Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs are not just a dish; they are a vibrant culinary passport, transporting your taste buds straight to a tropical paradise with every juicy, savory, and sweet bite. Imagine the sun setting, the grill sizzling, and an intoxicating aroma filling the air – that’s the magic these extraordinary kebabs bring to any occasion. I find that the ingenious combination of tender, marinated chicken and succulent beef, perfectly interwoven with crispy, smoky bacon and chunks of sweet, caramelized pineapple, creates an unparalleled symphony of flavors and textures.

This delightful fusion, drawing inspiration from the bold, refreshing flavors of the Pacific, offers a playful nod to the spirit of aloha. People adore this dish for its incredible versatility, its eye-catching presentation, and the sheer joy of biting into such a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and smoky notes. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue, a casual get-together, or simply seeking an exciting weeknight dinner, these Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs promise an unforgettable culinary adventure. They are an effortless way to infuse a little sunshine into your meal, making them a perennial favorite for all ages. Get ready to skewer your way to a delicious escape!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Ultimate Hawaiian Marinade:
  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce (I find this gives the best flavor without being overly salty!)
  • ¼ cup pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple is perfect, or fresh if you’re juicing)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (for that lovely tang that tenderizes)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed (dark or light, both work wonders for caramelization)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (the fresher, the more vibrant the flavor!)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or pressed, if you prefer, for maximum garlic goodness)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for that quintessential Asian aromatic note)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, but I love a little kick!)
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs:
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes (thighs stay juicier, but breasts are leaner!)
  • 1 pound sirloin steak or beef tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes (choose a cut you love, ensuring it’s tender enough for quick cooking)
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into ½-inch pieces (this adds incredible flavor and texture!)
  • 1 fresh pineapple, cored and cut into 1-inch chunks, or 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple chunks, drained (I always opt for fresh when possible!)
  • 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces (for color and sweetness)
  • 1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces (for a slightly different flavor profile and more vibrant color)
  • 1 large red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces (it sweetens beautifully on the grill)
  • 1 cup whole button mushrooms, cleaned (optional, but they absorb the marinade wonderfully)
• Equipment & Garnishes:
  • 12-15 wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, remember to soak them!)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish (for a pop of freshness)
  • Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (adds a lovely crunch and aesthetic)

Preparing the Ultimate Hawaiian Marinade:

Alright, let’s kick things off with what truly elevates these Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs – our spectacular marinade! This isn’t just any marinade; it’s a carefully balanced blend designed to tenderize, infuse flavor, and create that beautiful caramelized glaze we all crave. Trust me, this step is absolutely crucial for an explosion of taste in every bite.

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, I like to start by pouring in the ½ cup of low-sodium soy sauce. Then, I add the ¼ cup of pineapple juice. This juice isn’t just for a fruity note; its enzymes actually help to tenderize the meat, a little culinary secret! Next, goes in the 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, which provides a lovely tang and works with the pineapple juice to break down muscle fibers, ensuring our chicken and beef cubes become incredibly tender.
2. Add Sweetness and Aromatics: Now for the sweetness! I pack 2 tablespoons of brown sugar firmly into my measuring spoon and add it to the mixture. This sugar is absolutely vital for achieving that gorgeous, slightly sticky, caramelized crust on our kebabs when they hit the heat. Next up, the aromatics that give this marinade its “Hawaiian” soul: I finely grate 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger directly into the bowl. Oh, the aroma is just intoxicating already! And of course, no savory marinade is complete without garlic, so I mince or press 2 cloves – the more pungent, the better in my opinion!
3. Introduce the Finishing Touches: To round out the flavor profile, I drizzle in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. This gives our marinade a wonderful nutty, umami depth that truly ties all the flavors together. For those of us who appreciate a little warmth, I sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes; feel free to adjust this to your spice preference, or omit it entirely if you’re not a fan of heat. Finally, a generous grind of fresh black pepper adds a touch of earthiness.
4. Whisk Until Combined: I grab a whisk and thoroughly combine all these glorious ingredients. You want to make sure the brown sugar is completely dissolved and everything is well integrated. This ensures every piece of chicken, beef, pineapple, and veggie gets coated evenly with this flavor bomb.
5. Reserve for Basting (Optional, but recommended!): Here’s a pro tip I always follow: Before adding any raw meat, I sometimes spoon out about ¼ cup of this pristine marinade and set it aside in a small, separate bowl. This will be my basting sauce later, ensuring no cross-contamination while still allowing us to layer on more flavor during cooking.
6. Marinate the Proteins: In a large, non-reactive bowl or a resealable plastic bag, I combine my cubed chicken and beef. Then, I pour the remaining marinade over the meat, making sure every piece is thoroughly coated. I give it a good toss or massage the bag to distribute the marinade evenly. This is where the magic truly happens! I seal the bag or cover the bowl tightly and pop it into the refrigerator to marinate. For optimal flavor and tenderness, I recommend marinating for at least 2 hours, but if you have the time, 4 to 6 hours is ideal. I’ve even gone overnight (up to 12 hours) for maximum penetration, especially for the beef, which makes these Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs incredibly juicy and flavorful.

