Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love these Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs because they are packed with flavor and are so easy to make. The marinade is a perfect blend of sweet and savory with a tropical touch from the pineapple juice. Grilling them brings out that smoky flavor, and every bite is bursting with juicy, flavorful chicken. They’re perfect for a family dinner, a party, or just a fun weeknight meal. Plus, they’re customizable – you can add your favorite veggies to the skewers to make them even more delicious!

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup ketchup

• 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar

• 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 1/4 cup canned pineapple juice

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the ketchup, dark brown sugar, soy sauce, and pineapple juice until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well combined.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Cut your chicken into bite-sized cubes and place them in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and seal the bag or cover the dish. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or overnight for even more flavor.

3. Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

4. Assemble the Kebabs: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, alternating with your choice of vegetables. Bell peppers, onions, and pineapple chunks make great additions for extra flavor and color.

5. Grill the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is fully cooked. Be sure to baste the chicken with any leftover marinade while grilling for extra flavor.

6. Serve: Once cooked through, remove the kebabs from the grill and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as rice or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings, depending on how much chicken and vegetables you use per skewer. Prep time is around 10 minutes, plus at least 1 hour of marinating time, and the cooking time on the grill is about 15-20 minutes.

Variations

• Add veggies: You can customize your kebabs with a variety of vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and color.

• Substitute the chicken: Try using shrimp, pork, or beef instead of chicken for a different take on these tropical kebabs.

• Spicy kick: If you like some heat, add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover kebabs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make these kebabs in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook these kebabs in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked, flipping the kebabs halfway through.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple juice?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple juice if you prefer. Just blend fresh pineapple and strain out the juice for the marinade.

Can I make these kebabs ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers ahead of time. Store the skewers in the fridge and grill them when you’re ready to serve.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes! You can freeze the marinated chicken. Place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

Conclusion

These Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs are a flavorful and fun way to enjoy chicken with a tropical twist. The sweet and savory marinade, combined with the smoky grilled flavors, makes each bite a delightful treat. They’re quick, easy, and perfect for summer grilling or any time you want a delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy these kebabs with your favorite sides and let the tropical flavors transport you to a beachside paradise!

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