Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a delightful summer dish that combines tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and vibrant veggies. This recipe is perfect for barbecues, family gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home. The sweet and tangy marinade elevates the flavor, making these kebabs a hit with both kids and adults. Enjoy a taste of the tropics in your backyard!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these kebabs in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The sweet and tangy marinade infuses the chicken with incredible taste that pairs perfectly with grilled pineapple.
• Versatile Meal: Serve these Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs as an appetizer or main course, great for any occasion from casual cookouts to festive celebrations.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from fresh vegetables, this dish is not only delicious but nutritious too.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, gather the essential tools that will help you create this mouthwatering dish effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for threading your chicken and vegetables together for grilling.
• Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining the marinade ingredients evenly before adding the chicken.
• Grill: Provides the ideal cooking method to achieve those beautiful char marks while keeping your chicken juicy.

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 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 tablespoons of olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Stir in ¾ teaspoon of pepper and season with salt if desired.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chopped chicken in a gallon-size resealable bag. Reserve half a cup of the marinade in the refrigerator. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and refrigerate for one hour. Meanwhile, soak ten wooden skewer sticks in water for one hour to prevent burning on the grill.

Step 3: Prepare for Grilling

Preheat your grill over medium heat to about 400°F (200°C). Drizzle remaining olive oil over diced red onion, green peppers, and cubed pineapple. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Kebabs

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

Step 5: Grill the Kebabs

Brush grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place skewers on grill and cook for five minutes. Brush tops of kebabs with one-fourth cup of reserved marinade. Rotate skewers to opposite side and apply remaining one-fourth cup marinade on this side as well.

Step 6: Complete Cooking

Allow kebabs to grill for about four additional minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs!

With these easy instructions, you’ll have delicious Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs ready to impress at any gathering!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a casual dinner, these kebabs are sure to impress your guests. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Serve with Rice

• Pair the kebabs with steamed white or brown rice for a filling accompaniment that balances the flavors.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the pineapple in the kebabs.

Use in Tacos

• Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in soft tortillas with fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime for a flavorful taco night.

Create a Kebabs Platter

• Arrange the kebabs on a large platter with colorful veggies and fruits for an eye-catching presentation that’s great for sharing.

Offer Dipping Sauces

• Serve with extra sauce on the side, such as teriyaki or sweet chili, to enhance flavors and add variety to each bite.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Making Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs is easy, but there are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. Follow these guidelines for delicious results.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for several hours or overnight.
• Use Skewers Wisely: Soak wooden skewers in water before grilling to prevent burning.
• Cut Uniformly: Ensure chicken and vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Preheat Grill Properly: Make sure your grill is hot enough before adding kebabs for perfect sear marks.
• Check Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through (165°F/75°C).
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow kebabs to rest for a few minutes after grilling; this keeps them juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

To make your meal complete, consider serving some delicious side dishes alongside Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs. Here are some great options that pair well.

1. Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with coconut milk adds a tropical twist that complements the flavors of the kebabs.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Assorted seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and grilled bring color and nutrients to your plate.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides freshness.
4. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances the sweetness of the kebabs.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with herb butter makes a sweet addition that everyone loves.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with veggies and light dressing works as a refreshing side dish.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful contrast to the savory kebabs.
8. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad can help cleanse the palate between bites of savory chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Bold marinade usage: Not using enough marinade can lead to dry chicken. Ensure every piece is well-coated and marinated for at least an hour for maximum flavor.
• Bold skewer preparation: Failing to soak wooden skewers can result in burning. Soak skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from catching fire.
• Bold ingredient size: Cutting chicken or vegetables into uneven sizes can cause uneven cooking. Aim for uniform pieces around 1 1/4 inches for consistent grilling.
• Bold grill temperature: Grilling at too high a temperature may char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Maintain medium heat around 400°F (200°C) for optimal results.
• Bold leftover storage: Not storing leftovers properly can lead to spoilage. Refrigerate unused kebabs in an airtight container within two hours of cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

• Place cooled kebabs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kebabs on a baking sheet and cover with foil, reheating for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and cover. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs that might help you as you prepare this delicious dish!

How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

To make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, marinate chicken cubes in a mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, and spices before threading them onto skewers with pineapple and veggies.

Can I use different vegetables in Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your kebabs with your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and color.

What is the best way to grill Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Grill on medium heat around 400°F (200°C), turning occasionally and brushing with reserved marinade for extra taste. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

How do I store leftover Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with various vegetables or adjust the marinade ingredients based on your preferences. This recipe makes for a perfect summer dinner that everyone will love—give it a try!