Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them the perfect dish for any occasion. These kebabs feature tender chicken marinated in a tasty sauce, complemented by fresh pineapple and vibrant vegetables. Ideal for summer cookouts, family dinners, or casual gatherings, they bring a touch of the tropics to your table. Everyone will love the juicy bites that burst with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With a simple marinade and minimal prep time, you can have these Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs ready in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates an unforgettable taste that’s sure to impress.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your kebabs with different vegetables or add your favorite spices for a personal touch.
• Perfect for Gatherings: These kebabs are not only crowd-pleasers but also easy to serve at parties or barbecues.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh produce, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Gallon-size resealable bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: These hold all the ingredients together, allowing for even cooking and easy handling on the grill.
• Grill: A good grill provides the high heat necessary to achieve that perfect char while enhancing flavor through caramelization.
• Mixing Bowl: An essential tool for combining ingredients uniformly before marinating your chicken.

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!

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 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 the remaining marinade over chicken. Seal bag and refrigerate for 1 hour. Meanwhile, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 10 minutes.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat a grill over medium heat to 400°F (200°C). Drizzle remaining olive oil over red onion, bell pepper, and pineapple; toss to coat. Season red onion and bell pepper with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Kebabs

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

Step 5: Grill the Kebabs

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

Step 6: Check Doneness

Allow kebabs 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.

Enjoy your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs as a delightful main course that brings sunshine to your dinner table!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a delightful blend of flavors that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, these kebabs will impress everyone at the table. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the kebabs over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. This pairing absorbs the delicious marinade and adds texture.

In Tacos

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

On Salad

• Place the kebabs on a fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for added flavor and crunch.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a creamy garlic sauce. These add an extra layer of taste to each bite.

As Appetizers

• Cut the chicken and pineapple into smaller pieces before grilling. Serve them on toothpicks as bite-sized appetizers at parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Creating perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs is easy when you follow some simple tips. These suggestions will help you achieve juicy, flavorful kebabs every time.

• Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if possible.

• Soak Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pineapple and colorful vegetables not only taste better but also enhance the dish’s visual appeal.

• Avoid Overcrowding: When threading ingredients onto skewers, leave some space between each piece to ensure even cooking.

• Check Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs can elevate your meal even further. Here are some fantastic options that complement their tropical flavors perfectly.

1. Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with coconut milk adds a rich flavor that enhances the sweetness of the kebabs.

2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus lightly seasoned and grilled make for colorful additions to your plate.

3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the chicken kebabs.

4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter and sprinkled with salt brings a sweet touch that pairs beautifully with the tangy flavors of the kebabs.

5. Pineapple Salsa: A refreshing salsa made from diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice adds brightness and complements the main dish perfectly.

6. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad offers comfort alongside your kebabs while adding another layer of flavor to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken enough can lead to bland kebabs. Always allow at least an hour for the flavors to soak in.
• Using wooden skewers without soaking: If you don’t soak your wooden skewers, they can burn on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too many ingredients onto one skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Leave some space between each piece for better heat circulation.
• Ignoring temperature checks: Failing to check if the chicken is cooked through can be risky. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Rushing the grilling process: Cooking at too high a temperature can char the outside while leaving the inside raw. Grill over medium heat and monitor closely.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs in an airtight container.
• They will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

• Wrap kebabs tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat kebabs for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until warm, about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs.

How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs more flavorful?

You can enhance flavor by marinating overnight instead of just one hour. This allows spices and marinades to penetrate deeper into the chicken.

Can I use other meats for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Yes! You can swap chicken for shrimp or pork. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure even doneness.

Are Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These kebabs are great for meal prep as they store well and reheat easily, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

What should I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Pair these delightful kebabs with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the marinade ingredients to suit your taste. Make this dish your own, and enjoy a delightful summertime dinner!