Glazed Turkey Kabob
Juicy turkey kabobs glazed with a sweet and savory pineapple-brown sugar-soy sauce, perfect for grilling or broiling, ideal for family gatherings and summer barbecues.
Ingredients
- 16 (1-inch) cooked Butterball turkey pieces (1 lb.) ⓘ
- water
- 1 (20 oz.) can pineapple chunks, drained ⓘ
- pineapple juice (from can)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce ⓘ
- 16 slices beef or turkey bacon, cut into halves ⓘ
- 2 large red bell peppers, cut into 24 triangles ⓘ
- 3 large green bell peppers, cut into 32 triangles ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler.
- Add water to the pineapple juice to make 1 cup.
- Combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce in a small saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over heat.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Set the glaze aside.
- Thread the cooked turkey pieces, pineapple chunks, bell pepper triangles, and bacon halves onto skewers.
- Place the skewers under the preheated broiler or on a grill.
- Brush the skewers with the prepared glaze during cooking.
- Cook until heated through and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
- Serve over hot cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the turkey pieces in the glaze for a few hours before grilling. If you prefer a smoky taste, try using smoked bacon or adding a dash of liquid smoke to the glaze. You can substitute the pineapple with other fruits like peaches or mangoes for a different twist. Additionally, using skewers made from metal can help eliminate the risk of burning wooden skewers under the broiler.
Serving Suggestions
These kabobs are delicious served over hot cooked rice, which soaks up the flavorful glaze. For a complete meal, pair them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. You might also enjoy them alongside a tangy dipping sauce, such as a sweet chili or a yogurt-based dressing. This dish pairs beautifully with Diet Perch for a diverse spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Glazed Turkey Kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. You can also use a microwave, but be cautious not to overheat, as it may dry out the turkey.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glazed Turkey Kabob contains roughly 1248 calories, with 21g protein, 234g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value) and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2995mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw turkey instead of cooked turkey pieces?
Yes, you can use raw turkey pieces, but ensure they are cooked thoroughly before serving. Adjust the cooking time to about 12-15 minutes under the broiler, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for the soy sauce?
If you need a soy sauce substitute, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor. Both alternatives will still provide a savory depth to the glaze.
How can I make these kabobs more kid-friendly?
To make the kabobs more appealing to kids, consider using colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes or zucchini in addition to the bell peppers. You can also let them assemble their own skewers, allowing for personal customization, which can make the meal more fun.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).