If you’re craving a vibrant dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, then you’re in for a treat with this Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe. The juicy chunks of chicken pair beautifully with the fresh pineapple and colorful vegetables, all glazed with a luscious marinade that brings out the tropical charm in every bite. It’s a fantastic way to bring a little island-inspired magic to your grill, impressing family and friends with every skewer you serve.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe just right is all about the harmony of simple, fresh ingredients. Each element is essential, bringing a burst of color, texture, and flavor that makes the final dish sing. From the tangy pineapple juice to the savory soy sauce, every ingredient plays a starring role.
- Ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness to the marinade that helps balance the salty and spicy flavors.
- Dark brown sugar: Gives the marinade a deep, molasses-like sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
- Low-sodium soy sauce: Infuses the chicken with umami and saltiness without overpowering other flavors.
- Canned pineapple juice: Brings a bright tropical acidity that tenderizes the chicken and complements the pineapple chunks.
- Olive oil: Keeps the chicken juicy and helps everything cook evenly on the grill; plus it’s great for brushing the grill grates.
- Rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang and light acidity to balance the sweetness.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Enhance the marinade with a punch of savory aroma and flavor.
- Fresh minced ginger: Lends a zesty warmth and a refreshing bite that works beautifully with the tropical notes.
- Sesame oil: Just a hint introduces a nutty undertone that deepens the marinade’s complexity.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together perfectly.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into 1 1/4-inch cubes for ideal grilling and quick cooking.
- Fresh cubed pineapple: The star tropical fruit that adds juicy sweetness and bright color.
- Green bell peppers: Provide crisp texture and vibrant green pops on the kebabs.
- Red onion: Adds a mild sweetness and lovely color contrast.
How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Step 1: Whisk the Marinade
Start by mixing the ketchup, dark brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, half of the olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil in a bowl. Add freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste. This marinade is the heart of your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe, bursting with flavors that’ll soak deep into the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Pop the chicken cubes into a resealable bag and pour the marinade over, reserving half a cup to use later. Seal the bag and refrigerate for about an hour. This step is where the chicken gets tender and flavorful — don’t skip the hour! While you wait, soak your wooden skewers in water to prevent burning on the grill.
Step 3: Prep the Vegetables and Pineapple
Drizzle the remaining olive oil on your diced red onion, green peppers, and pineapple chunks, then toss until coated. Season the onion and peppers with salt and pepper, bringing out their natural sweetness when grilled. These pieces will add beautiful color and crunch to your Kebabs.
Step 4: Assemble the Kebabs
Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple, red onion, and green bell peppers evenly onto the soaked skewers. This is where you get to be creative with the order – the mix of colors and textures makes these kebabs as pretty as they are tasty!
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Heat your grill to about 400°F (200°C) and brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the kebabs on the grill, cooking the first side for about 5 minutes. Brush the tops generously with some of the reserved marinade, then flip and repeat with the remaining marinade on the other side. Grill for an additional 4 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Serve warm and enjoy the tropical feast you’ve created!
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Garnishes
Refresh your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe with fresh garnishes such as chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors even more. Adding toasted sesame seeds also gives a lovely crunch and a nutty flair.
Side Dishes
Pair these kebabs with fluffy coconut rice or a light, crisp salad to balance the savory-sweet marinade. A chilled, tangy coleslaw or grilled corn on the cob makes for a festive, summery accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the kebabs on a wooden platter garnished with pineapple leaves or vibrant edible flowers for that extra island vibe. For a casual gathering, lay them out family-style with bowls of dipping sauce made from reserved marinade reduced on the stove for extra flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days and make for an amazing next-day lunch or quick dinner.
Freezing
If you want to save some kebabs for later, freeze uncooked marinated chicken cubes arranged separately on a tray first, then transfer to freezer bags. Kebabs can be assembled and frozen or you can freeze cooked kebabs tightly wrapped. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated kebabs in the oven or on the grill to keep that smoky grilled flavor. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve texture and juiciness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs remain juicy and tender during grilling and add a slightly richer flavor that works wonderfully in this Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe.
How long should I soak the wooden skewers?
Soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes, but an hour is even better to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Is it necessary to reserve some marinade?
Yes, reserving part of the marinade lets you baste the kebabs while grilling, building layers of flavor and keeping the chicken moist.
Can I make this recipe indoors without a grill?
Definitely! Use a grill pan or broil the kebabs in your oven. Just keep an eye on them to ensure even cooking and get that beautiful char.
What can I substitute for canned pineapple juice?
Fresh pineapple juice or even orange juice can work well as a substitute, bringing similar acidity and sweetness to the marinade.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about skewers glazed in a sweet and tangy tropical marinade, and this Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe delivers that joy in every bite. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or an outdoor party, these kebabs bring flavor, color, and smiles around the table. Give this recipe a try, and soon it’ll become one of your favorite go-to meals for any occasion!
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Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
These Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring juicy marinated chicken breast, fresh pineapple, and colorful bell peppers grilled to perfection. The marinade combines tangy ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, and aromatic ginger and garlic, making each bite flavorful and delicious. Ideal for a summer cookout or any gathering, these skewers are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.
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
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (from the 4 Tbsp total)
- 1 1/2 Tbsp rice vinegar
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (about 4 tsp)
- 1 Tbsp minced ginger
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
Chicken and Vegetables
- 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 bell peppers, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces
- 1 large red onion, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (remaining from the total 4 Tbsp), plus more for brushing grill
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, canned pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame oil. Stir in 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper and season with salt according to taste.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chopped chicken breast pieces into a gallon-sized resealable bag. Reserve 1/2 cup of the prepared marinade in the refrigerator for later use. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken in the bag, seal tightly, and refrigerate for 1 hour. Meanwhile, soak 10 wooden skewers in water for at least 1 hour to prevent burning on the grill.
- Prepare Vegetables and Pineapple: Preheat your grill to medium heat or about 400°F (200°C). Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the diced red onion, green bell peppers, and cubed pineapple. Toss well to coat evenly. Season the onion and peppers with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Kebabs: Thread the marinated chicken pieces, red onion, bell pepper, and pineapple alternately onto the soaked wooden skewers until all ingredients are used.
- Grill the Kebabs: Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers onto the grill and cook for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, brush the tops of the kebabs with 1/4 cup of the reserved marinade. Rotate the skewers to the opposite side and brush with the remaining 1/4 cup of marinade.
- Finish Grilling: Continue grilling the kebabs for about 4 more minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) as measured with an instant-read thermometer.
- Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and serve warm for a flavorful and juicy meal.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least one hour prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts for juicier kebabs, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- These kebabs can also be cooked on a grill pan over the stovetop if an outdoor grill is unavailable.
- For spicier flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
