Grilled Hawaiian chicken kabobs are a delightful dish that brings the flavors of summer right to your table. This recipe combines tender chicken with colorful veggies and a tangy marinade, making it perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or any festive gathering. The sweet and savory elements of the kabobs create a unique taste that is sure to impress your guests.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Kabobs
- For the Marinade
- For Garnish
- How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
- Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Step 3: Preheat the Grill
- Step 4: Prepare Vegetables
- Step 5: Assemble Kabobs
- Step 6: Grill Kabobs
- How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
- Fresh Salad Pairing
- Tropical Rice
- Dipping Sauces
- How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
- Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
- Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best way to serve Hawaiian chicken kabobs?
- Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
- How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs spicy?
- Can I make these kabobs ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have these kabobs ready in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of pineapple, peppers, and a zesty marinade delivers an incredible burst of flavor in every bite.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap out vegetables or add your favorite proteins to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer cookout or a cozy indoor dinner, these kabobs fit right in.
- Great for Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for an easy weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making Hawaiian chicken kabobs, gather the necessary tools. Having everything on hand will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skewers
- Grill
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Basting brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Skewers: Essential for threading the chicken and vegetables together, ensuring even cooking on the grill.
- Grill: Provides the smoky flavor that enhances the taste of the kabobs. A good grill also allows for precise temperature control.
- Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients and marinating the chicken thoroughly before grilling.
Ingredients
Grilled Hawaiian chicken kabobs have tender chicken, colorful veggies, and tangy sauce. It’s the perfect summer meal!
For the 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, ensuring it is well-coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
Step 4: Prepare Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine diced bell peppers, pineapple chunks, and onions. Toss them with 3 tablespoons of reserved marinade.
Step 5: Assemble Kabobs
Thread marinated chicken and prepared vegetables onto skewers in an alternating pattern.
Step 6: Grill Kabobs
Grill for 12 to 16 minutes or until cooked through. Turn skewers frequently while brushing with remaining marinade during cooking.
Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian chicken kabobs!
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Grilled Hawaiian chicken kabobs are versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these kabobs will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
Fresh Salad Pairing
- Tossed Green Salad: A light mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the kabobs.
- Coleslaw: The crunch and creaminess of coleslaw balance the grilled flavors perfectly.
Tropical Rice
- Coconut Rice: Cook rice in coconut milk for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the kabobs’ flavors.
- Pineapple Fried Rice: Stir-fry rice with pineapple chunks, peas, and carrots for added texture and taste.
Dipping Sauces
- Sweet Chili Sauce: This sweet and spicy sauce enhances the flavors of the chicken kabobs.
- Teriyaki Sauce: A drizzle of teriyaki adds an extra layer of umami that complements the dish.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Creating perfect Hawaiian chicken kabobs is all about balancing flavors and ensuring juicy chicken. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.
- Marinate Longer: For more flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours instead of just 30 minutes.
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Choose Uniform Pieces: Cut chicken and vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Preheat Grill Properly: Ensure your grill is hot enough before placing kabobs on it; medium-high heat is ideal for grilling.
- Baste Often: Brush with marinade during grilling to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Pairing sides with Hawaiian chicken kabobs enhances your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and grilled until slightly charred adds a delightful crunch.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, black beans, corn, and lime dressing provides a nutritious complement.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread brings a comforting element that everyone loves.
- Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers with watermelon, strawberries, and melon offer a sweet contrast to savory kabobs.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds heartiness to your meal while balancing the flavors of the kabobs.
- Baked Beans: Smoky baked beans provide an earthy flavor profile that pairs well with grilled meats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hawaiian chicken kabobs, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but marinating for several hours enhances the taste significantly.
Using Low-Quality Skewers: Wooden skewers can burn easily on the grill. Soak them in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent this issue, or opt for metal skewers for better results.
Ignoring Vegetable Sizes: Cutting vegetables into uneven sizes can cause uneven cooking. Make sure all pieces are similar in size for consistent grilling.
Not Preheating the Grill: A cold grill can lead to longer cooking times and uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding your kabobs.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Hawaiian chicken kabobs in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
- Wrap individual kabobs tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place kabobs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Sauté kabobs for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to serve Hawaiian chicken kabobs?
Serving Hawaiian chicken kabobs with rice or a fresh salad complements their flavors well. You can also offer extra dipping sauce on the side!
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! This recipe works great with shrimp or beef as well, but remember that cooking times will vary based on your choice of meat.
How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs spicy?
To add spice, increase the amount of sriracha in the marinade or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the skewers before grilling.
Can I make these kabobs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and marinate them in advance. Just remember to keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to grill.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian chicken kabobs are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you enjoy them at a summer barbecue or as an easy weeknight dinner, these kabobs are sure to impress! We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own by adding different veggies or proteins!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Hawaiian chicken kabobs are a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of summer. These kabobs combine succulent pieces of marinated chicken with colorful vegetables and juicy pineapple, all grilled to perfection. The sweet-tangy marinade, featuring soy sauce and pineapple juice, infuses every bite with delightful flavors. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy family meal, these kabobs are sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and customizable, allowing you to add your favorite veggies or proteins. Get ready to impress your guests with this crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.
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
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a bowl or bag, mix marinade ingredients; set aside half for veggies.
- Coat chicken in remaining marinade and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
- Toss veggies in reserved marinade.
- Thread chicken and veggies onto skewers alternately.
- Grill for 12-16 minutes, turning frequently and basting with leftover 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: 2 kabobs (210g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