Prepping Your Kebab Components:

While our chicken and beef are soaking up all that amazing Hawaiian goodness, it’s the perfect time to get all our other kebab components ready. Uniformity in size is key here, my friends, as it ensures everything cooks evenly on the grill or in the oven, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others are overdone.

1. Chicken and Beef (Post-Marination): If you haven’t already, ensure your chicken breasts or thighs and sirloin steak or tenderloin are cut into uniform 1-inch cubes. Before marinating, I personally ensure these cuts are as consistent as possible. This consistency is vital for the grilling process of our Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs, as it prevents smaller pieces from drying out before larger ones are cooked through. Once marinated, simply drain off any excess marinade that hasn’t been absorbed, and pat the meat lightly if it seems too wet.
2. Prepare the Bacon: This is a game-changer for Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs! I take my 8 slices of thick-cut bacon and cut them into ½-inch pieces. Now, here’s my trick: I like to slightly par-cook the bacon before threading it onto the skewers. You can do this by placing the bacon pieces in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels and microwaving for 1-2 minutes, just until some of the fat renders and they start to crisp slightly but are still pliable. Alternatively, you can briefly pan-fry them for a minute or two. This prevents the bacon from being undercooked and limp on the skewer, and it renders some fat, which then bastes the other ingredients as it cooks further – pure genius!
3. Pineapple Perfection: If you’re using a fresh pineapple, which I highly recommend for its vibrant flavor, first, carefully cut off the top and bottom. Then, stand it upright and slice off the skin in downward strips, following the curve of the fruit. Next, I core the pineapple (a pineapple corer makes this a breeze, but a knife works too!). Finally, cut the cored pineapple into beautiful, bite-sized 1-inch chunks. If you’re using canned pineapple, simply drain the chunks thoroughly. The sweetness and acidity of the pineapple are crucial for the “Hawaiian” aspect of these kebabs!
4. Bell Pepper Prep: I grab my red and green bell peppers. After washing them thoroughly, I cut them in half, remove the seeds and white membranes, and then cut them into roughly 1-inch squares. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers not only look stunning on the skewer but also offer a delightful crunch and subtle sweetness that complements the meat and pineapple perfectly.
5. Red Onion Readiness: The red onion also needs to be cut into 1-inch pieces. I find it easiest to quarter the onion and then separate the layers, ensuring each piece is robust enough to stay on the skewer without falling apart during grilling. Red onion becomes wonderfully sweet and tender when cooked, adding another layer of flavor to our Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs.
6. Mushroom Magic (Optional): If you’re adding mushrooms, make sure they are cleaned gently with a damp cloth – avoid soaking them as they absorb water like sponges! I prefer to use whole button mushrooms, as their size is usually perfect for kebabs, and they absorb the marinade and cooking juices beautifully, becoming little flavor bombs.
7. Soak Your Skewers (Crucial for Wooden Skewers!): If you’re using wooden skewers, this step is absolutely non-negotiable! I place them in a shallow pan or a tall glass, weigh them down, and cover them completely with water. I let them soak for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for an hour or even longer. This prevents them from charring and burning on the grill, which can be such a frustrating thing to happen when you’re trying to achieve perfect Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs!

