If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and mouthwatering juiciness, look no further than this Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of sweet pineapple, savory soy, and tender chicken grilled to perfection, creating a colorful and irresistible meal that feels like a tropical vacation on a skewer. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or entertaining friends, these kebabs are sure to be the star of the show, combining a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe shine. Each component plays an essential role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and a beautiful presentation that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
- 1/3 cup ketchup: Adds tangy sweetness and depth to the marinade, helping to balance bold flavors.
- 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar: Brings a rich molasses flavor that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce: Provides savory umami without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 cup canned pineapple juice: Infuses the chicken with tropical sweetness and tenderizes the meat.
- 4 Tbsp olive oil, divided: Keeps the chicken juicy and helps the marinade cling, while also preventing sticking on the grill.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp rice vinegar: Adds a subtle acidity that brightens the overall flavor.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (4 tsp): Offers a fragrant, savory punch that complements the sweetness.
- 1 Tbsp minced ginger: Brings a warm, slightly spicy zing that’s quintessential in Hawaiian-inspired dishes.
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil: Introduces a delicate nuttiness that rounds out the marinade.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Enhances all the flavors with just the right seasoning.
- 1 3/4 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, chopped into 1 1/4-inch cubes: Tender protein that soaks up the marinade, perfect for grilling.
- 3 cups fresh cubed pineapple (about 3/4 of 3 lb pineapple): Adds juicy sweetness and a pleasing texture contrast.
- 1 1/2 large green peppers, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces: Provides crunch and freshness with a mild flavor.
- 1 large red onion, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces: Offers a slight sharpness and color to balance the sweetness.
How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together ketchup, dark brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame oil in a mixing bowl. This marinade is where all the magic begins—each ingredient blends to create a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes that will soak deliciously into your chicken. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to season everything perfectly.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chopped chicken breast into a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and give it a good shake to ensure every piece is coated. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or longer if you have time. This step is key because it allows the chicken to absorb all those incredible flavors, making each bite juicy and flavorful.
Step 3: Assemble the Kebabs
Thread the marinated chicken cubes, fresh pineapple, green peppers, and red onion onto skewers, alternating ingredients to create a colorful and balanced skewer. This not only looks fantastic but also ensures you get a bit of everything in each bite, from tender chicken to sweet pineapple and crisp veggies.
Step 4: Grill the Kebabs
Fire up your grill and brush the grates with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Place your kebabs on the grill and cook them for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally. Don’t forget to brush the kebabs with the reserved marinade several times while grilling to keep the chicken moist and infused with those wonderful flavors. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has gorgeous grill marks.
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro or green onions to add a pop of color and fresh herbal notes. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can also provide a pleasant crunch and boost the nutty flavors present in the marinade.
Side Dishes
These kebabs pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Think fluffy coconut rice that complements the tropical vibe or a crisp green salad for freshness. Grilled corn on the cob or a light cucumber salad with a hint of lime juice also make excellent, refreshing accompaniments that balance the rich flavors of the kebabs.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe on a wooden platter garnished with extra pineapple wedges and lime slices. You can also arrange the kebabs over a bed of jasmine rice, drizzle with a homemade teriyaki glaze, or even wrap them in warm tortillas with a dash of spicy mayo for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, simply transfer the cooked kebabs to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making for easy, flavorful meals later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the marinated chicken before grilling if you want to prepare ahead of time. Place the seasoned chicken in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before assembling the kebabs and grilling as usual to keep all those flavors intact.
Reheating
To reheat cooked kebabs, use a grill, oven, or even a stovetop pan to gently warm them up without drying out the chicken. Brushing with a little olive oil or leftover marinade while reheating helps maintain moisture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a bit more forgiving when grilling and tend to stay juicier. Just cut them into the same sized pieces and adjust cooking time as needed.
Do I have to soak wooden skewers before grilling?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes helps prevent them from burning on the grill, making your kebab experience hassle-free.
Can I make the marinade spicier?
Definitely! Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha to the marinade for some heat without overpowering the sweet and savory balance.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for a long time?
While 20 minutes is the minimum, letting the chicken marinate for several hours or overnight intensifies the flavor and tenderness, making your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe even more spectacular.
What are good alternatives to pineapple if I don’t like it?
Fresh mango or peaches make great substitutes that offer sweetness and a juicy texture to complement the grilled chicken and vegetables.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe is a joyful celebration of flavors that brings sunshine straight to your plate. Whether you’re a grilling newbie or a seasoned pro, these kebabs are simple, satisfying, and sure to become a go-to recipe for warm-weather gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. Don’t wait to fire up your grill and share this tropical delight with the people you love!
Print
Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 to 10 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
These Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, featuring tender chicken marinated in a tangy pineapple-soy sauce blend, then grilled alongside fresh pineapple, bell peppers, and red onion for a vibrant and delicious meal. Ideal for a quick and flavorful outdoor barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner.
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 (2 Tbsp for marinade, rest 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, to taste
Main Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Prepare the 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 your preference, ensuring the marinade is well combined and balanced in flavor.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the cubed chicken breast into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, or cover the dish, and refrigerate it for at least 25 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse the meat thoroughly.
- Assemble the Kebabs: After marinating, thread the chicken cubes, fresh pineapple chunks, diced green peppers, and diced red onion alternately onto skewers, ensuring even distribution for balanced grilling and consistent cooking.
- Grill the Kebabs: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the assembled skewers onto the grill. While cooking, baste the kebabs occasionally with the reserved marinade and turn them regularly to ensure even cooking. Grill the kebabs for approximately 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The vegetables should be tender and slightly charred.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling prevents them from burning.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness to avoid overcooking the chicken.
- Feel free to substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for juicier kebabs.
- If you prefer a spicier marinade, add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- These kebabs pair well with steamed rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Leftover kebabs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
