Hawaiian Chicken Skewers
This Hawaiian Chicken Skewers recipe is a delightful twist on traditional kebabs. With a zesty soy and orange marmalade marinade, these skewers pack a flavorful punch. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home, they are versatile enough to impress guests or satisfy your family’s cravings. Experience the bright and tropical flavors that make this dish stand out!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: The marinade does all the heavy lifting in flavor, making the skewers simple to assemble.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of chicken, pineapple, and vegetables creates a delicious sweet and savory taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a festive gathering, these skewers are always a hit.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fruits, these skewers are a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out veggies or add your favorite fruits to make it your own.
Tools and Preparation
To get started with your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, gather the necessary tools for an efficient cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Gallon freezer bag
- Mixing bowl
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Basting brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides the ideal cooking environment for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor.
- Gallon freezer bag: Perfect for marinating chicken easily without making a mess.
- Basting brush: Helps to evenly coat the skewers with olive oil for better grilling results.

Ingredients
Here’s what you need for these delicious Hawaiian Chicken Skewers:
For the Chicken Marinade
- 3 skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons orange marmalade
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Skewers
- 12 skewers, (if wooden, soak in water for 20 minutes)
- 1 purple onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a gallon freezer bag, add the chicken breasts.
- In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth, orange marmalade, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic powder.
- Pour this marinade into the freezer bag with the chicken.
- Seal the bag and marinate in the fridge for 2-4 hours.
Step 2: Prepare for Grilling
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with pieces of purple onion, red bell pepper, and pineapple.
- If using wooden skewers, ensure they have soaked in water for 20-30 minutes.
Step 3: Grill and Serve
- Lightly brush the grill with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook them while turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Once cooked, sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve with rice or noodles if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Hawaiian Chicken Skewers!
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Skewers
Hawaiian Chicken Skewers make for a delightful main course that can be paired with various sides to elevate your meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Rice
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice complements the sweet and savory flavors of the skewers.
- Coconut Rice: Cook rice in coconut milk for a rich, tropical flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
With Noodles
- Garlic Noodles: Toss cooked noodles with garlic and butter for a quick side that adds depth to the dish.
- Sesame Noodles: A simple peanut or sesame sauce drizzled over noodles brings a nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of the skewers.
Fresh Salads
- Mango Avocado Salad: The creamy avocado and sweet mango provide a fresh contrast to the grilled chicken.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy blend of cabbage, carrots, and green onions dressed in a light soy vinaigrette adds texture and flavor.
Dipping Sauces
- Sweet Chili Sauce: A sweet and spicy sauce that enhances the flavors of the chicken.
- Soy Ginger Sauce: A tangy sauce made with soy sauce and fresh ginger, perfect for dipping or drizzling.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Skewers
To make your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers truly outstanding, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure juicy, flavorful kebabs every time you grill.
- Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 4 hours allows deeper flavor penetration.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance both taste and appearance, making your skewers more vibrant.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring they hold together during cooking.
- Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill sears the chicken quickly, locking in moisture and creating those beautiful grill marks.
- Turn Frequently: Rotating the skewers helps cook them evenly, preventing any sections from drying out while others remain undercooked.
- Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing your skewers to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps juices redistribute, resulting in juicier bites.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Skewers
Pair your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers with delicious side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options to consider.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy cabbage slaw dressed in a tangy vinegar-based dressing adds texture and brightness alongside the skewers.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that pairs well with grilled meats.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango, and kiwi enhances the Hawaiian theme while adding sweetness.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with lime butter complements the tropical flavors perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
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Ignoring the marinade time: Marinating the chicken for too little time can result in bland skewers. Aim for at least 2 hours, but up to 4 hours is ideal for maximum flavor.
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Not soaking wooden skewers: If using wooden skewers, failing to soak them in water can lead to burning on the grill. Soak them for at least 20-30 minutes before grilling.
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Overcrowding the skewers: Packing ingredients too tightly can prevent even cooking. Leave a little space between each piece of chicken and vegetables for better heat circulation.
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Skipping the olive oil brush: Not brushing the grill with olive oil can cause the skewers to stick. A light coating helps prevent sticking and enhances browning.
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Neglecting to check doneness: Cooking times may vary based on grill heat. Always check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Hawaiian Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Skewers
- To freeze, place cooked skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Skewers
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Chicken Skewers:
What can I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Skewers?
Serve these skewers with rice or noodles for a complete meal. You can also add a side salad or grilled vegetables.
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb if you prefer a different protein option.
How do I know when my Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are done?
Ensure chicken pieces reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The meat should be firm and no longer pink inside.
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers ahead of time, then refrigerate them until ready to grill.
Are there vegetarian options available?
For a vegetarian version, use tofu or tempeh in place of chicken and add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the marinade flavors. They’re perfect for family dinners or summer barbecues. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try!
Hawaiian Chicken Skewers
Enjoy flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Skewers with our easy recipe! Perfectly marinated and grilled for your next family meal. Try it today!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients
- 3 skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3 tablespoons orange marmalade
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 12 skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 20 minutes)
- 1 purple onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- In a gallon freezer bag, add the chicken breasts.
- In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth, orange marmalade, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic powder.
- Pour this marinade into the freezer bag with the chicken.
- Seal the bag and marinate in the fridge for 2-4 hours.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with pieces of purple onion, red bell pepper, and pineapple.
- If using wooden skewers, ensure they have soaked in water for 20-30 minutes.
- Lightly brush the grill with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook them while turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Once cooked, sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve with rice or noodles if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg