Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Chicken pieces are soaked in a sweet and tangy marinade, making these Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs a delightful addition to any summer gathering. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or family dinners, they offer a burst of tropical flavor that everyone will love. The combination of succulent chicken, juicy pineapple, and colorful peppers creates a vibrant dish that not only tastes amazing but looks stunning on the plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these kebabs come together in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The marinade combines sweet and savory elements, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: These kebabs can be served as a main course or as appetizers at parties.
• Healthy Option: Made with lean chicken and fresh veggies, they provide a nutritious meal that’s satisfying and delicious.
• Great for Grilling: Perfect for outdoor cooking, the grilling process adds a smoky flavor that enhances the dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, gather the essential tools listed below. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving the perfect char and smoky flavor on your kebabs.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining the marinade ingredients thoroughly before soaking the chicken.
• Basting brush: Helps apply marinade evenly 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, plus more for brushing grill)
• 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 Kebabs

• 1 3/4 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (chopped into 1 1/4-inch cubes)
• 3 cups (heaping) fresh cubed pineapple (about 3/4 of 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

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Stir in three-quarters teaspoon pepper and season with salt if desired.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken in a gallon-size resealable bag. Reserve half cup of the marinade in refrigerator then pour remaining marinade over chicken. Seal bag and refrigerate for one hour while soaking ten wooden skewer sticks in water.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill over medium heat to about 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile, drizzle remaining two tablespoons of olive oil over red onion, bell pepper, and pineapple; toss to combine. Season red onion and bell pepper with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

Thread red onion, bell pepper, pineapple, and chicken onto skewers until all of the chicken has been used.

Step 5: Grill the Kebabs

Brush grill grates with olive oil then place skewers on grill. Grill for five minutes then brush tops with one-quarter cup of reserved marinade. Rotate to opposite side and brush remaining quarter cup of marinade on that side.

Step 6: Check Doneness

Allow to grill about four minutes longer or until chicken registers 165°F (75°C) in center on an instant-read thermometer. Serve warm!

With your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs ready to serve, get ready for compliments from family and friends! Enjoy this tasty dish at your next gathering!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Serving Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs can elevate your dining experience with vibrant flavors and delightful combinations. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to consider.

Pair with Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice – The light fragrance of jasmine rice complements the sweetness of the kebabs.
• Coconut Rice – A creamy, tropical side that pairs perfectly with the flavors of pineapple and chicken.

Add a Salad

• Tropical Fruit Salad – Mix fresh fruits like mango, kiwi, and berries for a refreshing contrast.
• Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy slaw adds texture and balances the sweetness of the kebabs.

Accompany with Dips

• Sweet Chili Sauce – A spicy-sweet dip that enhances the flavor of the grilled chicken.
• Honey Mustard Sauce – This creamy sauce provides a tangy kick that complements the marinade.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

To achieve the best Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, follow these simple tips. They will ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Marinate Properly – Allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least one hour to absorb maximum flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Incorporate fresh pineapple and colorful peppers for vibrant taste and presentation.
• Preheat Your Grill – Make sure your grill reaches 400°F (200°C) before cooking for even grilling and caramelization.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers – Leave space between ingredients on skewers to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn grilled until slightly charred makes a perfect summer side.
2. Quinoa Salad – A light salad packed with nutrients that complements the flavors of chicken and pineapple.
3. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy potatoes topped with butter or sour cream provide a hearty addition.
4. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is great for soaking up any leftover sauce from your kebabs.
5. Zucchini Noodles – Light and healthy, zucchini noodles can be sautéed briefly for a fresh side dish.
6. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Using dry chicken – Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness. Ensure you monitor the grill temperature and use a thermometer to check for doneness.
• Skipping the marinade – Not marinating the chicken enough can result in bland kebabs. Aim for at least one hour in the marinade for maximum flavor.
• Not soaking skewers – If using wooden skewers, failing to soak them can lead to burning. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling.
• Ignoring vegetable size – Cutting vegetables too small may cause them to burn before the chicken cooks. Keep all pieces uniform at about 1 1/4 inches for even cooking.
• Crowding the grill – Overloading the grill makes it difficult for heat to circulate. Leave space between each skewer to ensure even cooking and nice grill marks.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

• Wrap kebabs tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kebabs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place kebabs on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and reheat kebabs for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs.

What are Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are skewers of marinated chicken, pineapple, and vegetables grilled together for a sweet, savory flavor that’s perfect for summer meals.

How long should I marinate Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least one hour or overnight if possible. This enhances the taste significantly.

Can I make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs in the oven?

Yes! You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

What can I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

These kebabs pair beautifully with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables. You could also serve them with a refreshing tropical fruit salad.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices in the marinade. Give this recipe a try during your next cookout; it’s sure to impress!