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Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kebabs

These delightful Hawaiian Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kebabs are juicy, sweet, and savory, perfect for a quick and impressive meal any night of the week.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 44 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Hawaiian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Kebabs
  • 1 pound Boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.25 inch cubes Thighs are juicier, but breasts work well if not overcooked.
  • 1 medium Fresh pineapple, cut into 1.25 inch chunks Fresh pineapple is preferred over canned for grilling.
  • 8 slices Bacon, thin cut, partially cooked Partially cook bacon until some fat renders for easier wrapping.
  • 1 each Red onion, chopped into skewer friendly chunks Add for flavor and color.
  • 1 each Bell pepper, chopped into skewer friendly chunks Add for flavor and color.
  • 1/3 cup Soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Brown sugar or honey
  • 2 tablespoons Lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons Neutral oil For the marinade and to oil the grill grates.
  • 3 cloves Minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Grated ginger
  • 1 pinch Chili flakes For a hint of spice.
  • Salt and pepper For finishing

Method
 

Marinate the Chicken
  1. Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, lime juice, oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes.
  2. Cubed and pat dry the chicken, then toss it in the marinade. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 to 4 hours.
  3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 to 30 minutes so they don’t burn.
  4. Partially cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat for about 4 to 5 minutes and drain on paper towels.
Skewer and Grill
  1. Preheat the grill to medium high and clean and oil the grates.
  2. Thread the kebabs in this pattern: chicken wrapped in bacon, fresh pineapple, red onion, bell pepper, and repeat.
  3. Place the kebabs on the grill and cook for 10 to 14 minutes, turning every few minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  4. Let the skewers rest for 3 minutes before serving.
Oven Option
  1. If grilling isn't an option, place skewers on a foil-lined sheet pan and bake at 425°F for 18 to 22 minutes, turning once halfway, then broil for 2 to 3 minutes for a char effect.

Notes

These kebabs are versatile. They can be served with sides like coconut rice, slaw, grilled corn, or tropical fruit salad. Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, and cook the kebabs in the oven if necessary. Leftovers can be reheated gently.