Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

These Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are a delightful fusion of flavors, perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any festive occasion. With juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and vibrant veggies, these kabobs are not only delicious but also fun to make. The sweet Hawaiian sauce adds a unique touch that will impress your guests and keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These kabobs come together in under an hour, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of pineapple juice and honey creates a sweet marinade that infuses the chicken with amazing flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize these kabobs with your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins as desired.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh produce, they are a wholesome meal choice.
• Perfect for Entertaining: These kabobs look great on a platter and are easy to serve at gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Hawaiian chicken kabobs, you’ll need some essential tools to make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden skewers
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Air fryer or oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden skewers: Perfect for holding all the flavorful ingredients together while grilling or air frying.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating your chicken and mixing sauces without mess.
• Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly when preparing marinades and sauces.

Ingredients

These Hawaiian chicken kabobs are stacked with tender, juicy chicken, pineapple, red onion, and pepper. Brush the sweet Hawaiian sauce on top and serve them with fluffy coconut rice.

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup aminos (or soy sauce if you aren’t gluten free)
• 1/4 cup 100% pineapple juice (use the juice from the canned pineapple below)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Kabobs

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into 1 inch chunks)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch or tapioca flour (reserved until the end)
• 2 red bell peppers (cut into 1 inch chunks)
• 1 medium red onion (cut into 1 inch chunks)
• 1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks (in 100% juice)

For Garnish

• 12-15 wooden skewers

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How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Whisk together the coconut aminos, pineapple juice, honey, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and salt in a medium bowl. Place the diced chicken in another medium bowl and pour half of the marinade over it. Cover the leftover marinade and store it in the fridge for later use as a sauce. Stir the chicken well and seal it with a lid or plastic wrap. Marinate in the fridge for at least one hour or up to two days.

Step 2: Soak Skewers

Before you’re ready to cook, place the wooden skewers in warm water to soak for about 30 minutes. While they’re soaking, chop all of your vegetables to save time later.

Step 3: Assemble Kabobs

Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge. Alternate adding pieces of diced chicken, onion, pineapple chunks, and red pepper onto each skewer. Leave about an inch on either end of each skewer for easy handling. Discard any remaining marinade from the bowl.

Step 4: Cook Kabobs

Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through cooking. If using an air fryer with multiple settings like ours from Cafe, use the air fry option. Once cooked through, place them on a baking sheet under a broiler set to high for 2-3 minutes to achieve a nice char—just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 5: Prepare Sauce

While the kabobs are cooking, heat up the second half of your marinade in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Whisk together tapioca flour with one tablespoon of water before adding it to the pot. Bring it to a boil while stirring frequently until thickened—this should take about one minute. Remove from heat once it coats the back of a spoon.

Step 6: Serve Kabobs

Brush your freshly cooked kabobs with the thickened sauce before serving. These Hawaiian chicken kabobs pair beautifully with fluffy coconut rice for a complete meal that everyone will love!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Hawaiian chicken kabobs are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, these kabobs offer versatility and flavor. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Coconut Rice

• Fluffy coconut rice: The sweet and creamy flavors of coconut rice complement the kabobs beautifully. Simply cook your rice with coconut milk for added richness.

As Part of a Tropical Feast

• Pineapple salsa: Add a fresh pineapple salsa on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Combine diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing topping.
• Mango salad: Serve with a mango salad tossed in lime dressing for a bright and tangy addition.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed greens salad: Place the kabobs on a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with your favorite vinaigrette. This adds crunch and freshness to your meal.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots can provide a nice textural contrast.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sweet chili sauce: Offer sweet chili sauce for dipping to enhance the sweetness of the kabobs.
• Peanut sauce: A creamy peanut sauce can add depth and richness—perfect for those who love bold flavors.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Creating the perfect Hawaiian chicken kabobs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out tender and flavorful.

• Marinate well: Letting the chicken marinate for at least one hour allows flavors to penetrate deep into the meat.
• Soak skewers: Soaking wooden skewers in water prevents them from burning during cooking.
• Cut ingredients evenly: Ensure all vegetables and chicken pieces are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the skewers: Leave space between each piece on the skewer. This allows hot air to circulate and promotes even cooking.
• Use high heat: Cooking at high temperatures helps achieve that perfect char while keeping the insides juicy.
• Let rest before serving: Allowing the kabobs to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain their juices.

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Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Pairing sides with Hawaiian chicken kabobs enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that balance taste and texture perfectly.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled alongside the kabobs add vibrant colors and flavors.
2. Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf with herbs offers subtle flavor without overshadowing the kabobs.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn drizzled with butter and lime adds sweetness that’s perfect alongside savory kabobs.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with veggies provides protein and complements the meal well.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with spices make for a hearty side dish that everyone loves.
6. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad brings brightness to your plate, balancing out savory flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian chicken kabobs, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Over-marinating the chicken: Marinating for too long can make the chicken mushy. Stick to a maximum of 2 days in the fridge for optimal texture.
• Not soaking the skewers: If you skip soaking wooden skewers, they can catch fire while cooking. Always soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before using.
• Skipping the sauce thickening step: The thickened sauce adds flavor and gloss to your kabobs. Don’t skip this; it enhances the overall dish.
• Under or overcooking the kabobs: Cooking times can vary based on your equipment. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety without drying it out.
• Cutting vegetables too large: If your veggies are unevenly cut, they won’t cook evenly with the chicken. Aim for uniform 1-inch chunks.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

• To freeze, place cooled kabobs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat kabobs on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick pan over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs gluten-free?

You can use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

Can I use other proteins for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu if you’re looking for vegetarian options.

What’s the best way to grill Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

Preheat your grill and brush it with oil before adding the kabobs. Grill on medium-high heat for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.

How can I customize my Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

You can switch up the vegetables by adding zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

These Hawaiian chicken kabobs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different proteins and veggies to suit your taste. The sweet and savory flavors combined with fluffy coconut rice make this dish perfect for any dinner table. Give it a try and enjoy a tropical escape right at home!

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Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

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Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs are a delightful escape to tropical flavors, making them a perfect addition to your summer barbecues or family dinners. These kabobs are easy to prepare and feature tender chicken marinated in a sweet Hawaiian sauce, paired with juicy pineapple and colorful bell peppers. The result is a visually appealing dish that tastes as good as it looks. In just under an hour, you can serve these crowd-pleasers that not only satisfy hunger but also impress your guests with their vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation.

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast
• 1/4 cup coconut aminos (or soy sauce)
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 red bell peppers
• 1 medium red onion
• 1 can pineapple chunks

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together coconut aminos, pineapple juice, honey, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and salt. Marinate chicken for at least one hour.
2. Soak wooden skewers in warm water for 30 minutes.
3. Assemble kabobs by alternating pieces of marinated chicken, onion, pineapple, and red pepper on skewers.
4. Air fry kabobs at 400°F for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Heat remaining marinade in a saucepan until thickened and brush over kabobs before serving.

• Author: Emmeline
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 kabobs (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 590mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, add different vegetables such as zucchini or cherry tomatoes. Serve with fluffy coconut rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.