Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a delightful way to bring the flavors of summer to your table. These skewers feature tender chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, paired with juicy pineapple, vibrant peppers, and onions. Perfect for grilling gatherings, these kebabs will impress your family and friends while offering a taste of Hawaiian paradise right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues.
• Bursting with Flavor: The sweet and tangy marinade enhances the chicken and vegetables, creating a deliciously balanced dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or even use different proteins based on your preference, making it customizable.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are great for casual dinners, family gatherings, or parties.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Mixing bowl
• Grill
• Gallon-size resealable bag
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for threading chicken and vegetables together for grilling. They help create easy-to-eat portions.
• Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is needed to combine the marinade ingredients effectively before adding to the chicken.
• Grill: This tool allows you to achieve that perfect charred flavor that makes kebabs so appealing.
• Basting Brush: Helps evenly apply the marinade during grilling for enhanced flavor.

Ingredients

Chicken pieces are soaked in a simple, flavorful, sweet and tangy marinade then threaded onto skewers along with fresh pineapple and colorful peppers and onions. Amazingly delicious and the perfect summertime dinner!

For the Marinade

• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup canned pineapple juice
• 4 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
• 1 1/2 Tbsp rice vinegar
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 Tbsp minced ginger
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Skewers

• 1 3/4 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (chopped into 1 1/4-inch cubes)
• 3 cups fresh cubed pineapple (about 3/4 of a 3 lb pineapple)
• 1 1/2 large green peppers (diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces)
• 1 large red onion (diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces)

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Follow these steps to create mouthwatering Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs that everyone will love!

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl whisk together:
– Ketchup
– Brown sugar
– Soy sauce
– Pineapple juice
– 2 Tbsp olive oil
– Rice vinegar
– Minced garlic
– Minced ginger
– Sesame oil

Stir in pepper and season with salt if desired.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken in a gallon size resealable bag. Reserve 1/2 cup of the marinade in refrigerator then pour remaining marinade over chicken. Seal bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Meanwhile, soak wooden skewer sticks in water for about an hour.

Step 3: Prep the Grill & Vegetables

Preheat your grill over medium heat to approximately 400°F (200°C). Drizzle remaining olive oil over red onion, bell pepper, and pineapple; toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Thread red onion, bell pepper, pineapple, and marinated chicken onto skewers until all components are used up.

Step 5: Grill the Kebabs

Brush grill grates with olive oil. Place skewers on grill for about 5 minutes. Brush tops with reserved marinade then rotate skewers to grill opposite sides while brushing with remaining marinade.

Cook until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), about another 4 minutes. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance their flavors and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more delightful.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the kebabs over a bed of fluffy jasmine or brown rice for a hearty meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair the kebabs with a refreshing green salad, using mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.

In Tacos

• Use warm tortillas to create tasty tacos filled with the chicken kebabs and fresh toppings like avocado and salsa.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce, for added flavor.

As Part of a Platter

• Arrange the kebabs on a large platter alongside other grilled vegetables for a colorful presentation.

With Tropical Fruit Salsa

• Top the kebabs with mango or pineapple salsa for an extra burst of flavor and freshness.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

To ensure your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer: Letting the chicken marinate for longer than an hour enhances flavor absorption.

• Soak Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.

• Cut Evenly: Ensure all chicken and vegetable pieces are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.

• Preheat Grill: Always preheat your grill to ensure proper cooking temperature and searing.

• Use Instant Thermometer: Check the chicken’s internal temperature using an instant-read thermometer for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Complement your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs with these tasty side dishes that add variety to your meal.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and grilled until slightly charred adds a delicious crunch.
2. Coconut Rice: Lightly sweet coconut-infused rice pairs wonderfully with the tropical flavors of the kebabs.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the sweetness of the marinade.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with veggies offers a healthy contrast to the kebabs.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Crispy roasted sweet potatoes provide a perfect sweetness that complements the dish.
6. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is always a hit, providing an easy-to-make side that everyone loves.
7. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A quick stir-fry of seasonal vegetables brightens up your plate with colors and nutrients.
8. Fruit Salad: A mixed fruit salad showcases refreshing flavors that echo the tropical notes of the kebabs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, even the smallest missteps can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating chicken for less than an hour can lead to bland flavors. Always aim for at least one hour to let the marinade penetrate the meat.

• Using wooden skewers without soaking: Skewers that haven’t been soaked can easily catch fire on the grill. Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before use.

• Overcrowding the skewers: Placing too many pieces on each skewer prevents even cooking. Make sure to leave some space between each piece for proper heat circulation.

• Skipping the temperature check: Relying solely on cooking time can lead to undercooked chicken. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

• Neglecting to oil the grill grates: If you don’t oil your grill, kebabs may stick and break apart. Brush the grates with oil before grilling to prevent sticking.

• Ignoring resting time: Cutting into kebabs right off the grill releases juices and dries them out. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving for maximum juiciness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

• Wrap kebabs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kebabs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place kebabs on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil, and warm kebabs for about 5 minutes or until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, here are some commonly asked questions:

What is the best way to cut chicken for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Cut chicken into uniform cubes, ideally around 1 to 1.5 inches. This ensures even cooking on all sides.

Can I use other vegetables in my Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes based on your preference.

How do I ensure my Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs stay juicy?

Marinate your chicken well and avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and assemble kebabs just before grilling.

What dipping sauce pairs well with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

A sweet chili sauce or spicy mango salsa complements these kebabs perfectly, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are not only delicious but also quite versatile! You can customize them with your favorite vegetables or adjust the marinade’s sweetness level. Perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners, these kebabs are sure to impress your family and friends. Give this recipe a try and enjoy mouthwatering flavors that transport you straight to paradise!