Why Make This Recipe
Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs are a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. They are easy to prepare and perfect for grilling during sunny days or for a fun summer barbecue. The combination of juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and sweet pineapple makes these kebabs not only tasty but also colorful and appealing. Plus, they are sure to impress your family and friends!
How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs
Ingredients
- Freshly ground black pepper, as much as you like
- Sprinkle of salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped up
- 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (split up), plus extra to rub on grill
- 1/4 cup canned pineapple juice
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1 large red onion, cut into 1 1/4-inch chunks
- 1 1/2 big green bell peppers, chopped into 1 1/4-inch pieces
- 3 cups ripe pineapple, chopped (you’ll need about 3/4 of a 3-pound fruit)
- 1 3/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into 1 1/4-inch chunks
Directions
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Start by making the marinade. In a medium bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Add some pepper and salt until it tastes just right.
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Place the chicken cubes into a big zip-top bag. Save 1/2 cup of the marinade in the fridge for later. Pour the rest of the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and shake it well. Let it sit in the fridge for about 1 hour to soak up the flavors.
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While the chicken marinates, soak 10 wooden skewers in cold water for 1 hour. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
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After soaking, drizzle the last 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the cut pineapple, bell peppers, and red onion. Toss everything so it is well-coated. Sprinkle the bell pepper and onion with a little salt and pepper.
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Fire up the grill to medium heat, aiming for 400°F. Rub the grates with some olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Slide the soaked skewers through the marinated chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, and red onion, alternating as you go until you use up all the chicken.
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Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes. Brush the tops with half of the saved marinade, flip them, and splash on the rest. Grill for about 4 more minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F in the middle.
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Take the kebabs off the heat and enjoy them hot off the grill!
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs
Serve Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs on a platter or individual plates. They pair wonderfully with a side of rice or a fresh salad. You can also squeeze some lime juice on top for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy them as a filling lunch, dinner, or as part of a festive gathering.
How to Store Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs
If you have leftovers, allow the kebabs to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also wrap them tightly in foil and keep them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm them in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.
Tips to Make Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs
- Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh pineapples and veggies taste better than canned or frozen ones.
- Vegetable Options: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for more variety.
- Check Doneness: Always check that the chicken is cooked through to prevent any foodborne illnesses.
Variation
You can easily change up this recipe by substituting shrimp or pork for the chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as shrimp cooks faster than chicken. You can also experiment with different fruits like mango or peaches for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before marinating for more even flavor absorption.
2. What can I substitute for soy sauce?
You can use coconut aminos or tamari if you want a gluten-free option.
3. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use extra veggies as well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Enjoy making and sharing this Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs recipe with your loved ones!