If you’re craving a vibrant and mouthwatering dish that transports you straight to a tropical paradise, this Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe is your golden ticket. Bursting with juicy chicken, sweet pineapple chunks, and colorful veggies all coated in a tangy, savory marinade, these kebabs are an absolute feast for the senses. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard gathering or simply want to brighten up a weeknight dinner, this recipe brings together bold flavors and easy preparation, making it a forever favorite in my kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together beautifully to balance sweetness, savoriness, and that perfect touch of tang. Each element is simple yet essential, building layers of flavor and adding mouthwatering texture and color to your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe.
- 1/3 cup ketchup: adds a rich, tomato-based tang that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar: brings a deep caramel sweetness that enhances the pineapple’s tropical notes.
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce: for a salty, umami depth without overwhelming the other flavors.
- 1/4 cup canned pineapple juice: infuses an authentic island vibe and tenderizes the chicken.
- 4 Tbsp olive oil, divided: helps marry the marinade ingredients and ensures a beautifully grilled finish.
- 1 1/2 Tbsp rice vinegar: adds a light, zesty acidity to balance the sweetness.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (4 tsp): packs a punch of savory aromatic goodness.
- 1 Tbsp minced ginger: for a warm, slightly spicy note that lifts the entire dish.
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil: imparts a subtle nutty layer that adds complexity.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
- 1 3/4 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, chopped into 1 1/4-inch cubes: the protein star that soaks up all those delicious flavors.
- 3 cups heaping fresh cubed pineapple (about 3/4 of 3 lb pineapple): juicy, sweet, and irresistible.
- 1 1/2 large green peppers, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces: adds a crisp texture and fresh color.
- 1 large red onion, diced into 1 1/4-inch pieces: brings a mild sweetness and punchy bite that pairs perfectly with the chicken and pineapple.
How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together the Perfect Marinade
Start by combining the ketchup, dark brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, half the olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil in a mixing bowl. Whisk everything until smooth and then season with freshly ground pepper and salt to your liking. This marinade is what transforms simple chicken into something unforgettable.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your diced chicken breast into a gallon-size resealable bag. Pour most of the marinade over the chicken, but set aside half a cup for later brushing. Seal the bag tightly and place it in the refrigerator for an hour—no more, no less—so the flavors infuse without overpowering the meat. Don’t forget to soak your wooden skewers in water while the chicken marinates; this keeps them from burning on the grill.
Step 3: Prepare the Veggies and Pineapple
While the chicken chills, toss the chopped red onion, green peppers, and fresh pineapple with the remaining olive oil. Give the veggies a quick seasoning of salt and pepper, ensuring every piece is flavorful and ready to sizzle. This step gets your colorful components prepped for the ultimate flavor medley on the grill.
Step 4: Assemble Your Kebabs
It’s time to thread the flavors onto the skewers! Alternate chicken pieces with pineapple, red onion, and green pepper, building kebabs packed with color and texture. Use up all the chicken and veggies, arranging them so each bite combines juicy chicken with sweet and savory accompaniments.
Step 5: Grill to Glorious Perfection
Preheat your grill to a steady 400°F (200°C). Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking, then lay your kebabs down. After 5 minutes, brush the tops generously with a quarter cup of your reserved marinade, flip the skewers, and brush the other side with the remaining marinade. Grill an additional 4 minutes until the chicken hits 165°F (75°C) internally. Serve your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe warm, and get ready for a flavor celebration.
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh finishing touch, sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions on top. A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving adds a beautiful brightness that complements the sweetness and savory notes. Toasted sesame seeds can also add a lovely crunch and hint of nuttiness that tie everything together.
Side Dishes
These kebabs are spectacular alongside fluffy coconut rice or steamed jasmine rice, soaking up every delicious drop of juices. For something lighter, a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette makes an ideal companion. Grilled corn on the cob or a fresh mango salsa would further enhance the tropical vibe at your table.
Creative Ways to Present
You can get playful by serving kebabs over a bed of flavorful quinoa or even stuffing the grilled chicken and veggies into warm pita pockets for a handheld treat. For parties, arrange the skewers on a platter alongside small bowls of dipping sauces like a spicy sriracha mayo or cool cucumber yogurt dip to delight your guests even more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though they rarely last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days and still maintain vibrant flavor and satisfying juiciness.
Freezing
You can freeze fully cooked kebabs by wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They stay tasty for up to 2 months. For best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To revive your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe leftovers, gently reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also pop them in a skillet on medium heat, turning frequently to prevent drying out. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the chicken from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Absolutely! You can use a grill pan or even broil the kebabs in your oven. Just make sure to watch them closely as cooking times can vary, and turn the skewers often for even cooking and beautiful caramelization.
Can other types of meat be used in the Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with pork, shrimp, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian twist. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is perfectly cooked and tender.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
One hour is ideal for this recipe, providing enough time for the flavors to meld without the chicken becoming mushy. If you’re pressed for time, 30 minutes can still yield tasty results, but try not to go beyond two hours for texture reasons.
What can I use instead of wooden skewers?
Metal skewers are a great reusable option. If you only have wooden skewers, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent burning. Bamboo skewers work similarly.
Is this dish spicy?
This Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe leans more sweet and savory rather than spicy. However, you can easily add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha to the marinade or as a condiment for a little heat.
Final Thoughts
This Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe is a total winner that brings the sunshine and fun of the islands right to your plate. The harmony of sweet pineapple, tender chicken, and colorful veggies glazed with that irresistible marinade will quickly make these kebabs a staple in your cooking repertoire. Whether for a casual family dinner or a lively get-together, you absolutely have to try making these kebabs—you’ll be hooked from the very first bite!
Print
Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 to 10 kebabs
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
Delicious Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs featuring juicy marinated chicken breast, fresh pineapple, and colorful bell peppers grilled to perfection. This recipe combines a sweet and savory marinade with fresh ingredients for a perfect summer BBQ dish that is full of flavor and easy to prepare.
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 (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
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
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame oil. Stir in 3/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper and season with salt to taste. This marinade balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors to tenderize and flavor the chicken.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chopped chicken breast into a gallon-size resealable plastic bag. Pour most of the marinade over the chicken, reserving 1/2 cup in the refrigerator for basting later. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for 1 hour to let the chicken absorb the marinade. Meanwhile, soak 10 wooden skewers in water for at least 1 hour to prevent burning during grilling.
- Prepare the Vegetables and Pineapple: While the grill heats, drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the diced red onion, green pepper, and fresh pineapple cubes. Toss to coat evenly. Season the onion and peppers with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness and flavor.
- Assemble the Kebabs: Alternate threading pieces of marinated chicken, pineapple, green pepper, and red onion onto the soaked wooden skewers until all chicken pieces are used. This creates a colorful array of flavors and textures in each kebab.
- Preheat and Oil the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Grill the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 5 minutes. Then brush the tops of the kebabs with 1/4 cup of the reserved marinade to keep them moist and flavorful. Rotate the skewers to the opposite side, brushing the other side with the remaining marinade. Continue grilling for an additional 4 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) using an instant-read thermometer.
- Serve Warm: Once cooked through, remove the kebabs from the grill and serve immediately while warm. These Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs pair wonderfully with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers before grilling prevents them from burning.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked to 165°F (75°C).
- Adjust seasoning and marinade sweetness to taste if desired.
- For easier cleanup, line the grill tray with foil under the kebabs if grilling indoors.
- Can substitute chicken thighs for juicier kebabs, adjusting cooking time slightly.
- Marinating the chicken longer than 1 hour can make it mushy due to the acidic components in the marinade.
