Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any occasion. These kebabs combine tender chicken, juicy pineapple, and vibrant vegetables, all marinated in a delicious sauce. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or seeking a quick weeknight dinner, these kebabs are sure to impress. Their unique taste and colorful presentation make them a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With a simple marinade and straightforward assembly, these kebabs come together quickly, letting you spend more time enjoying your meal.
• Bursting with flavor: The combination of ketchup, brown sugar, and pineapple juice creates a sweet and tangy taste that enhances the chicken perfectly.
• Versatile for different occasions: Ideal for summer cookouts or family dinners, these Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs can be served as an appetizer or main course.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from fresh veggies and pineapple, this recipe is both delicious and nutritious.
• Fun for everyone: Skewering the ingredients is a fun activity for kids and adults alike, making it a great cooking project for families.

Tools and Preparation

To make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help ensure your kebabs turn out perfectly grilled every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the high heat needed to achieve those beautiful grill marks while cooking the kebabs evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining the marinade ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures the marinade is well-blended for maximum flavor infusion into the chicken.
• Gallon-sized resealable bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken thoroughly without taking up too much space in your refrigerator.

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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 (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

Follow these simple steps to create your own Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs that will tantalize your taste buds.

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-sized resealable bag. Reserve 1/2 cup of the marinade in the refrigerator then pour remaining marinade over chicken. Seal bag tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour. Meanwhile, soak 10 wooden skewers in water for one hour to prevent burning on the grill.

Step 3: Prepare Your Grill

Preheat your grill over medium heat to about 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, drizzle remaining olive oil over red onion, bell pepper, and pineapple; toss to coat. Season red onion and bell pepper with salt and pepper as desired.

Step 4: Assemble the Kebabs

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

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Brush grill grates with olive oil before placing your assembled skewers on it. Grill them for about five minutes before brushing one side with 1/4 cup of reserved marinade. Rotate skewers to cook evenly on both sides while applying remaining marinade. Grill approximately four minutes longer or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Serve warm!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dining.

With Fresh Salads

• Tropical Fruit Salad – Combine fresh fruits like mango, kiwi, and berries for a refreshing side.
• Cabbage Slaw – A crunchy slaw with a tangy dressing complements the sweetness of the kebabs beautifully.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Coconut Rice – This fragrant rice adds a tropical twist and balances the flavors of the kebabs.
• Lemon Quinoa – Light and zesty quinoa makes for a healthy base that pairs well with the kebabs.

In Sandwiches or Wraps

• Kebab Wraps – Use flatbreads or tortillas to wrap kebabs, adding lettuce and sauce for extra flavor.
• Open-Faced Sandwiches – Serve kebabs on toasted bread topped with avocado for a hearty bite.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce – A spicy-sweet dip that enhances the flavor of the chicken and pineapple.
• Peanut Sauce – Creamy and nutty, this sauce adds richness to each bite.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh chicken and ripe fruits for the best flavor and texture.
• Marinate Longer – For enhanced taste, marinate your chicken for at least two hours or overnight if possible.
• Soak Skewers – Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Preheat Your Grill – Make sure your grill is hot enough to create nice grill marks and seal in juices.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers – Leave some space between pieces to ensure even cooking and a good char.
• Check Temperature – Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm that chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Pairing your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs with delicious sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent side dish ideas.

1. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers drizzled with olive oil enhance the meal’s freshness.
2. Coleslaw – A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw provides crunch and balances the sweetness of the kebabs.
3. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with herb butter adds a sweet, smoky flavor that’s hard to resist.
4. Garlic Bread – Toasted bread with garlic butter offers a savory complement to the sweet kebabs.
5. Potato Salad – A light potato salad mixed with herbs adds texture and heartiness to your plate.
6. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf cooked with broth provides a comforting base alongside your kebabs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating chicken is an art, and avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs.

• Bold Marinade Mistake: Not allowing enough time for the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least one hour for optimal taste.
• Bold Skewering Error: Overcrowding the skewers with ingredients may result in uneven cooking. Alternate chicken and veggies properly for even grilling.
• Bold Grill Temperature Issue: Grilling at too high a temperature can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Maintain a medium heat for even cooking.
• Bold Neglecting Basting: Forgetting to baste the kebabs with marinade can dry them out. Regularly brush them during grilling for added moisture and flavor.
• Bold Underestimating Cooking Time: Not checking the internal temperature can lead to undercooked chicken. Always use a meat thermometer for safety.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover 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 before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake on a baking sheet until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place kebabs on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short bursts until warmed, about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil; cook kebabs until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs.

Can I use other meats for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or turkey based on your preference.

How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs vegetarian?

Replace chicken with cubed firm tofu or additional vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.

What is the best way to serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

They pair wonderfully with rice or a fresh salad, making them versatile for any meal.

How spicy are Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

This recipe is not spicy; however, you can add cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for extra heat if desired.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different vegetables or proteins according to your preference. Try this recipe at your next barbecue or family dinner!