Assembling Your Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs:

Now comes the fun, creative part! Assembling your kebabs is an art form, really. The goal is not just to get everything on the stick, but to arrange the ingredients strategically for both visual appeal and, more importantly, even cooking and a harmonious blend of flavors in every single bite. Don’t be afraid to make these Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs your own!

1. Drain and Prepare Meat: First, ensure your marinated chicken and beef are drained from any excess marinade. While a little clinging marinade is good, too much can drip and cause flare-ups on the grill.
2. Start with a Sturdy Base: I like to start my skewers with a piece of a sturdy vegetable, like a red onion or a bell pepper. This acts as a ‘stopper’ and helps hold the other ingredients in place, preventing them from sliding off the skewer.
3. Alternating for Flavor and Visual Appeal: This is where the magic happens! The key to truly fantastic Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs is to alternate the different ingredients. I follow a general pattern like: onion – chicken – bell pepper – pineapple – beef – bacon – mushroom, and then repeat this sequence until the skewer is almost full. The alternating colors of the red and green bell peppers, the golden pineapple, the rich meats, and the crispy bacon create a beautiful mosaic that’s incredibly appetizing.
4. Incorporate the Bacon: When adding the par-cooked bacon, I like to fold each ½-inch piece in half or even roll it up slightly before threading it onto the skewer. This makes it easier to thread and ensures it cooks evenly, allowing its delicious rendered fat to drip down and baste the other components.
5. Don’t Overcrowd Your Skewers: This is a very common mistake! It’s tempting to load up each skewer as much as possible, but resist the urge. I always leave a small gap (about ¼ inch) between each piece of food. This space is crucial because it allows the heat to circulate evenly around all the ingredients, ensuring everything cooks thoroughly and gets that beautiful sear. Overcrowded skewers can lead to steamed rather than grilled ingredients, and we certainly don’t want that for our Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs!
6. Leave Room for Handling: Remember to leave about 1-2 inches of empty skewer at each end. This provides a clean handle for turning the kebabs on the grill and makes them easier to manage without burning your fingers.
7. Repeat: Continue assembling the remaining skewers until all your delicious ingredients are used up. You’ll likely end up with 10-12 generous kebabs, depending on how densely you load them.

Cooking Your Flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs:

Now, it’s time to bring these beautiful Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs to life with some heat! Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or prefer the convenience of your oven, I’ve got you covered. The goal is to get that lovely char, perfectly cooked proteins, and sweet, tender vegetables.

Grilling Method (My Personal Favorite!):

Grilling truly imparts that smoky, char-grilled flavor that complements the Hawaiian marinade perfectly. This is my go-to for these kebabs!

1. Preheat the Grill: I always start by preheating my grill (gas or charcoal) to a medium-high heat, aiming for around 400-425°F (200-220°C). It’s essential to let it heat up thoroughly, as a hot grill sears the food quickly, locking in juices and preventing sticking.
2. Clean and Oil the Grates: Once hot, I use a sturdy wire brush to clean the grill grates thoroughly. Then, I lightly oil the grates with a high-smoke-point oil (like canola or grapeseed oil) using a folded paper towel dipped in oil and held with tongs. This crucial step helps prevent the kebabs from sticking and ensures those beautiful grill marks.
3. Placement and Initial Sear: Carefully arrange the assembled Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs on the hot, oiled grill grates. Make sure not to overcrowd the grill; cook them in batches if necessary to maintain consistent heat. I usually let them sear undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes on the first side to develop a good char.
4. Turning and Basting: After the initial sear, I use tongs to carefully turn the kebabs a quarter turn. This allows each side to get direct heat and develop those delicious grill marks. Continue cooking, turning every 3-4 minutes, for a total cooking time of about 15-20 minutes.
5. Basting with Reserved Marinade: During the last 5-7 minutes of cooking, this is where that reserved marinade comes in handy! Using a pastry brush, I generously baste the kebabs with the fresh, reserved marinade. This adds an extra layer of flavor and helps create a lovely, glossy glaze. Remember, only use marinade that hasn’t touched raw meat to prevent cross-contamination!
6. Checking for Doneness: The most important part! To ensure food safety and perfect texture, I always use an instant-read meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the beef should be cooked to your desired doneness (e.g., 130-135°F / 54-57°C for medium-rare, 140-145°F / 60-63°C for medium). The vegetables should be tender-crisp, and the pineapple beautifully caramelized.
7. Resting: Once cooked to perfection, transfer the Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs to a clean platter or cutting board. I loosely tent them with aluminum foil and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is incredibly tender and flavorful. Don’t skip this step!

