Grilled Hawaiian chicken kabobs are a delightful summer dish that brings together tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a tangy sauce. Perfect for barbecues, family gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home, these kabobs are easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory chicken makes them a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these kabobs in no time.
- Flavor-packed: The marinade infuses the chicken and veggies with a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors.
- Versatile: Customize your kabobs with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to your liking.
- Perfect for gatherings: These kabobs are ideal for grilling parties or casual dinners, pleasing both kids and adults.
- Healthy option: Packed with lean protein and veggies, Hawaiian chicken kabobs are a nutritious meal choice.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making Hawaiian chicken kabobs, gather your tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skewers
- Grill
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skewers: Essential for threading the chicken and vegetables together for grilling.
- Grill: Provides the perfect cooking environment to achieve that smoky flavor.
- Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine ingredients easily when making the marinade.
- Basting brush: Helpful for applying marinade while cooking to enhance flavor.
Ingredients
To create delicious Hawaiian chicken kabobs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken Kabobs
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 orange bell pepper (diced into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 green bell pepper (diced into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 red onion (diced into bite-sized pieces)
For the Marinade
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup pineapple juice
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Combine all marinade ingredients in a small bowl or freezer bag. Set aside ½ cup of the mixture for the vegetables.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken to the remaining marinade. Ensure it is well-coated and allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
Step 4: Prepare Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine diced bell peppers, pineapple chunks, and onions. Toss with 3 tablespoons of reserved marinade.
Step 5: Assemble Kabobs
Thread marinated chicken and vegetable mixture onto skewers alternately.
Step 6: Grill Kabobs
Grill skewers for 12 to 16 minutes or until fully cooked. Turn frequently while brushing with remaining marinade during cooking.
Enjoy your flavorful Hawaiian chicken kabobs!
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Grilled Hawaiian chicken kabobs are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
On a Bed of Rice
- Serve the kabobs over a bed of fluffy jasmine or coconut rice for added flavor and texture.
With Fresh Salad
- Pair the kabobs with a crisp green salad topped with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
In Tacos
- Shred the grilled chicken and veggies and serve them in soft tortillas with avocado and salsa for a tropical twist.
With Dipping Sauces
- Offer various dipping sauces, such as sweet chili sauce or teriyaki sauce, to give your guests options for extra flavor.
As Part of a Skewers Platter
- Combine these kabobs with other skewered items, like shrimp or veggies, for an impressive appetizer spread at gatherings.
With Grilled Corn
- Serve alongside grilled corn on the cob brushed with butter and sprinkled with lime juice for a complete summer meal.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
To make the best Hawaiian chicken kabobs, keep these tips in mind:
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for 4 hours enhances the flavor significantly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and pineapple will elevate the taste of your kabobs.
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure there’s space between chicken pieces and vegetables on skewers for even cooking.
- Monitor Grill Temperature: Keep the grill at medium-high heat (around 400°F) to achieve perfectly cooked kabobs.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the kabobs rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian chicken kabobs will round out your meal beautifully. Consider these options:
- Grilled Pineapple Slices: Sweet and juicy, grilled pineapple adds a tropical touch that complements the kabobs perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the kabobs.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with citrus dressing adds nutritional value and pairs well with grilled flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is an excellent choice if you’re looking for something comforting alongside your meal.
- Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed with vinegar offers a nice crunch and balances out the sweetness of the kabobs.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the tangy flavor profile of Hawaiian chicken kabobs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian chicken kabobs, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum taste.
Overcrowding Skewers: Packing too many ingredients on a skewer can prevent even cooking. Use a balanced amount of chicken and vegetables, leaving some space between items for proper heat circulation.
Ignoring Grill Temperature: Grilling at too low a temperature can result in dry meat. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F) for juicy and perfectly cooked kabobs.
Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients enhance flavor significantly. Opt for fresh vegetables and pineapple chunks instead of canned options when preparing your Hawaiian chicken kabobs.
Neglecting to Baste: Failing to baste while grilling can lead to dryness. Brush the kabobs with reserved marinade during cooking for extra moisture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Hawaiian chicken kabobs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Ensure they cool down before sealing the container to prevent condensation.
Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
- Place cooled kabobs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place kabobs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth and cover. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?
Hawaiian chicken kabobs are skewers made with marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and pineapple, all grilled to perfection. They offer a delicious tropical flavor perfect for summer meals.
How long do I need to marinate Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but you can go up to 4 hours if time allows. This helps infuse the flavors deeply into the meat.
Can I customize my Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?
Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms, or even swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu based on your preferences.
What should I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?
These kabobs pair wonderfully with coconut rice or a refreshing salad. Adding some grilled corn on the side makes it an ideal summer meal!
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian chicken kabobs are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile and flavorful. With their balance of sweet pineapple and savory marinade, they make an excellent dish for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with different vegetables or proteins according to your tastes! Enjoy this delightful recipe during your next summer gathering!
Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Grilled Hawaiian chicken kabobs are a vibrant and flavorful summer dish that combines succulent chicken, a medley of colorful vegetables, and juicy pineapple. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for barbecues, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home. The sweet and savory marinade infuses every bite with an irresistible tropical flair, making these kabobs a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you serve them over fluffy rice or alongside fresh salads, these kabobs are sure to please everyone at the table.
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 orange bell pepper (diced)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 1 red onion (diced)
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup pineapple juice
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix all marinade ingredients. Reserve half a cup for veggies.
- Add chicken to the remaining marinade, ensuring it’s well-coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
- Toss diced bell peppers and onions with reserved marinade in a large bowl.
- Thread marinated chicken and veggies onto skewers alternately.
- Grill kabobs for about 12 to 16 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with remaining marinade until fully cooked.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately two skewers (210g)
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 930mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the chicken longer if time allows. Customize your kabobs by adding your favorite veggies like zucchini or mushrooms. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.