Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

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. These Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are not only amazingly delicious but also perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or any casual dinner. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and vibrant vegetables makes this dish a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade combines sweet and tangy elements that enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you can have these kebabs ready for grilling in no time.
• Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for outdoor gatherings, these kebabs are easy to cook on the grill and add a fun element to your meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the taste of sweet pineapple paired with tender chicken, making it a hit among family members.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the veggies or swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to suit your dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs effectively, gather your tools and set up your workspace. This ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the perfect cooking environment to achieve those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for mixing the marinade thoroughly so that every piece of chicken is well-coated.
• Gallon-size Resealable Bag: Allows for easy marinating of the chicken without mess. It’s also great for storage.
• Basting Brush: Helps apply marinade evenly during grilling to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

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!

Marinade Ingredients

• 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

Main Ingredients

• 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 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 one hour. Meanwhile, soak wooden skewer sticks in water for one hour.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

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

Step 4: Assemble the Kebabs

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

Step 5: Grill Your Kebabs

Brush grill grates with olive oil then place skewers on the grill. Grill for about five minutes; brush along tops with 1/4 cup of reserved marinade. Rotate skewers to cook evenly; brush remaining marinade on opposite side.

Step 6: Check Doneness

Allow kebabs to grill for about four more minutes or until chicken registers an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. These flavorful skewers not only please the palate but also make for a visually appealing dish. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the kebabs on a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. This absorbs the delicious marinade and adds substance to the dish.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair the kebabs with a fresh garden salad. A mix of greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes adds crunch and freshness that complements the sweet and tangy flavors.

In Tacos

• Create Hawaiian chicken tacos using soft tortillas. Add shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a drizzle of lime juice for a tropical twist.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces like teriyaki or spicy mayo. This adds an extra layer of flavor that guests can customize according to their tastes.

As Appetizers

• Cut the kebabs into smaller pieces and serve them as appetizers at parties. They’re easy to grab and enjoy while mingling.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

To achieve mouthwatering Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, attention to detail is key. Here are some tips to ensure your kebabs come out perfectly every time.

• Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 1 hour, preferably longer, to enhance flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pineapple, peppers, and onions will elevate the taste and texture of your kebabs.
• Soak Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for 1 hour before grilling to prevent them from burning.
• Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated properly for even cooking; this helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
• Rotate Skewers: Turn skewers halfway through cooking to ensure all sides get that lovely char without drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs can create a balanced meal. Consider these delightful options that will complement your main dish beautifully.

1. Coconut Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
2. Grilled Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers grilled alongside kebabs enhances flavors.
3. Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw with a tangy dressing provides a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
4. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with butter and sprinkled with salt makes for a classic summer side.
5. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with herbs, cucumber, and tomatoes offers protein while being refreshing.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized add natural sweetness that complements savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, it’s easy to make a few common errors that could affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can result in bland kebabs. Always allow at least an hour for the marinade to soak in.
• Using Wooden Skewers Without Soaking: Not soaking wooden skewers can lead them to catch fire on the grill. Soak them for at least 30 minutes before use.
• Crowding the Skewers: Overloading skewers makes it hard for everything to cook evenly. Ensure you leave some space between pieces for proper grilling.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Not preheating your grill can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat to the correct temperature before adding your kebabs.
• Ignoring Temperature Checks: Cooking without checking temperatures can lead to undercooked chicken. Use a thermometer and ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Forgetting to Reserve Marinade: If you don’t reserve some marinade before adding chicken, you’ll miss out on extra flavor when grilling. Always set aside a portion for basting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

• Wrap kebabs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Sauté over medium heat with a little olive oil until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs that may help you as you prepare this delicious dish.

How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

To make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, marinate chicken pieces and then thread them onto skewers with pineapple, bell peppers, and onions before grilling.

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to customize your kebabs with vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes based on your preferences.

What can I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

These kebabs pair wonderfully with rice, quinoa salad, or a light green salad for a complete meal.

Can I cook Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs in the oven?

Absolutely! You can bake these kebabs in an oven at 400°F (200°C) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for about 20-25 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs offer a delightful blend of flavors that make them perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Don’t hesitate—try this recipe today and enjoy these amazing kebabs!