Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Introduction to Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

As a passionate home cook, I know the struggle of finding the perfect meal that delights everyone, especially on busy days. Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are my secret weapon for summer BBQs, effortlessly blending sweet and savory flavors that remind me of sun-soaked beaches. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy dinner with the family. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time. Trust me, once you sink your teeth into these kebabs, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Finding a dish that pleases everyone can feel like a culinary puzzle, but these Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are the solution! They’re quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The combination of juicy chicken and fresh pineapple makes each bite a tropical escape. Plus, you can customize them to suit picky eaters—tasty meals shouldn’t be a hassle!

Ingredients for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

To create these mouthwatering Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, you’ll need a variety of delicious ingredients that come together to create a taste sensation. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Marinade:
• Ketchup – Adds sweetness and tang.
• Dark brown sugar – For a rich, caramel-like depth.
• Low-sodium soy sauce – Brings in umami without overwhelming saltiness.
• Canned pineapple juice – Infuses fruity sweetness.
• Olive oil – Keeps everything moist and helps the marinade stick.
• Rice vinegar – Offers a slight acidity for balance.
• Garlic – Adds aromatic goodness.
• Ginger – Provides warmth and a hint of spice.
• Sesame oil – A touch of nuttiness to the flavor.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings for completing the flavor profile.
• Kebabs:
• Boneless, skinless chicken breast – The star protein, tender and juicy when grilled.
• Fresh cubed pineapple – Tan its delicious sweetness and texture contrast.
• Green peppers – Adds color and a mild crunch.
• Red onion – Provides flavor and a pop of color.

Feel free to customize your kebabs! If pineapple isn’t your thing, try adding zucchini or bell peppers in different colors. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of this article, ready for you to print out!

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Prepare the Marinade

Let’s kick things off by whipping up a delicious marinade. In a mixing bowl, combine ketchup, dark brown sugar, and soy sauce.

Add the canned pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.

Give it a good whisk until everything is well blended. Sprinkle in 3/4 teaspoon of pepper and season with salt if you wish.

Marinate the Chicken

Once your marinade is ready, grab a gallon-sized resealable bag. Place the chopped chicken in there.

Now, take half a cup of your freshly made marinade and set it aside in the fridge. Pour the rest of the marinade over the chicken, sealing the bag tightly.

Let it marinate in the fridge for at least one hour. Don’t forget to soak your wooden skewers in water for about the same time to prevent them from burning on the grill!

Prepare the Grill

While the chicken is soaking up all that tasty goodness, it’s time to prepare your grill. Preheat it to a medium heat setting, around 400°F (200°C).

Grab those chopped red onions, green peppers, and pineapple, and drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over them.

Give everything a gentle toss, then season to taste with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavors and make them delightful when grilled.

Assemble the Kebabs

Now comes the fun part! Thread the marinated chicken, red onion, green pepper, and juicy pineapple onto those soaked skewers. Alternate the pieces as you go to create colorful and enticing kebabs.

This method not only makes them look pretty but also ensures every bite is a juicy, flavorful delight.

Grill the Kebabs

Your grill should be nice and hot by now. Brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking, then place your assembled kebabs on the grill.

Grill them for about 5 minutes. After that, brush the tops with 1/4 cup of your reserved marinade.

Carefully rotate them to the other side and repeat the process with the remaining marinade. Let the kebabs grill for about 4 more minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.

Once they’re beautifully grilled, serve them warm and enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs!

Tips for Success

• Marinate the chicken for at least one hour for maximum flavor.
• Soak skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
• Feel free to swap in veggies your family loves; flexibility is key!
• Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken is perfectly cooked.
• Don’t rush the grilling process; achieving that caramelized exterior is worth it!

Equipment Needed

• Grill – A gas or charcoal grill works great for that smoky flavor.
• Wooden skewers – You can use metal skewers if you prefer.
• Mixing bowl – For preparing the marinade; any large bowl will do.
• Whisk – An essential tool for blending those marinade ingredients.
• Instant-read thermometer – Ensures perfectly cooked chicken; a must-have for grilling!

Variations

• For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms for a hearty twist.
• Add a hint of spice by tossing in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Use grilled shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist that packs a flavorful punch.
• Incorporate different vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for a colorful mix.
• Try a teriyaki marinade instead of the Hawaiian-inspired one for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs with coconut rice for a tropical touch.
• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly.
• Serve with fruity drinks like piña coladas or tropical punches to enhance the theme.
• Consider adding colorful dipping sauces for extra flavor, like sweet chili or garlic aioli.

FAQs about Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Can I use other proteins for these kebabs?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, firm tofu, or even beef if you’re craving a different flavor. Each protein brings its unique twist to the Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs!

How long can I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate your chicken for at least one hour. If you need a deeper flavor, feel free to marinate it overnight in the fridge. Just remember to cover it well!

What sides pair well with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

There are so many delicious options! Coconut rice, a light salad, or grilled veggies are fantastic companions. You can even serve them alongside a tropical fruit salad!

Can I make these kebabs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and veggies in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and grill them right before your meal for the best experience!

How can I ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly?

The best way to ensure juicy chicken is to use an instant-read thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken every time!

Final Thoughts

As a devoted home cook, sharing my love for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs brings me joy. Each bite is a reminder of summer adventures, laughter, and cherished moments with loved ones. The blend of sweet pineapple and savory chicken creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend more time with family and less time in the kitchen. Whether it’s for a backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner, these kebabs are bound to become a favorite. Enjoy the delightful experience of creating and sharing this dish!

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

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• Author: Emily recipes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Delicious grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, perfect for a summer BBQ.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 (4 tsp)
• 1 Tbsp minced ginger
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 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

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Instructions

1. 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.
2. Place chicken in a gallon size resealable bag. Reserve 1/2 cup of the marinade in the refrigerator then pour remaining marinade over chicken. Seal bag and refrigerate for 1 hour (meanwhile soak 10 wooden skewer sticks in water for 1 hour).
3. Preheat a grill over medium heat to 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile, drizzle remaining 2 Tbsp olive oil over red onion, bell pepper and pineapple and toss. Season red onion and bell pepper with salt and pepper, then thread red onion, bell pepper, pineapple and chicken onto skewers until all of the chicken has been used.
4. Brush grill grates with olive oil then place skewers on the grill. Grill for 5 minutes then brush along tops with 1/4 cup of remaining marinade. Rotate to the opposite side and brush remaining 1/4 cup of marinade on opposite side.
5. Allow to grill about 4 minutes longer, or until chicken registers 165°F (75°C) in the center on an instant read thermometer. Serve warm.

Notes

• Soak skewers in water to prevent burning on the grill.
• Feel free to customize vegetables based on preferences.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Grill
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Hawaiian Chicken, Kebabs, Grilled Chicken, BBQ Chicken, Hawaiian Recipe