Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Name: Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1/3 cup ketchup; 1/3 cup dark brown sugar; 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup canned pineapple juice; 4 Tbsp olive oil (divided); 1 1/2 Tbsp rice vinegar; 4 garlic cloves (minced); 1 Tbsp minced ginger; 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (cubed); 3 cups fresh pineapple (cubed); 1 large red onion (diced); 1 1/2 large green peppers (diced)

Published: June 24, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
Flavor-Packed: The marinade infuses the chicken with a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess that everyone will enjoy.
Versatile Option: Perfect for grilling at summer parties or serving as a quick weeknight dinner.
Healthy Ingredients: Made with fresh chicken and vegetables, these kebabs provide a nutritious meal option without sacrificing taste.
Fun for Everyone: Skewering your own kebabs can be a fun activity for families or gatherings, allowing everyone to customize their skewers.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs requires some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here’s what you will need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Wooden skewers
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Grill
Gallon-sized resealable bag

Importance of Each Tool

Wooden skewers: These are essential for threading your delicious ingredients together, making them easy to grill and serve.
Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl is crucial for creating your flavorful marinade without any spills.
Grill: The grill gives the kebabs that smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Ingredients

Chicken pieces are soaked in a simple, flavorful, sweet and tangy marinade then threaded onto skewers along with fresh pineapple and colorful peppers and onions. Amazingly delicious and the perfect summertime dinner!

Ingredients:
– 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)
– 1 Tbsp minced ginger
– 1/2 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– 1 3/4 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (chopped into 1 1/4-inch cubes)
– 3 cups 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)

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the following ingredients until well combined:
* Ketchup
* Dark brown sugar
* Low-sodium soy sauce
* Canned pineapple juice
* 2 Tbsp olive oil
* Rice vinegar
* Minced garlic
* Minced ginger
* Sesame oil

Stir in 3/4 tsp black pepper and add salt if desired.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chopped chicken in a gallon-sized resealable bag. Reserve 1/2 cup of the marinade in the refrigerator. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken in the bag. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour. Meanwhile, soak ten wooden skewers in water for about an hour.

Step 3: Prepare Vegetables and Grill

Preheat your grill over medium heat to around 400°F (200°C). Drizzle remaining olive oil over diced red onion, green peppers, and cubed pineapple; toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Thread red onion, bell pepper, pineapple, and marinated chicken onto skewers until all ingredients are used.

Step 4: Grill the Kebabs

Brush grill grates with olive oil. Place skewers on the grill and cook for about five minutes. Brush tops with 1/4 cup of reserved marinade. Rotate to cook on the opposite side while brushing with remaining marinade.

Step 5: Check Doneness

Allow kebabs to grill for about four more minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from grill and serve warm. Enjoy your Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Their sweet and savory flavors pair well with many sides and garnishes, making them versatile for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

With Fresh Salad

Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a citrus vinaigrette complements the kebabs beautifully.
Tropical Fruit Salad: Combine fresh fruits like mango, kiwi, and papaya for a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.

Over Rice or Quinoa

Coconut Rice: Cooked with coconut milk, this rice adds a tropical flair that enhances the flavors of the kebabs.
Quinoa Pilaf: Flavored with herbs and spices, quinoa is a nutritious base that absorbs the juices from the kebabs.

On a Platter

Skewered Arrangement: Arrange the kebabs on a large platter with pineapple chunks and colorful bell peppers for an eye-catching presentation.
Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces such as sweet chili or teriyaki to add an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Achieving the perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs requires attention to detail during preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to elevate your grilling game:

Marinate Properly: Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least an hour enhances flavor depth.
Soak Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers in water prevents them from burning on the grill.
Even Cubes: Cut chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking on the grill.
Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to 400°F (200°C) for optimal grilling results and to achieve those perfect char marks.
Use a Thermometer: Check that chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked through.
Rest Before Serving: Let kebabs rest for a few minutes post-grilling; this helps retain juices and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs can elevate your meal significantly. Here are some great options:

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until charred adds texture and sweetness.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that balances the skewers’ richness.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots roasted add color and nutrition.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes complements the flavors of your kebabs perfectly.
Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with spices and veggies is fluffy and easy to prepare alongside your main dish.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread serves as a satisfying accompaniment to soak up any extra sauce from your kebabs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your experience with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs.

Bold Marinade Missteps: Don’t skip soaking the chicken in the marinade. This step ensures the chicken absorbs all the flavors, resulting in a juicier kebab.
Bold Skewer Preparation Oversight: Remember to soak wooden skewers in water before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill and keeps your kebabs intact.
Bold Ignoring Temperature Checks: Always check the chicken’s internal temperature. Cooking it to 165°F (75°C) ensures it’s safe to eat, preventing any food safety issues.
Bold Overcrowding on Skewers: Avoid cramming too much onto each skewer. Maintain space between pieces for even cooking and better caramelization of vegetables and chicken.
Bold Neglecting to Brush Marinade: Don’t forget to brush extra marinade on the kebabs while grilling. This adds moisture and enhances flavor during cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs in an airtight container.
They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Place cooled kebabs in freezer-safe bags or containers.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kebabs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs that may help you enjoy this dish even more.

Can I use other meats for Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Absolutely! Beef, turkey, or lamb can be great substitutes. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

How do I customize my Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. You can also use different fruits such as mango for added sweetness.

What should I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?

These kebabs pair well with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables. Create a colorful platter for a complete meal!

Are Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs suitable for meal prep?

Yes! They store well and can be made ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to make. They’re perfect for summer grilling or any casual get-together. Feel free to customize them with your favorite vegetables and marinades. Try these kebabs today, and bring a taste of Hawaii right to your kitchen!