Craving a taste of the islands? Then you’ve come to the right place! These Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are the perfect way to bring a little Aloha spirit to your backyard grill. Chunks of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, vibrant bell peppers, and tangy red onion are marinated in a flavorful Hawaiian sauce and then threaded onto skewers for easy grilling.
Get ready for a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to a sunny beach!
What is Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs?
Ever wondered why we slap the “Hawaiian” label on anything with pineapple? Does it really make it authentically Hawaiian? While I can’t guarantee these Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs were first enjoyed on a luau in Maui, I can promise they capture the essence of tropical flavors.
Maybe some clever cook threw a pineapple chunk on a chicken skewer one day and thought, “This needs a catchy name!” Perhaps it was a way to lure picky eaters with the promise of sweet and savory deliciousness. Either way, we’re grateful! After all, they say ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,’ and these kebabs are sure to win over anyone. So, fire up the grill and give these island-inspired skewers a try – your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love These Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs:
These Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a summer grilling dream come true! First and foremost, that sweet and savory marinade is the star of the show, infusing every bite with irresistible flavor. But beyond the delectable taste, making these kebabs at home is a budget-friendly option compared to ordering takeout. You control the quality of ingredients and avoid restaurant markups. Plus, the vibrant colors of the pineapple and bell peppers make them not only delicious but also visually appealing.
For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade! If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to try our Tangy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers for another flavor adventure. Ready to grill your way to paradise? Let’s get cooking!
Key Ingredients for Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs:
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs. Gather these ingredients and get ready to transport yourself to the tropics! The amounts are specified in the recipe steps below.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Pineapple chunks: Fresh pineapple adds the best flavor, but canned in juice (drained) works too.
- Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and color. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Green bell pepper: Complements the red pepper with a slightly different flavor profile. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Red onion: Adds a sharp, pungent flavor. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Soy sauce: The base of the marinade, adding umami and saltiness.
- Brown sugar: Provides sweetness and helps the marinade caramelize on the grill.
- Pineapple juice: Enhances the pineapple flavor of the kebabs.
- Rice vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
- Garlic: Minced, for a pungent and aromatic flavor.
- Ginger: Grated or finely minced, adds a warm and slightly spicy note.
- Sesame oil: A touch of sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
- Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the marinade slightly, creating a nice glaze on the chicken.
- Wooden or metal skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
How to Make Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs:
These Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are surprisingly simple to make, offering a burst of tropical flavors in every bite. The secret lies in the marinade, which infuses the chicken with sweetness and tanginess. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and healthy meal on the table in under 30 minutes (excluding marinating time). The combination of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and colorful vegetables makes these kebabs a crowd-pleaser!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and cornstarch.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
- Prepare the Vegetables & Pineapple: While the chicken is marinating, cut the red and green bell peppers and red onion into 1-inch pieces. If using fresh pineapple, cut it into similar-sized chunks. Drain canned pineapple if using the canned option.
- Assemble the Kebabs: Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and red onion onto skewers, alternating the ingredients for a colorful presentation.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450°F). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the taste of the islands!
What to Serve Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs With
These Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. For a classic tropical meal, serve them with coconut rice and a fresh mango salsa. A light and refreshing cucumber salad or Asian slaw also complements the flavors of the kebabs beautifully. For a heartier meal, try serving them with grilled vegetables like zucchini and asparagus.
If you’re looking for a drink pairing, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a tropical cocktail like a Mai Tai would be a perfect match!
Top Tips for Perfecting Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs:
To ensure your Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a guaranteed success, here are some helpful tips:
- Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leave a little space between the chicken and vegetables on the skewers to allow for even cooking.
- Marinate for Flavor: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours is ideal.
- Control the Heat: Grill the kebabs over medium-high heat to ensure the chicken cooks through without burning the vegetables.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Pineapple Alternatives: If you don’t have fresh pineapple, you can use canned pineapple chunks (drained) or even try using other fruits like mango or peaches for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Make it Spicy: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or serve the kebabs with a drizzle of sriracha mayo.
- Marinade Consistency: For a thicker glaze, whisk 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then add to the marinade while it is simmering on the stove top. Simmer until thickened.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
If you have any leftover Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3- 4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave on medium heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For the best results, reheat the kebabs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You may want to brush them with a little extra marinade or pineapple juice to keep them moist.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked kebabs. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw the kebabs in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as described above.
Final Thoughts:
These Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs aren’t just a meal; they are a mini-vacation on a skewer! The combination of sweet pineapple, savory chicken, and vibrant vegetables is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, these kebabs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the taste of the islands! Enjoy and let us know how your Grilled Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs turn out in the comments below!
FAQs:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tend to stay more moist than chicken breasts, especially when grilled. Just make sure to trim any excess fat before cutting them into cubes.
Can I prepare the kebabs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the kebabs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. Just make sure to keep them covered to prevent the chicken and vegetables from drying out.
Can I grill these kebabs indoors?
Yes, you can grill these kebabs indoors using a grill pan or an indoor grill. Just make sure to ventilate your kitchen well.
Can I use different vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms would all be great additions.
What if I don’t have rice vinegar?
If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
Can I make these kebabs vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make these kebabs vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Just make sure to press the tofu or tempeh to remove excess water before marinating and threading onto skewers.
How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
To prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill, make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled. You can also brush the kebabs with a little oil before grilling.
Can I use a different sweetener in the marinade?
Yes, you can substitute honey or maple syrup. Remember to adjust the flavor balance to your taste.
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest