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Easy Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs Recipe (video)

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These Hawaiian teriyaki chicken kabobs are juicy, sweet, and savory with pineapple, bell peppers, and a rich homemade teriyaki glaze. Perfect for grilling or baking, they deliver a tropical flavor-packed meal the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 lbs chicken thigh (or chicken breast)
  • 1/2 large pineapple, cubed
  • 1 large red bell pepper, cubed
  • 1/2 large red onion, cubed
  • 8 bamboo skewers
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup sesame seed oil
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 10 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 1/2 inch chunk ginger (about 2 tbsp grated)
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp water
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, sesame seed oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and brown sugar. Grate in the ginger and mix well.
  2. Divide the sauce into two portions: 1 cup for marinating and 1 cup for the glaze.
  3. Simmer the glaze portion in a saucepan for 7–8 minutes until the garlic softens.
  4. Mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then add to the simmering glaze and cook for 30–60 seconds until thickened. Set aside.
  5. Cut chicken into chunks and cube pineapple, bell pepper, and red onion into similar-sized pieces.
  6. Place chicken, pineapple, and bell pepper in a dish and pour over the marinade portion of the sauce. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Soak bamboo skewers in water while the chicken marinates.
  8. Thread chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, and red onion onto skewers, alternating ingredients.
  9. Preheat oven to 475°F (or heat grill to high if grilling).
  10. Bake kabobs on a lined baking sheet for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through, or grill for 16–18 minutes, turning frequently, until chicken reaches 165°F internally.
  11. Switch oven to broil for 3–4 minutes per side for extra char if baking.
  12. Brush cooked kabobs with teriyaki glaze and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

  • Soaking bamboo skewers helps prevent burning during cooking.
  • Chicken thighs stay juicier, but chicken breast can be used for a leaner option.
  • Do not overcrowd skewers to ensure even cooking.
  • Reserve enough glaze for brushing after cooking for best flavor.
  • Serve with steamed rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

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