Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

This Hawaiian Chicken Skewers recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to summer barbecues. The combination of juicy chicken marinated in a tangy soy and orange marmalade sauce makes these skewers not only delicious but also a hit with both kids and adults. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare and how quickly they cook on the grill, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or fun weekend get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Marinate your chicken in just minutes, letting it soak up flavor while you go about your day.
• Flavor Explosion: The unique marinade combines soy sauce and orange marmalade for a sweet and savory taste that stands out.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your skewers with your favorite vegetables or fruits to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the sweet pineapple and tender chicken, making dinner an enjoyable experience for everyone.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, these skewers make for a nutritious meal choice.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools to make your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers effortlessly. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Gallon freezer bag
• Mixing bowl
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The grill provides high heat necessary for achieving that perfect char on your skewers while infusing them with smoky flavor.
• Gallon freezer bag: Ideal for marinating, allowing the chicken to absorb all the delightful flavors without mess.
• Basting brush: Helps evenly apply oil on the grill, preventing sticking and ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

To create these flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Marinade

• 3 skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons orange marmalade
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Skewers

• 12 skewers, (if wooden, soak in water for 20 minutes)
• 1 purple onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a gallon freezer bag, add the chunks of chicken breasts.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth, orange marmalade, soy sauce, ground ginger, and garlic powder until well combined.
3. Pour this marinade into the freezer bag with the chicken. Seal tightly and shake gently to coat all pieces.
4. Marinate in the fridge for 2-4 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator.
3. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with chunks of purple onion, red bell pepper, and pineapple. If you’re using wooden skewers that were soaked in water earlier, ensure they are ready before grilling.

Step 3: Grill the Skewers

1. Lightly brush your grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Place your skewers on the grill; cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through.
3. Once done, remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving.

These Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are sure to impress at any meal! Enjoy them with rice or noodles if desired for a complete dish.

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Serving Hawaiian Chicken Skewers is a delightful experience that brings together vibrant flavors and colorful presentation. These skewers can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing their tropical appeal and making them perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Pair with Rice

• White Rice: A simple base that complements the savory marinade of the skewers.
• Coconut Rice: Adds a sweet, tropical twist to your meal, pairing beautifully with the chicken’s flavors.

Accompany with Noodles

• Soba Noodles: Nutty and chewy, soba noodles provide a hearty contrast to the skewers.
• Rice Noodles: Light and soft, rice noodles absorb the marinade’s flavor and add a lovely texture.

Fresh Salads

• Tropical Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of mango, kiwi, and berries that enhances the tropical theme.
• Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers with a light vinaigrette add a refreshing crunch.

Dipping Sauces

• Peanut Sauce: Creamy and rich, this sauce adds depth and nuttiness to each bite.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: Provides a spicy-sweet kick that pairs well with the chicken.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

To achieve perfectly grilled Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, attention to detail in preparation and cooking is key. Here are some helpful tips for success:

• Marinate Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours helps infuse flavor deeply into the meat.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensuring your grill is hot before adding skewers helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.
• Use Soaked Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Giving each piece space on the skewer allows even cooking and makes turning easier.
• Check Doneness Carefully: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
• Garnish Generously: Sprinkling fresh cilantro before serving adds color and brightness to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Hawaiian Chicken Skewers pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that enhance their tropical flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus lightly charred on the grill provide a smoky flavor that complements the skewers.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots in a tangy dressing balances the sweetness of the chicken.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon adds protein while keeping things fresh.
4. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes offer a sweet contrast that pairs nicely with the savory flavors of chicken.
5. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread can be a delightful addition for those wanting something more filling alongside their meal.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter or lime makes for a deliciously sweet side that’s easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes that can affect your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers recipe.

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating for just a short time can lead to less flavorful chicken. Aim for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight for maximum taste.
• Using dry chicken: If the chicken is overcooked, it can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).
• Skipping the soaking step for wooden skewers: If you don’t soak wooden skewers, they may burn on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before using.
• Ignoring skewer arrangement: Placing ingredients too tightly together can prevent even cooking. Leave a little space between each piece on the skewer.
• Not using enough marinade: Ensure that there’s enough marinade to coat all pieces of chicken evenly. This will enhance flavor and moisture throughout the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the skewers fresh.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
• • Containers: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag or container.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat skewers for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, checking frequently until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Hawaiian Chicken Skewers.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can easily substitute turkey or beef if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What sides pair well with Hawaiian Chicken Skewers?

Consider serving them with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. They also go great with grilled vegetables!

How do I know when my Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The chicken should no longer be pink inside.

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Just grill them when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile! Feel free to customize them with different vegetables or marinades based on your preferences. Try this fun recipe for your next family gathering or casual dinner; it’s sure to impress!