Oven Broiling/Baking Method (Excellent Alternative!):

If grilling isn’t an option, your oven can still deliver delicious results for these Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs!

1. Preheat Oven/Broiler: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for baking, or turn on your broiler to high for a quicker, more char-like finish. If using the broiler, position an oven rack about 6-8 inches from the heating element.
2. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, then place an oven-safe wire rack on top. This allows air to circulate around the kebabs, mimicking the grill somewhat and preventing the bottom from getting soggy. Lightly spray the rack with cooking spray.
3. Arrange and Bake/Broil: Place the assembled Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs in a single layer on the prepared wire rack.
   • For Baking: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the chicken and beef are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
   • For Broiling: Broil for about 8-12 minutes, turning them every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning. Watch them closely, as broilers can vary wildly in intensity!
4. Baste and Finish: During the last few minutes of cooking, baste the kebabs with your reserved marinade to build up that glossy finish and extra flavor.
5. Check Doneness and Rest: As with grilling, check the internal temperature of the chicken (165°F / 74°C) and beef with an instant-read thermometer. Transfer to a platter, tent with foil, and rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Air Fryer Method (Great for Smaller Batches!):

For a quick small batch, the air fryer can work wonders for your Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs!

1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange in Single Layer: Place 2-3 kebabs (or as many as will fit without overcrowding) in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to trim the skewers if they are too long.
3. Cook: Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping and shaking the basket every 5-7 minutes, until the chicken and beef are cooked through and the vegetables are tender with some caramelization.
4. Baste: During the last 5 minutes, baste with reserved marinade.
5. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness.

Serving Your Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs:

Congratulations, you’ve just created some truly spectacular Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs! Now it’s time to present and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

1. Garnish for Freshness: Once rested, transfer the kebabs to a beautiful serving platter. I love to sprinkle them generously with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. The vibrant green not only adds a beautiful pop of color but also a wonderful fresh aroma and flavor that cuts through the richness of the meat and sweetness of the pineapple. For an extra touch of texture and visual appeal, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds is always a good idea!
2. Pair with Perfect Sides: These Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. My absolute go-to is a fluffy bed of jasmine or basmati rice, which soaks up any delicious juices. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a refreshing cucumber salad also complements the rich flavors beautifully. For an even more “Hawaiian” feast, consider serving them alongside some coconut rice or a classic macaroni salad.
3. Enjoy! Encourage everyone to dive in! You can either let guests slide the ingredients off the skewers onto their plates, or, if you’re feeling fancy, you can carefully remove the cooked ingredients from the skewers onto a serving dish for a more elegant presentation.

There you have it! A recipe for truly irresistible Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs that are bursting with tropical flavors, tender meats, and perfectly caramelized vegetables. I hope you love making and eating these as much as I do!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed through the vibrant, delectable world of what I truly believe is one of the most exciting and satisfying recipes you’ll ever try. If you’re looking for a dish that effortlessly brings together an explosion of flavors, a kaleidoscope of colors, and an aroma that will transport you straight to a sun-drenched island paradise, then your search ends here. This isn’t just another meal; it’s an experience, a celebration of bold tastes and textures that dance beautifully on your palate. The perfect marriage of savory and sweet, the smoky char from the grill, the tender bites of marinated meat, and the juicy, caramelized pineapple – it’s a symphony that is simply unparalleled. Seriously, I can’t emphasize enough how much of a game-changer this recipe is, especially when you’re craving something that feels both indulgent and surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s the kind of dish that garners immediate compliments and requests for the recipe, making you feel like a seasoned culinary wizard without hours of effort.

