Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Chicken pieces are soaked in a delicious marinade to create Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs that are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or a festive gathering, these kebabs bring the taste of the tropics to your table. With juicy chicken, fresh pineapple, and vibrant peppers, they are not only stunning but also incredibly flavorful. The sweet and tangy marinade enhances every bite, making these kebabs a standout dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This recipe comes together quickly with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
• Bursting with flavor: The sweet and tangy marinade infuses the chicken and vegetables with delightful flavors that everyone will love.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy these kebabs on their own or serve them over rice or salad for a complete meal.
• Colorful presentation: The combination of colorful peppers and golden pineapple creates an eye-catching dish that impresses at any gathering.
• Family-friendly: Kids love skewers! These Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are sure to be a hit with young diners.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs successfully, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Mixing bowl
• Grill
• Basting brush
• Gallon-size resealable bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Perfect for threading chicken and vegetables together, ensuring even cooking on the grill.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients thoroughly before soaking the chicken.
• Grill: Provides high heat for searing the kebabs, locking in juices while creating beautiful grill marks.
• Basting brush: Ideal for applying marinade while grilling, which enhances flavor and moisture.

Ingredients

For these delicious Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, gather the following 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
• 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 remaining marinade over chicken. Seal bag and refrigerate for 1 hour (meanwhile soak 10 wooden skewer sticks in water for 1 hour).

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat a grill over medium heat to 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile, drizzle remaining 2 Tbsp 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 the Skewers

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

Step 5: Grill the Kebabs

Brush grill grates with olive oil then place skewers on grill. Grill for about 5 minutes then brush along tops with 1/4 cup of reserved marinade. Rotate kebabs to opposite side and brush remaining marinade on that side as well.

Step 6: Check Doneness & Serve

Allow to grill about 4 minutes longer or until chicken registers at least 165°F (75°C) in center using an instant-read thermometer. Serve warm and enjoy your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are not only delicious, but they also make a vibrant centerpiece for any summer gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal and impress your guests.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Tropical Fruit Salad – A mix of fresh fruits like mango, kiwi, and berries adds a refreshing contrast to the savory kebabs.
• Cucumber Salad – This light salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the sweet flavors of the chicken and pineapple.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a kick of flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the kebabs.
• Teriyaki Sauce – A classic choice that enhances the umami taste of the chicken.

Accompany with Rice or Grains

• Coconut Rice – The creaminess of coconut rice pairs perfectly with the tropical theme.
• Quinoa Salad – A nutritious option that can be flavored with lime and cilantro for added zest.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Herbs – Sprinkling cilantro or parsley on top adds color and freshness.
• Lime Wedges – Serve alongside for guests to squeeze over their kebabs for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

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

• Marinate Properly – Allowing your chicken to marinate for at least one hour enhances flavor; overnight is even better!
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh pineapple and colorful peppers not only taste better but also make your dish visually appealing.
• Soak Skewers – Soaking wooden skewers in water prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers – Leaving space between pieces allows even cooking and better caramelization.
• Check Doneness Carefully – Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) without overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots adds texture and freshness.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter complements the flavors of the kebabs beautifully.
3. Potato Salad – A creamy potato salad provides heartiness and balances out the dish.
4. Tomato Cucumber Salad – Light and refreshing, this salad is easy to prepare and pairs well with grilled foods.
5. Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread offers a comforting side that everyone loves.
6. Baked Beans – Sweet and savory baked beans add a hearty element to your meal, perfect for summer barbecues.
7. Fruit Kabobs – For a fun twist, serve fruit skewers as a light side that echoes the kebab theme.
8. Steamed Asparagus – Bright green asparagus drizzled with olive oil makes for an elegant side dish that’s quick to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, there are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of for the best results.

• Skipping the Marinade: Neglecting to marinate the chicken can lead to bland kebabs. Always allow enough time for the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least an hour.
• Using Dry Ingredients: Using dry or stale spices can ruin the flavor. Ensure your spices and seasonings are fresh and aromatic for maximum taste.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Failing to preheat can result in uneven cooking. Always heat your grill to the right temperature before grilling your kebabs.
• Overcrowding Skewers: Stuffing too much on a skewer can prevent even cooking. Thread ingredients loosely to ensure proper heat circulation.
• Ignoring Cooking Temperature: Cooking chicken below 165°F (75°C) is unsafe. Use a meat thermometer to check that your kebabs are fully cooked before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

• Place kebabs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• 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 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs.

Can I use other meats for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

You can definitely substitute chicken with shrimp or beef if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I ensure my Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs stay juicy?

Marinating your chicken is crucial. The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps retain moisture during grilling.

What vegetables pair well with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes work great with this recipe. Feel free to mix and match!

Can I make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs in the oven?

Yes! Simply place skewers on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven until cooked through, turning halfway.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. You can change up the veggies or try different marinades based on what you have at home. Enjoy these flavorful kebabs at your next gathering or family dinner!