Chicken is a favorite for grilling, and these Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a delightful way to enjoy it. They combine juicy chicken pieces marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce with fresh pineapple and colorful vegetables. Perfect for summer BBQs, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for delicious food, these kebabs are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant flavors and appealing presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The marinade blends sweet ketchup with tangy soy sauce, creating a unique taste that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up these kebabs in no time.
- Versatile Ingredients: Swap out vegetables or add your favorite ones to customize the kebabs to your liking.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a casual dinner, these kebabs are always a hit.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the veggies, they make a balanced meal.
Tools and Preparation
To make these Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, having the right tools will simplify the process. Gather the following essentials before starting.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Mixing bowl
- Grill (gas or charcoal)
- Basting brush
- Instant-read thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Skewers: These hold all your delicious ingredients together while they cook on the grill.
- Mixing Bowl: A good-sized bowl allows you to whisk together all the marinade ingredients easily.
- Grill: This is where the magic happens! A grill ensures even cooking and adds that wonderful smoky flavor.
- Instant-read Thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked perfectly without overdoing it.
Ingredients
The following ingredients come together to create flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs:
- 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)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
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
* Minced garlic
* Minced ginger
* Sesame oil
Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place chopped chicken in a gallon-size resealable bag. Reserve 1/2 cup of marinade in the refrigerator. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour. Meanwhile, soak wooden skewers in water for about one hour.
Step 3: Prepare Your Grill & Vegetables
Preheat your grill over medium heat until it reaches around 400°F (200°C). Drizzle remaining olive oil over diced red onion, green peppers, and cubed pineapple. Toss to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble Skewers
Thread red onion, green peppers, pineapple, and marinated chicken onto skewers until all ingredients are used up.
Step 5: Grill the Kebabs
Brush grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place skewers on the grill and cook for about five minutes. Brush tops of kebabs with reserved marinade halfway through cooking. Rotate skewers to grill on all sides.
Step 6: Check Doneness & Serve
Grill for an additional four minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs
Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways, making them perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
On a Bed of Rice
- Serve the kebabs over a bed of fluffy jasmine or coconut rice for a tropical twist.
With Fresh Salad
- Pair the kebabs with a light salad made from mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
In Tacos
- Use warm tortillas to wrap the grilled chicken and veggies along with avocado and salsa for a fun taco night.
With Dipping Sauces
- Offer a selection of dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce or teriyaki sauce for added flavor and fun.
As Appetizers
- Skewer smaller pieces and serve as bite-sized appetizers at parties, perfect for mingling.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs
Making perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs is simple with just a few tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your kebabs are flavorful and juicy every time.
- Marinate Well: Allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least one hour to absorb all the delicious flavors.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh pineapple and seasonal vegetables to enhance the taste of your kebabs.
- Pre-soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for an hour before grilling to prevent burning.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure even cooking by not overcrowding the skewers; leave space between each piece.
- Check Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the kebabs rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps retain their juices.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs
Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs can enhance your meal. Here’s a list of delicious sides that complement this dish perfectly.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until charred makes a perfect summertime side.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the sweet flavors of the kebabs.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and vegetables provides a healthy complement.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with savory kebabs.
- Coconut Macaroni Salad: This creamy dish brings tropical flavors that match well with the kebabs.
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is great for soaking up any leftover marinade or juices from the kebabs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, it’s easy to run into common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind.
- Over-marinating the chicken: Leaving chicken in the marinade for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for about 1 hour for optimal flavor and texture.
- Using wooden skewers without soaking: Skewers can burn on the grill if not soaked. Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- Not preheating the grill: Skipping the preheating step can result in uneven cooking. Make sure your grill is hot before adding the kebabs for perfect char and flavor.
- Crowding the skewers: Overloading skewers can prevent even cooking. Leave a little space between pieces of chicken and vegetables for even heat distribution.
- Ignoring temperature checks: Not checking the internal temperature of the chicken can lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat 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 up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs
- Wrap kebabs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kebabs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Arrange kebabs in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm kebabs in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?
Pair these kebabs with rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that balances flavors.
Can I make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and assemble the skewers just before grilling, making it convenient for meal prep.
How do I customize my Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?
Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu based on your preference.
Can I cook Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs in the oven?
Absolutely! You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if you don’t have access to a grill.
What makes Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs unique?
The combination of sweet pineapple, savory soy sauce, and fresh garlic creates a tropical flavor that sets these kebabs apart from traditional recipes.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize this recipe with different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, these kabobs will surely impress! Try them today and enjoy their vibrant flavors!
Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs
Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the tropics right to your backyard. These skewers feature succulent chunks of marinated chicken, juicy pineapple, and colorful bell peppers, all grilled to perfection. The marinade combines sweet ketchup, tangy soy sauce, and fresh garlic for an irresistible flavor that complements the smoky char from grilling. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, these kebabs are not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Serve them over rice, in tacos, or as appetizers at your next gathering for an impressive and delicious meal that everyone will love.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (4 kebabs) 1x
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)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, olive oil, garlic, ginger, and seasoning.
- Marinate chicken in half of the marinade for at least 1 hour in a resealable bag.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat and prepare vegetables by tossing with olive oil and seasoning.
- Assemble chicken and vegetables onto skewers.
- Grill kebabs for about 10 minutes, brushing with reserved marinade halfway through and ensuring chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kebab (138g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 72mg
Keywords: For added flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight. Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Use shrimp or tofu as protein alternatives for variety.
