Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs are the perfect summer dish to transport you to a tropical paradise! With juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet pineapple, these skewers burst with flavor and sunshine. Having made them countless times for family gatherings, I can assure you they’re a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Why Make This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of marinated chicken with fresh pineapple and colorful veggies creates a mouthwatering explosion of taste.
- Nutritious and Balanced: This recipe incorporates lean protein from chicken and refreshing vitamins from vegetables and fruit, making it a healthy choice.
- Quick and Convenient: With a prep time of just 20 minutes and grilling in around 10 minutes, you can whip these up for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute barbecue.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or backyard cookouts, these kebabs bring a festive twist to any meal.
- Personal Connection: I love making these kebabs because they remind me of vacations in Hawaii. They evoke memories of sun-soaked days at the beach with family and friends.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Cooking Method: Grilling
These kebabs are grilled to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while achieving that perfect char.
My Experience Making This Recipe
When I first made Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs, I underestimated the importance of marinating the chicken for flavor depth. After letting it sit in the marinade overnight, the chicken became incredibly tender and infused with sweetness. I’ve also learned that using fresh, ripe pineapple makes all the difference in flavor.
How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs
To begin, you’ll marinate cubed chicken in a savory mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor. Then, you’ll thread the marinated chicken and alternating chunks of pineapple and colorful bell peppers onto skewers. Grill them over medium-high heat until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, and the veggies are tender and slightly charred. Expect your kitchen to fill with a delightful aroma!
Expert Tips for Success
- Use Metal Skewers: If you have them, metal skewers are reusable and heat up faster, which helps cook the kebabs more evenly.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Cut Uniform Pieces: Ensure the chicken and veggies are cut into similar sizes for even cooking throughout.
- Check Doneness with a Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Make Extra Marinade: Reserve some marinade before adding the raw chicken, so you can brush it over the kebabs as they grill for added flavor.
How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs
These kebabs shine on their own, but you can elevate your presentation by serving them over a bed of coconut rice or alongside a fresh green salad. You could also drizzle some teriyaki sauce on top or serve with a zesty dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce. Perfect for summer barbecues or backyard parties!
Storage and Reheating Guide
To store leftover kebabs, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. For reheating, microwave them in short intervals or reheat on a grill or stovetop pan over medium heat to maintain the texture.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free marinade.
- Dairy-Free Adaptation: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it suitable for various diets.
- Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based kebab.
Nutritional Highlights
These kebabs are not only tasty but also a healthy choice! They are high in protein, thanks to the chicken, and the pineapple adds beneficial vitamins and antioxidants. Remember, one serving provides a good balance of macronutrients without excessive calories.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Dry Chicken: To avoid dry chicken, marinate for longer and use good quality, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Charred Veggies: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. A quick cook will prevent the vegetables from burning before the chicken cooks through.
- Sticking Skewers: If you find your skewers stick to the grill, oil both the grill grates and the skewers before adding your ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator prior to marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking. -
What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to get creative! Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even onion can provide great flavor and texture to your kebabs. -
How do I know when the chicken is done?
A meat thermometer is the most reliable method. When it reads 165°F in the thickest part, your chicken is safe to eat! -
Is grilling necessary for this recipe?
Not at all! You can also cook these kebabs in a broiler or on a stovetop grill pan if grilling isn’t an option. Just keep an eye on them!
These Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs are a delightful treat that captures the flavors of summer. Happy cooking!
Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free (when using gluten-free soy sauce)
Description
Juicy chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet pineapple come together in these delightful Hawaiian Chicken Pineapple Kebabs, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cubed
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, cubed
- 1 bell pepper, any color, cubed
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Metal or wooden skewers
Instructions
- Marinate the cubed chicken in a mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight.
- Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple, and bell pepper onto skewers.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the kebabs for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the veggies are tender.
- Serve immediately, optionally over coconut rice or with a dipping sauce.
Notes
For best results, ensure even cooking by cutting all ingredients into similar sizes and consider soaking wooden skewers in water to prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian