet, salty, and just a touch spicy? That’s the kind of flavor layering that elevates your grilling game.
Flavor Variations and Customizations You’ll Love
Honey Pineapple Chicken Kabobs Variation
If you’re craving an even sweeter spin on classic Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers, the honey pineapple chicken kabobs version might be exactly what you’re looking for. This twist enhances the existing marinade by adding 2 tablespoons of honey to the mix. The result? A luscious, golden glaze that clings to the chicken and pineapple as it grills, delivering a next-level caramelized finish.
To balance the added sweetness, consider increasing the rice vinegar slightly or tossing in a dash of cayenne pepper. This small change keeps your skewers flavorful, not sugary, and adds a subtle heat that elevates every bite. Serve these sticky-sweet kabobs with coconut rice or a fresh cucumber salad for a meal that feels straight off a tropical resort menu.
Teriyaki Chicken Pineapple Kabobs Twist
Want something more savory with that classic Asian-inspired edge? Then you’ve got to try the teriyaki chicken pineapple kabobs variation. For this twist, swap out the brown sugar and ketchup in the marinade for 1/3 cup of thick teriyaki sauce. You’ll still keep the pineapple juice, garlic, and ginger, but the teriyaki sauce introduces that glossy, rich umami flavor that pairs beautifully with grilled pineapple.
To go all in, brush extra teriyaki sauce on the skewers during the final few minutes of grilling. This not only intensifies the flavor but also adds a beautifully lacquered finish that looks just as mouthwatering as it tastes.
If you love bold Asian fusion dishes, don’t miss our Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce — it’s another great recipe that balances protein with vibrant veggies.
Spicy vs Mild Flavor Adjustments
One of the reasons easy Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers are so popular is their adaptability. You can make them spicy, tangy, mild, or smoky depending on your audience.
Want heat? Add:
- 1 teaspoon of chili garlic paste
- A few dashes of hot sauce
- Crushed red pepper flakes in the marinade
Prefer mild and kid-friendly? Keep the base recipe but skip strong spices. Use more garlic and ginger for flavor without heat. You can also replace sesame oil with a neutral oil for a cleaner profile.
Smoked paprika is another great addition if you want to introduce a subtle BBQ note without going full-on spicy. And if you’re a fan of fusion, try brushing the skewers with a smoky chipotle pineapple glaze instead of the original marinade for a bold twist on chicken pineapple kabobs teriyaki.

Serving Ideas for Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Skewers
Perfect Sides to Elevate Your Chicken Pineapple Kabobs
You’ve just grilled a batch of golden, juicy Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers—so what now? It’s time to round out the meal with the perfect sides that match the tropical flair and bold flavors of your kabobs. These vibrant skewers are versatile, making it easy to build a complete plate that’s both eye-catching and satisfying.
For a true island-inspired pairing, go with fluffy coconut rice. The mild sweetness enhances the grilled pineapple and balances the savory marinade. Another staple? Pineapple fried rice with cashews and scallions, which echoes the sweet-and-savory notes of the chicken. If you’re after something heartier, garlic herb roasted potatoes or grilled sweet corn add a rustic touch to the plate.
Craving something fresh? Try a tangy mango cucumber salad or lime-dressed coleslaw. Both offer a crisp, refreshing bite that contrasts beautifully with the rich, caramelized glaze from the pineapple chicken kabobs marinade.
Build a Complete Meal Around Your Skewers
Pairing options for your easy Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers don’t have to be complicated. Just a few thoughtful additions can turn a great dish into a full, balanced spread.
Here’s a helpful guide to get you started:
Side Dish | Flavor Benefit | Complements |
---|---|---|
Coconut Jasmine Rice | Light, slightly sweet | Enhances pineapple, balances saltiness |
Mango Cucumber Salad | Bright, citrusy crunch | Refreshes the palate |
Roasted Garlic Potatoes | Hearty and savory | Adds texture and depth |
Tropical Coleslaw | Creamy with zest | Perfect contrast to grilled meat |
Pineapple Fried Rice | Sweet-savory medley | Doubles down on tropical flavor |
Grilled Corn with Lime Butter | Smoky, sweet, tangy | Brings out grill flavor of kabobs |
Each side brings out something different in your Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers recipe, whether it’s highlighting the sweetness of the pineapple or cutting through the savory richness of the marinade.
Island-Style Plating Tips for Maximum Impact
How you serve your chicken pineapple kabobs teriyaki-style can be just as important as how you cook them. Want your meal to look as amazing as it tastes? A few presentation tips can transform your table into a tropical paradise.
Serve the skewers on a wooden cutting board, banana leaf, or colorful platter to create a warm, laid-back vibe. Add lime wedges for extra zest and fresh herbs like cilantro or mint to brighten up the plate.
If you’re entertaining, offer a few simple sauces on the side—think spicy pineapple dip, garlic-lime aioli, or even a creamy coconut drizzle. These elevate your Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers into a build-your-own tropical meal everyone will remember.
Pair with drinks like sparkling passion fruit juice, minty lime spritzers, or even grilled pineapple margaritas to stay on theme.

Storage, Reheating, and Leftover Recipes
Storing Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Skewers the Right Way
After enjoying a platter of juicy, flame-kissed Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers, you might find yourself with a few extras — and trust us, that’s not a bad thing. Knowing how to store these skewers properly ensures you don’t lose their flavor or texture when saving them for later.
First, let the skewers cool to room temperature. Then, gently remove the grilled chicken, pineapple, onions, and peppers from the sticks. Place them in a sealed, airtight container. If you can, keep the pineapple separate to prevent it from softening the chicken during storage. Refrigerate your leftovers for up to 3 days.
Planning to stretch the magic further? These skewers freeze beautifully. Just wrap portions in parchment paper, seal them in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Without Drying Out Your Skewers
The key to reheating leftover chicken pineapple kabobs teriyaki-style is to restore their tenderness without stripping away flavor. Microwaving is quick, but can lead to uneven heating. For the best result, reheat gently using the oven or stovetop.
Oven method:
- Preheat to 325°F
- Place the kabob pieces on a foil-lined tray
- Cover lightly with another sheet of foil to trap moisture
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until warmed through
Stovetop method:
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat
- Add a small amount of oil
- Toss in the chicken and pineapple, stirring occasionally for 5–7 minutes
Want to freshen up the flavor? Brush your leftovers with a bit of pineapple chicken kabobs marinade or teriyaki sauce while reheating. This not only brings back the glaze but also keeps the meat juicy and flavorful.
And if you’re into meals that reheat well, check out Quick Easy Homemade KFC Style Chicken — another dinner favorite with great next-day potential.
Creative Ways to Reuse Leftovers You’ll Look Forward To
Leftover Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers are far from boring — in fact, they’re a shortcut to brand-new, mouthwatering meals. Whether you’re meal-prepping or just feeling creative, here are a few quick transformations:
- Tropical Chicken Bowls: Serve leftover chicken and pineapple over warm jasmine rice with avocado, shredded carrots, and a lime vinaigrette.
- Sweet-Savory Wraps: Roll the grilled pieces in a flour tortilla with crunchy slaw, cilantro, and a drizzle of chili-lime sauce.
- Mini Teriyaki Flatbreads: Spread naan or pita with teriyaki glaze, top with the kabob pieces and mozzarella, and bake until golden.
- Island Quesadillas: Combine chopped chicken, grilled pineapple, and Monterey Jack cheese in a tortilla, then toast it golden in a pan.
Each of these meals offers a totally new way to enjoy your easy Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers without any waste — just endless tropical flavor.
Don’t miss our Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken if you’re looking for another sweet-and-savory dish that keeps well and reheats like a dream.
Real Feedback & Our About Page Story
How Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Skewers Became a Community Favorite
It’s no surprise that our Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Skewers recipe has become one of the most-loved dishes in our Cooking Flash community. What began as a simple island-inspired experiment turned into a crowd-pleasing favorite, especially during summer BBQ season. Over the years, readers from all over the country have shared how this dish brought flavor and joy to their family gatherings, weeknight dinners, and even holiday cookouts.
Some said it was the pineapple chicken kabobs marinade that won them over — sweet, savory, and just the right amount of tang. Others loved the charred pineapple, which adds a tropical twist to their usual grilled chicken routine. A few fans even turned this recipe into their signature dish for every potluck or party, always getting asked, “Did you bring those Hawaiian skewers again?”
Many told us they first discovered this recipe while looking for easy Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers that didn’t require fancy ingredients or hours of prep. What they found was a simple but deeply flavorful dish that quickly became part of their go-to rotation. Whether served with rice, folded into wraps, or enjoyed straight from the skewer, the feedback has been clear: this is a keeper.
Our Story: From a Home Kitchen to Flavorful Tables Everywhere
At Cooking Flash, we started with a simple goal — to help everyday home cooks create restaurant-quality meals without complicated steps. Our founder, a home cook turned flavor-obsessed creator, built this platform on one belief: that anyone can bring bold, memorable meals to the table with a little inspiration and a reliable recipe.
The idea for these Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers came after a trip to a local food fair, where a grilled pineapple kabob stole the show. That bite — juicy chicken glazed in tropical sauce, smoky fruit, and a touch of heat — sparked the desire to re-create and share the experience. We tweaked the marinade, grilled dozens of batches, and perfected a version that worked in any backyard or kitchen across America.
The recipe first appeared on our site as a “quick summer grilling idea,” but it didn’t take long for it to gain traction. It checked every box: fast prep, vibrant flavor, family-friendly, and super customizable. From there, it became a top search and one of the most pinned dishes in our community.
And we’re still just getting started.
We now have an entire section of our site dedicated to island-inspired meals, easy marinade tips, and reader-requested recipes that make the most of simple ingredients — all built around the idea that food can be fun, flavorful, and accessible.
Bring Tropical Flavor Home with Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Skewers
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both effortless and unforgettable, these Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers are your perfect match. With their sweet-savory glaze, juicy grilled chicken, and caramelized pineapple chunks, every bite captures the essence of laid-back island flavor.
Whether you’re grilling outdoors on a summer afternoon or whipping up a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers bold taste with minimal hassle. Plus, it’s flexible—go teriyaki, honey-glazed, or spicy, and it still tastes amazing. And thanks to its make-ahead and leftover potential, it’s more than just a one-time dinner; it’s a recipe you’ll keep returning to.
From casual BBQs to dinner parties to meal prep for the week, easy Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers check every box. They’re delicious, eye-catching, and guaranteed to be a crowd favorite—no matter how or where you serve them.
Ready to impress with a flavor that’s sweet, smoky, and just a little bit tropical? Fire up the grill and let these kabobs do the talking.Tray this : Air Fryer Steak Bites
Do you put skewers in foil or on grill?
To get that irresistible char and smoky finish, place the skewers directly on the grill. Avoid using foil — it blocks the high heat that gives your easy Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers those delicious grill marks and caramelized edges. Just brush the grill with oil beforehand to prevent sticking, and turn the skewers halfway through cooking for even results.
How long to marinate Hawaiian chicken?
For maximum flavor and optimal texture, marinate your Hawaiian chicken for at least 60 minutes. This gives the meat enough time to soak up the sweet, tangy, and savory notes from the pineapple chicken kabobs marinade. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can add noticeable flavor, but an hour is the sweet spot for best results.
How long can you marinate chicken with pineapple?
Pineapple contains bromelain, a natural enzyme that tenderizes meat quickly. While that’s great for juicy chicken, it also means you shouldn’t marinate for too long. For Hawaiian chicken pineapple skewers, it’s best to marinate the chicken for about 1 hour. Going beyond 2 hours may cause the meat to become too soft or mushy due to the enzyme activity.