Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a delightful and vibrant dish that brings the taste of summer to your table. With juicy chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, these kebabs are perfect for backyard barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for delicious grilled flavors. The addition of fresh pineapple and colorful vegetables makes each bite burst with flavor, making this recipe a standout choice for your next meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal prep time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade combines sweet ketchup and brown sugar with savory soy sauce and garlic, creating a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the vegetables or use leftover ingredients from your fridge to make these kebabs your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, these Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs fit right in.
• Healthy and Filling: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from veggies, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: These are essential for holding all ingredients together while grilling. They make it easy to flip and serve the kebabs.
• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to whisk together the marinade thoroughly, ensuring every piece of chicken is well coated.
• Instant-read Thermometer: This tool ensures your chicken is cooked safely without overcooking it, keeping it juicy.

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 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

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, 2 Tbsp olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Stir in 3/4 tsp 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 the refrigerator then pour the remaining marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Meanwhile, soak wooden skewers in water for about an hour.

Step 3: Preheat Grill & Prepare Vegetables

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

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

Thread red onion, bell pepper, pineapple, and marinated chicken onto skewers until all ingredients have been used.

Step 5: Grill Kebabs

Brush grill grates with olive oil before placing skewers on them. Grill for about 5 minutes; brush tops with 1/4 cup of reserved marinade. Rotate skewers to grill opposite side while brushing remaining marinade on them.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

Allow kebabs to grill for about another 4 minutes or until chicken registers an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) on an instant-read thermometer. Serve warm!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a fun and vibrant dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, these kebabs can be served in versatile ways to delight your guests.

With Fresh Salads

• Tropical Fruit Salad: Combine fresh fruits like mangoes, strawberries, and kiwis for a refreshing side that complements the sweet and tangy flavors.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances the sweetness of the kebabs, making it an ideal pairing.

On Rice or Quinoa

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light aroma of jasmine rice pairs beautifully with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, soaking up any extra marinade.
• Coconut Quinoa: For a twist, cook quinoa in coconut milk for added flavor and creaminess.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce adds an extra kick and is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice with their sweet.
• Teriyaki Sauce: Drizzle teriyaki sauce on top or serve it on the side for an additional layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

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

• Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour. This enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pineapple, peppers, and onions elevate the dish’s taste. They provide a natural sweetness that pairs well with the chicken.
• Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated before adding kebabs. This helps achieve nice grill marks and seals in moisture.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow kebabs to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps retain juices and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Pairing sides with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter complements the flavors of the kebabs perfectly.
2. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a savory crunch that balances out sweet flavors.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a cool contrast; try adding lime juice for brightness.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring depth to your plate.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that everyone loves.
6. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad with vinaigrette can add variety and texture alongside your kebabs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Avoiding these common mistakes will ensure your kebabs turn out delicious every time.

• Not marinating long enough – Marinating the chicken for at least an hour helps infuse flavors. Don’t rush this step for the best taste.
• Using low-quality skewers – Wooden skewers can burn easily. Always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Overcrowding the skewers – If you pack too much on each skewer, cooking will be uneven. Leave space between pieces for even grilling.
• Ignoring the grill temperature – Cooking at too high or low a temperature can lead to dry chicken or undercooked kebabs. Aim for medium heat around 400°F (200°C).
• Skipping the resting period – Letting kebabs rest for a few minutes after grilling allows juices to redistribute, keeping them moist and flavorful.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

• Place cooled kebabs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

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 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe dish with a lid. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or oil. Cook kebabs for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs that may help clarify your cooking experience.

What can I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

You can serve these kebabs with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I know when my Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are done?

Use an instant-read thermometer; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I use other vegetables in my Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes according to your preferences.

How long should I marinate Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Marinating for at least 1 hour is recommended, but overnight is even better for deeper flavor.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile! You can customize them with your favorite vegetables or fruits. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these kebabs are sure to impress. Try them out today!