What makes these Hawaiian Chicken Beef Bacon Pineapple Kebabs a truly must-try recipe is their incredible versatility and the sheer joy they bring to any table. Imagine the succulent pieces of chicken and beef, infused with that incredible marinade, nestled beside crispy, smoky bacon and sweet, tangy pineapple chunks. Each bite is a delightful contrast, a harmonious blend that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a dish that’s perfect for those balmy summer barbecues, a fantastic centerpiece for a celebratory gathering, or even a delightful way to brighten up a weeknight dinner. The visual appeal alone is enough to whet anyone’s appetite – those vibrant hues of golden pineapple, rich brown meats, and crimson bacon create an irresistible mosaic on your plate. Plus, the ease of preparation, especially if you get everything prepped ahead of time, means you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones and, of course, the magnificent meal itself.

Elevate Your Meal: Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations

Now, while these kebabs are undeniably stellar on their own, pairing them with the right accompaniments can truly elevate your dining experience. For a classic tropical vibe, I love serving them alongside a fluffy bed of coconut rice; the subtle sweetness and creaminess perfectly complement the bold flavors of the kebabs. If you prefer something lighter, a simple jasmine rice or even a vibrant cauliflower rice works wonderfully. A fresh, crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a creamy coleslaw can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the meats and bacon. And don’t forget the power of additional grilled vegetables! Think bell peppers (red, yellow, orange for more color!), red onions, zucchini, or even cherry tomatoes skewered separately or roasted alongside the kebabs. These add more nutrients, texture, and visual appeal, turning your meal into a truly wholesome feast. For a truly immersive island experience, consider a side of grilled corn on the cob or a refreshing fruit salsa with mango and red onion.

Feeling adventurous? This recipe is incredibly adaptable, inviting you to experiment and make it your own. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or a dash of hot sauce to your plate. You could also experiment with different marinades – perhaps a ginger-soy blend for an Asian twist, or a tangy lime and cilantro marinade for a brighter, zesty profile. Don’t be afraid to swap out proteins; shrimp or pork tenderloin cubes would be absolutely delicious alternatives or additions. If you’re not a fan of threading skewers, you can easily turn this into a fantastic sheet pan meal! Simply chop all the ingredients, toss them in the marinade, spread them on a baking sheet, and roast until beautifully cooked and caramelized. This method makes for even easier cleanup and is perfect for batch cooking. Another fun variation is to deconstruct them into a bowl – serve the cooked chicken, beef, bacon, and pineapple over rice or quinoa, topped with your favorite fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro or green onions. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this incredible dish to your specific tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring it never gets old.

Your Culinary Adventure Awaits!

So, what are you waiting for? Take this recipe, gather your ingredients, fire up that grill, or preheat your oven, and embark on this incredibly rewarding culinary adventure. I promise you, the aroma filling your kitchen will be intoxicating, and the taste will be nothing short of spectacular. This is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create unforgettable meals and cherished memories with those you love. I am genuinely excited for you to experience the magic of these skewers. Once you’ve had a taste of this sensational dish, I would absolutely love to hear all about your experience! Did you stick to the original recipe, or did you put your own unique spin on it? What were your favorite serving suggestions? Please don’t hesitate to share your stories, your triumphs, and even your pictures in the comments section or on social media. Your feedback and creativity inspire not only me but also our entire community of food lovers. Let’s spread the joy of good food and make these delicious kebabs a staple in kitchens everywhere. Happy cooking, and prepare to be amazed!

Recipe

A delicious recipe

Prep Time
15 min

Cook Time
15 min

Total Time
15 min

Servings
4 servings

Ingredients

Instructions

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.