Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Hawaiian chicken kabobs are a delightful way to enjoy summer meals. These kabobs feature tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy marinade that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. Perfect for barbecues, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time, these kabobs can be ready in under an hour.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet pineapple and savory marinade creates a delicious balance.
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the veggies make for an eye-catching dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to look at.
• Versatile Option: Great for any occasion, from casual cookouts to elegant dinners.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and veggies, these kabobs are a nutritious meal option.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Hawaiian chicken kabobs, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Large bowl
• Small bowl or freezer bag
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the high heat needed for perfectly charred kabobs.
• Skewers: Essential for threading your ingredients together; choose metal for reuse or wooden for easy disposal.
• Basting brush: Helps apply marinade evenly while grilling, enhancing flavor.

Ingredients

Grilled Hawaiian chicken kabobs have tender chicken, colorful veggies, and tangy sauce. It’s the perfect summer meal!

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)

For the Vegetables

• 1 red bell pepper (diced into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 orange bell pepper (diced into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 green bell pepper (diced into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 red onion (diced into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks

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 each piece is well-coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). This ensures that your kabobs cook evenly and develop nice grill marks.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the diced bell peppers, pineapple chunks, and onions. Toss them with 3 tablespoons of the reserved marinade.

Step 5: Assemble Kabobs

Thread marinated chicken and prepared vegetables onto skewers in an alternating pattern for visual appeal.

Step 6: Grill Kabobs

Place skewers on the grill and cook for about 12 to 16 minutes. Turn them frequently and brush with remaining marinade during cooking until chicken is fully cooked through. Enjoy!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Serving Hawaiian chicken kabobs is a delightful experience that brings the flavors of summer to your table. With their vibrant colors and delicious taste, these kabobs can be a centerpiece for any gathering.

On a Bed of Rice

• White Rice: A classic choice that soaks up the kabob’s juices.
• Brown Rice: A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor.
• Coconut Rice: Infused with coconut milk for a tropical twist.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds a sweet and spicy kick.
• Teriyaki Sauce: Complements the Hawaiian flavors beautifully.
• Garlic Aioli: A creamy alternative that pairs well with grilled chicken.

Accompanied by Fresh Salads

• Tropical Fruit Salad: Combines fresh fruits like mango and kiwi for a refreshing side.
• Coleslaw: Offers crunch and creaminess, balancing the kabobs’ flavors.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Perfecting your Hawaiian chicken kabobs ensures they are juicy and flavorful every time. Follow these tips for an amazing grilling experience.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for up to 4 hours enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Preheat the Grill: A hot grill ensures nice char marks and prevents sticking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and pineapple contribute to vibrant flavors.
• Don’t Crowd the Skewers: Give each piece space to cook evenly and develop that perfect char.
• Baste During Cooking: Brushing on reserved marinade keeps the kabobs moist and flavorful.
• Check Internal Temperature: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian chicken kabobs enhances the meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter complements the smoky flavors of the kabobs.
2. Quinoa Salad: A healthy, protein-packed salad that adds texture and flavor.
3. Garlic Bread: Crunchy bread slathered in garlic butter makes for an irresistible side.
4. Vegetable Skewers: Grilled veggies add more color and nutrition to your meal.
5. Baked Beans: Their sweetness pairs nicely with savory chicken kabobs.
6. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad balances the grilled flavors perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using dry chicken: Make sure to marinate the chicken long enough. A minimum of 30 minutes helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
• Overcrowding skewers: Avoid packing too many ingredients on a skewer. Leave space between pieces for even cooking and better flavor.
• Ignoring grill temperature: Always preheat your grill. Cooking at the right temperature ensures that the kabobs get a nice char without drying out.
• Skipping the sauce: Don’t forget to reserve some marinade for basting. This adds moisture and enhances the flavor while grilling.
• Not checking doneness: Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow kabobs to cool completely before placing them in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place kabobs on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (1 minute), checking frequently until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

Hawaiian chicken kabobs are skewers made with marinated chicken, colorful vegetables, and pineapple, grilled to perfection.

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor.

How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs spicy?

Add more sriracha or include diced jalapeños in your marinade for an extra kick!

What can I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs?

These kabobs pair well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like teriyaki or sweet chili.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian chicken kabobs offer a delightful blend of flavors that make them perfect for summer grilling. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the burst of tropical flavors!

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Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 31 minutes
• Yield: Serves four people 1x

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Description

Grilled Hawaiian chicken kabobs are the perfect summer treat, combining juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and sweet pineapple marinated in a tangy sauce. This delightful recipe is not only easy to prepare but also provides a burst of tropical flavors that will impress your guests at barbecues, family gatherings, or even a cozy weeknight dinner. In just under an hour, you can serve up these colorful skewers that are both nutritious and visually stunning. Whether paired with rice or fresh salads, these kabobs make for an unforgettable meal that captures the essence of summer.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 orange bell pepper (diced)
• 1 green bell pepper (diced)
• 1 red onion (diced)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 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
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade by combining all marinade ingredients in a small bowl or freezer bag. Reserve ½ cup for the vegetables.
2. Marinate the chicken in the remaining mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
4. Toss diced vegetables and pineapple with reserved marinade in a large bowl.
5. Thread marinated chicken and vegetables onto skewers alternately.
6. Grill kabobs for about 12 to 16 minutes, turning frequently and basting with remaining marinade until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 16 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 kabob (approximately 170g)
• Calories: 305
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 75mg