Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are a delicious and vibrant dish perfect for family dinners, summer barbecues, or a fun weeknight meal. This easy chicken kebab recipe features tender marinated chicken combined with colorful vegetables and juicy pineapple. The unique blend of flavors from the soy and orange marmalade marinade makes these skewers truly stand out. Enjoy them grilled to perfection, making them a delightful addition to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just a little time for marinating, you can have these skewers ready in under 30 minutes of cooking.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce and orange marmalade creates a sweet and savory taste that will please your palate.
• Colorful Presentation: The mix of chicken, bell pepper, onion, and pineapple makes for a visually appealing platter.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these skewers with rice, noodles, or on their own as tasty appetizers.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the fun of eating from skewers!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Hawaiian Chicken Skewers.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Gallon freezer bag
• Mixing bowl
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides high heat for perfect grilling results, giving your chicken that desirable charred flavor.
• Gallon freezer bag: Ideal for marinating chicken efficiently while minimizing cleanup.
• Basting brush: Helps evenly apply olive oil on the grill to prevent sticking.

Ingredients

This easy chicken kebab recipe is especially flavorful thanks to an easy soy and orange marmalade marinade and is sure to become a family favorite.

For the Chicken Marinade

• 3 skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons orange marmalade
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Skewers

• 12 skewers, (if wooden, soak in water for 20 minutes)
• 1 purple onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch pieces

For Cooking

• Olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a gallon freezer bag, add the chicken breasts.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chicken broth, orange marmalade, soy sauce, ground ginger, and garlic powder.
3. Pour this mixture into the freezer bag with the chicken.
4. Seal the bag well and marinate in the fridge for 2-4 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

1. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto each skewer, alternating with pieces of onion, red bell pepper, and pineapple.
2. Brush the grill lightly with olive oil.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

1. Place the assembled skewers onto the preheated grill.
2. Cook while turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from grill and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving.
2. Serve hot with rice or noodles if desired.

Enjoy your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Serving Hawaiian Chicken Skewers is an opportunity to get creative and make your meal truly special. These skewers are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

With Rice

• Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the savory marinade.
• Coconut Rice: For a tropical twist, pair with coconut rice, which enhances the Hawaiian theme.

With Noodles

• Soba Noodles: Toss soba noodles with a light soy sauce dressing for a refreshing side.
• Rice Noodles: Use rice noodles with a hint of lime and cilantro for added flavor.

In Tacos

• Tropical Chicken Tacos: Shred the cooked chicken skewers and serve in soft tortillas with pineapple salsa.
• Grilled Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as wraps for a low-carb option, adding fresh veggies and sauces.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce: A sweet and spicy sauce complements the flavors beautifully.
• Peanut Sauce: Creamy peanut sauce adds richness that pairs well with grilled chicken.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

To achieve the best Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, follow these helpful tips. They will enhance flavor and ensure juicy, tender chicken.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for 4 hours or overnight deepens flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs, which elevate the taste of your skewers.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot enough before cooking to achieve nice grill marks and prevent sticking.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to avoid burning on the grill.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leave space between each piece of chicken and vegetable for even cooking.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps retain juices.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Pairing sides with Hawaiian Chicken Skewers can enhance your meal. Here are some tasty options that complement their flavors well.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and corn tossed in olive oil create a vibrant side dish.
2. Mango Salad: A refreshing salad made with diced mango, cucumber, and lime juice adds sweetness.
3. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw balances the sweetness of the skewers with its tangy dressing.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides nutritious balance.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with savory chicken.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with olive oil and lime offers a delightful crunch beside your skewers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers experience. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using Dry Chicken: Overcooking chicken can lead to dryness. Make sure to marinate the chicken properly and monitor cooking time on the grill.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for marinating reduces flavor. Aim for at least 2 hours, but longer is better for more intense taste.

• Ignoring Skewer Preparation: Using unsoaked wooden skewers can result in burning. Always soak them in water for at least 20-30 minutes before grilling.

• Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too many ingredients onto one skewer can prevent even cooking. Alternate chicken with veggies and fruits, leaving some space between each piece.

• Neglecting Grill Temperature: Grilling at too low a temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for best results.

• Forgetting Garnish: Skipping fresh herbs like cilantro can diminish the dish’s presentation and flavor. Always add a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Hawaiian Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They will remain fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

• For long-term storage, freeze skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water and place skewers in the pan, covering until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have more questions about making Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, here are some common inquiries:

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can easily substitute chicken with turkey or beef for your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, while still enjoying great flavors.

How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy?

Marinating your chicken is essential. It not only adds flavor but also helps keep it moist during cooking.

What vegetables work well with Hawaiian Chicken Skewers?

You can use bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or even cherry tomatoes. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference!

What side dishes pair well with these skewers?

Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are delicious alongside rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. You can choose sides that complement the sweet and savory flavors of the dish.

How long do I need to marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 2 hours; however, overnight is best if you have the time!

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are not just easy to prepare; they are also bursting with flavor that everyone will love. The combination of sweet pineapple and savory marinade makes this recipe versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the marinade ingredients as desired. Enjoy these skewers at your next family gathering or barbecue!

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Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Hawaiian Chicken Skewers bring a tropical flair to your dinner table with their vibrant colors and delightful flavors. Tender chicken marinated in a sweet and savory blend of soy sauce and orange marmalade is perfectly combined with juicy pineapple and colorful vegetables. These skewers are not only quick to prepare but also make for an impressive presentation, whether at family barbecues or weeknight meals. The combination of grilled chicken, bell peppers, onions, and pineapple creates a satisfying dish that everyone will love. Easy to customize based on your favorite veggies, Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are sure to become a family favorite!

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Ingredients

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• 3 skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons orange marmalade
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1 purple onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped

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Instructions

1. Marinate the chicken by combining chicken broth, orange marmalade, soy sauce, ground ginger, and garlic powder in a bowl. Pour over the chicken chunks in a gallon freezer bag. Seal and refrigerate for 2–4 hours.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
3. Assemble skewers by threading marinated chicken, onion, red bell pepper, and pineapple onto each skewer.
4. Lightly brush the grill with olive oil and place skewers on it.
5. Grill for 8–10 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Tropical

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 skewers (approximately 180g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 65mg