Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a delightful way to enjoy summer grilling. These kebabs feature juicy chicken pieces marinated in a sweet and tangy mixture, paired with fresh pineapple and vibrant peppers. Perfect for barbecues, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests with its amazing flavors and colorful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: The marinade comes together quickly, making prep a breeze. Just mix ingredients and let the chicken soak!
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the vegetables or swap out the chicken for turkey or beef based on your preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a picnic, these kebabs are sure to be a hit.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, they make for a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Gallon-size resealable bag
• Wooden skewers

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that smoky flavor we all love in kebabs while allowing even cooking.
• Mixing Bowl: A must-have for combining marinade ingredients efficiently.
• Whisk: Ensures all marinade components blend seamlessly for optimal flavor.
• Gallon-size Resealable Bag: Ideal for marinating chicken without mess; it seals in flavor perfectly.

Ingredients

For these delicious Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, gather the following ingredients:

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 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: Make the Marinade

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

Season with salt to taste and add freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chopped chicken in a gallon-size resealable bag. Reserve half a cup of marinade in the refrigerator for later use. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, seal the bag tightly, and refrigerate for about one hour. Meanwhile, soak ten wooden skewers in water.

Step 3: Prepare Vegetables and Grill

Preheat your grill over medium heat to approximately 400°F (200°C). Drizzle remaining olive oil over diced red onion, bell pepper, and cubed pineapple. Toss them well to coat evenly. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

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

Step 5: Grill the Kebabs

Brush grill grates with olive oil before placing skewers on them. Grill for five minutes; then brush one side with reserved marinade. Flip skewers to grill the other side while brushing on remaining marinade as well. Continue grilling until chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C). Serve warm.

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for summer gatherings or family dinners. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve your kebabs on a bed of fluffy jasmine or brown rice. The rice absorbs the savory marinade, adding flavor to each bite.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair the kebabs with a crisp garden salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the chicken.

In Tacos

• Create tropical tacos by placing kebab pieces in soft tortillas and topping them with avocado, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing twist.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Add grilled zucchini, asparagus, or corn on the cob as sides. The smoky flavor of grilled veggies enhances the overall taste of the dish.

As Appetizers

• Cut kebab pieces into smaller bites and serve them as appetizers at your next gathering. They can be skewered with toothpicks for easy eating.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

For truly delicious Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, follow these simple tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours or overnight intensifies flavor and tenderness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pineapple and vegetables enhance taste. Opt for seasonal produce when possible.
• Pre-soak Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers in water prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Control Grill Temperature: Maintain medium heat on your grill to cook chicken thoroughly without burning it.
• Check Temperature: Always use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow cooked kebabs to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

To complement your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, consider these delicious side dishes that are sure to impress your guests.

1. Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice dish cooked with coconut milk adds a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with chicken.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots offers a crunchy contrast to the tender kebabs.
3. Grilled Corn Salad: Combining grilled corn with tomatoes, onions, and lime creates a refreshing salad that balances the sweetness of kebabs.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Cooked quinoa mixed with herbs and spices provides a nutritious option that enhances the meal’s flavor profile.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy add sweetness and texture that work well with the savory chicken.
6. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad featuring tropical fruits like mango and kiwi brings brightness and balance to your plate.
7. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra marinade left on your plate—an irresistible addition!
8. Baked Beans: A side of hearty baked beans adds depth and flavor, complementing the sweet notes of the Hawaiian chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs from good to great.

• Bold Marinade Time: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to bland kebabs. Ensure you marinate for at least 1 hour for maximum flavor.
• Bold Skewer Preparation: Using dry skewers can cause them to burn on the grill. Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before use.
• Bold Grill Temperature: Grilling at too high a temperature can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 400°F (200°C).
• Bold Ingredient Balance: Overloading skewers with too many ingredients may lead to uneven cooking. Alternate chicken pieces with veggies and pineapple evenly.
• Bold Checking Chicken Doneness: Not checking the internal temperature of chicken can result in undercooked meat. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

• Wrap each kebab tightly in plastic wrap and 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) and cover kebabs with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place kebabs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until warm, usually about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook kebabs for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs.

What are Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are flavorful skewers made with marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and sweet pineapple grilled to perfection.

Can I make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day before and assemble the kebabs just before grilling for optimal freshness.

What can I substitute for chicken in Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

You can use turkey or beef as alternatives if you prefer different proteins while keeping the same delicious marinade.

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

Use an instant-read thermometer; they are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are not only mouthwatering but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Try this delightful recipe at your next summer barbecue!