There is nothing quite like the vibrant flavors and juicy tenderness of a well-made Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe to transport you straight to a tropical paradise. This dish masterfully balances the sweetness of fresh pineapple and brown sugar with the savoriness of soy sauce and garlic, creating a marinade that infuses every bite with mouthwatering goodness. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or craving a quick weeknight dinner with a tropical twist, these kebabs are a colorful, flavorful, and downright fun way to enjoy chicken like never before.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients just right is the foundation for an unforgettable Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe. Each component brings a vital role — from the tangy pineapple juice that brightens the marinade, to the colorful vegetables that add crunch and freshness, these ingredients are simple yet essential.
- Ketchup: Adds a tangy, slightly sweet base that balances the salty and sweet elements of the marinade.
- Dark brown sugar: Brings deep caramel notes and helps create a sticky glaze on the chicken.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Provides a rich umami flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Canned pineapple juice: Amplifies the tropical essence and tenderizes the meat.
- Olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist and helps the marinade coat evenly.
- Rice vinegar: Adds a gentle acidity that balances sweetness.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Offers aromatic sharpness for depth.
- Minced ginger: Brings bright, zesty warmth that livens the marinade.
- Sesame oil: A touch of nutty flavor that rounds out the marinade.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast: The lean, tender protein centerpiece, cut into uniform cubes for even grilling.
- Fresh cubed pineapple: Adds juicy bursts of sweetness and a tropical vibe.
- Green peppers (diced): Provide crisp texture and vibrant color contrast.
- Red onion (diced): Adds a subtly sweet sharpness and a beautiful pop of purple on the skewers.
How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together the Magic Marinade
This initial step brings all the key flavors together in one bowl. Combining ketchup, dark brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil creates a perfectly balanced marinade. Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance every ingredient. Whisk everything thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and glossy, ready to soak into the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Once your marinade is ready, place the cubed chicken breast into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate to allow the chicken to soak up all those tropical and savory notes for at least 25 minutes, up to a few hours if you can wait. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful the chicken will become.
Step 3: Assemble Your Kebabs
Now it’s time for the fun part — threading! Alternate pieces of marinated chicken, fresh pineapple cubes, green pepper chunks, and red onion on skewers. This colorful lineup provides a winning combination of textures and tastes with every bite.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Brush your grill with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, then place the kebabs over medium-high heat. Grill while occasionally brushing with reserved marinade. Cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking and develop a beautiful char. The chicken should be cooked through, tender inside with a caramelized, slightly smoky exterior.
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your presentation and flavor. Fresh chopped cilantro or green onions sprinkled over the kebabs add a fresh herbal pop that complements the tropical sweetness beautifully. A squeeze of lime over the top can brighten the entire dish, enhancing that island vibe.
Side Dishes
Since Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe bursts with bold flavors, pairing it with classic sides like steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice helps soak up every drop of delicious juices. For a crisp contrast, a simple cucumber salad or a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette works wonders to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation makes the feast even more fun! Try serving the kebabs on a large platter lined with banana leaves or tropical-patterned napkins to evoke that island feeling at your table. You can also skewer mini pineapple rings between chicken pieces for an extra visually striking and tasty twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and veggies together to preserve flavor and moisture, but be mindful that pineapple’s enzymes may slightly alter texture over time.
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, freeze cooked kebabs wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer bag. They keep well for up to 2 months but are best thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain juiciness.
Reheating
Reheat your kebabs gently over medium heat on the grill or in a hot oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may dry out the chicken and soften the veggies too much.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and a bit more forgiving on the grill, making them a delicious alternative. Just cut them into similar-sized cubes for even cooking.
Do I have to use fresh pineapple for this recipe?
Fresh pineapple is definitely preferred for the best texture and vibrant flavor, but canned pineapple chunks can work in a pinch. Just drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 25 minutes is great for some flavor infusion, but marinating for 2 to 4 hours yields even better tenderness and taste. Avoid marinating too long overnight as the acids can start to break down the meat too much.
Can I cook these kebabs indoors?
Yes! A grill pan or broiler works well if you don’t have an outdoor grill. Just be sure to turn them frequently and watch for flare-ups or burning.
What’s a good dipping sauce to serve alongside?
A simple sweet chili sauce or a tangy teriyaki glaze pairs beautifully to dip these kebabs for extra flavor excitement.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that delivers bold tropical flavors, a rainbow of colors, and juicy, tender textures, you simply must try this Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that turns everyday chicken into a festive, irresistible meal. Trust me, once you get a taste of these kebabs sizzling off the grill, you’ll want to make them a regular in your cooking rotation.
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Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
These Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs offer a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, featuring juicy marinated chicken breasts paired with fresh pineapple, colorful bell peppers, and red onions. Perfectly grilled and brushed with a tangy pineapple-soy marinade, they’re an ideal choice for a vibrant and easy summer meal.
Ingredients
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
- 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, to taste
Main Ingredients
- 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 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
- Olive oil, for brushing the grill
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together ketchup, dark brown sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, canned pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame oil. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, creating a flavorful and balanced marinade.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the cubed chicken breast into a resealable plastic bag, pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, seal the bag tightly, and refrigerate for at least 25 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
- Assemble Kebabs: Thread the marinated chicken cubes, fresh cubed pineapple, diced green peppers, and diced red onion alternately onto skewers, creating colorful and appetizing kebabs ready for grilling.
- Preheat and Prepare Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Grill Kebabs: Place the assembled skewers on the preheated grill, and while cooking, brush them periodically with the reserved marinade to enhance moisture and flavor. Grill the kebabs for approximately 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill once cooked through and let them rest briefly before serving. Enjoy these vibrant Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs as a perfect summer main dish!
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Marinate the chicken longer (up to 2 hours) for an even more intense flavor.
- Serve with steamed rice or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
