If you are craving a burst of vibrant flavors and a little tropical getaway on your plate, this Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, marinated chicken pieces perfectly paired with sweet pineapple and colorful bell peppers come together in a delicious harmony that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. This recipe captures the sunny spirit of the islands and is so easy to make that it quickly becomes a favorite go-to for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a lively backyard barbecue with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe plays a vital role, creating a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors with beautiful textures and a pop of color. Using fresh, simple items ensures a dish that is fresh-tasting and full of personality.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed: Versatile and lean protein that soaks up the marinade beautifully for juicy results.
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, cubed: Adds natural sweetness and a tropical flair that complements the chicken.
- 1 red bell pepper, cubed: Provides vibrant color and crunch to contrast the tender chicken.
- 1 green bell pepper, cubed: Adds a fresh, slightly bitter note to round out the flavors.
- 1 red onion, cubed: Brings a subtle sharpness and slight sweetness after grilling.
- For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds savory depth and umami that enhances all the other ingredients.
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice: Intensifies the pineapple flavor and helps tenderize the chicken.
- 2 tbsp honey: Balances the savory with a gentle caramelized sweetness when grilled.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist and helps the marinade adhere perfectly.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a fragrant punch that pairs well with ginger.
- 1 tsp ginger, grated: Adds warmth and zestiness characteristic of tropical flavors.
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional): A little heat to awaken the palate without overpowering.
- Skewers (wooden or metal): Essential for assembling and grilling your colorful ingredients.
How to Make Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes in a bowl. This flavorful marinade is where all the magic begins, infusing every bite of chicken with a wonderful combination of sweetness, acidity, and spice that truly captures the essence of this Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add your cubed chicken breast to the marinade and ensure every piece is generously coated. For the best results, cover the bowl and let the chicken rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—though if you have the time, letting it marinate for up to two hours lets those island flavors sink in deeply, making the chicken irresistibly tasty.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to thread the ingredients onto your skewers. Alternate chicken pieces with pineapple chunks, red and green bell peppers, and red onion cubes to create a vibrant and visually appealing presentation. This assembly not only entices the eyes but also ensures each bite delivers a perfect mix of sweet, savory, and crisp.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning them occasionally so they brown evenly and the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. Grilling caramelizes the honey and pineapple while giving the chicken those lovely smoky char marks that elevate this Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe to the next level.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Once cooked, serve your skewers immediately to enjoy the full contrast of juicy, hot chicken with sweet, slightly charred fruits and vegetables. The combination is simply mouthwatering and will have everyone asking for seconds.
How to Serve Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or green onions over the skewers. A wedge of lime on the side adds a zesty brightness that complements the tropical flavors superbly. You can also drizzle a little extra honey or a splash of soy sauce for some added flavor depth.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with fluffy jasmine rice, coconut rice, or even a refreshing quinoa salad. For a true island vibe, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or grilled corn on the cob. These sides help round out the meal with complementary textures and tastes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the skewers over a bed of mixed greens or chopped romaine for an easy, colorful platter. You could also serve the chicken and veggies de-skewered on a platter, allowing guests to mix and match or build their own wraps with fresh tortillas or lettuce leaves. Presentation that encourages interaction always makes the meal feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and vegetables together to maintain that signature flavor profile, but consider storing garnishes separately to keep them fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked, marinated chicken pieces separately before assembling the skewers by threading fresh pineapple and veggies on the day of cooking. Freeze marinade-covered chicken in a sealed container or bag for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before grilling.
Reheating
To warm leftovers without drying out the chicken, gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat or use an oven set to 350°F, covering with foil to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the chicken and vegetables rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken breast works great for its mild flavor and tenderness, you could substitute with thigh meat for juicier results or even try pork or shrimp for a different yet equally delicious tropical twist.
Do I need to soak wooden skewers before grilling?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent them from burning on the hot grill, keeping your presentation safe and intact.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I skip the chili flakes?
The chili flakes add just a mild warmth to balance the sweetness, but they are totally optional. Feel free to omit them if you prefer a milder flavor or increase the amount if you like some extra heat.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook this indoors?
You can definitely cook these skewers indoors using a grill pan or broiler. Just make sure to turn the skewers often for even cooking and to achieve a nice char on the chicken and veggies.
Can I prepare this recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! This Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe scales up really well. Just multiply the ingredients and consider using multiple grills or baking trays to cook everything efficiently.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that brings joy, color, and flavor in one bite, you really must try this Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe. It’s a delightful adventure in easy cooking that will brighten up your table and your mood. Trust me, once you make these skewers, they just might become your new favorite for any day you want a little slice of island magic.
Print
Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers combine juicy marinated chicken breast with fresh pineapple and colorful bell peppers, grilled to perfection for a flavorful and vibrant dish perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Ingredients
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, cubed
- 1 green bell pepper, cubed
- 1 red onion, cubed
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes until fully combined and smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken breast to the marinade, making sure all pieces are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for best flavor absorption.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken, fresh pineapple, red and green bell peppers, and red onion onto the skewers, alternating ingredients to create a visually appealing and colorful presentation.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is no longer pink inside.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and serve hot. They pair wonderfully with steamed rice, fresh salad, or a dipping sauce of your choice.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling prevents them from burning.
- Adjust chili flakes according to your preference for spice.
- For an extra smoky flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika to the marinade.
- Chicken can be substituted with shrimp or tofu for a variation.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
