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These Hawaiian Chicken Kebabs have everything you crave in summer grilling sweet chunks of pineapple juicy marinated chicken and vibrant peppers and onions for pops of color and flavor. The simple marinade delivers bold tropical taste with every bite making these kebabs the highlight of any backyard get together.
After making these at my first neighborhood barbecue everyone kept asking for the recipe I love how quickly they come together for a fun family meal
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: gives lean juicy protein and absorbs the marinade beautifully Choose firm fresh chicken and cut into even pieces for even cooking
- Fresh pineapple: brings natural sweetness and a juicy contrast to the richly marinated chicken Pick a pineapple by tugging gently on a leaf and looking for a golden base
- Red onion: adds mild heat and sweetness as it grills Use firm heavy onions with shiny skin
- Green bell pepper: brings crunch and color Opt for glossy peppers with firm walls for best texture
- Ketchup: provides a thick tomato base for the marinade Go for a brand without high fructose corn syrup if possible
- Dark brown sugar: helps create caramelization on the grill and lends a molasses flavor
- Low sodium soy sauce: gives salty umami flavor without overpowering the dish
- Pineapple juice: boosts the fruitiness of the marinade Use the juice from cutting your fresh pineapple
- Olive oil: ensures everything stays juicy and helps with grilling A good extra virgin olive oil coats the veggies and chicken
- Rice vinegar: offers a bright punch that keeps these kebabs from tasting too heavy
- Garlic and ginger: bring the essential aromatics Choose fresh for maximum flavor or grate as needed
- Sesame oil: finishes the marinade with a nutty undertone A little goes a long way
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl whisk together ketchup dark brown sugar soy sauce pineapple juice two tablespoons of olive oil rice vinegar minced garlic minced ginger and sesame oil Add black pepper and a pinch of salt if you like Taste and adjust seasoning
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken cubes in a large resealable bag Pour most of the marinade over the chicken reserving about half a cup for basting Seal the bag and massage to coat all pieces Refrigerate for at least one hour to let flavors soak in
- Soak the Skewers:
- While the chicken is marinating place wooden skewers in cold water for at least one hour This helps prevent burning on the grill
- Prepare Veggies and Pineapple:
- Dice the red onion green peppers and pineapple into equal size pieces Drizzle with the remaining olive oil Toss to coat and season the vegetables lightly with salt and pepper
- Assemble the Kebabs:
- Thread the marinated chicken pineapple peppers and onion onto the skewers alternating for color and flavor Continue until all ingredients are used
- Preheat and Oil the Grill:
- Heat your grill to medium or about four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Just before adding the kebabs brush the grates well with olive oil to keep sticking to a minimum
- Grill the Kebabs:
- Place the skewers on the hot grill Let them cook undisturbed for five minutes Then brush tops with some reserved marinade Flip the kebabs and brush the other side with more marinade Grill four more minutes or until the chicken is cooked through to one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit
- Serve:
- Transfer kebabs to a platter and serve warm with extra fresh pineapple and your favorite summer sides
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To me the fresh pineapple always steals the show The way it chars slightly on the grill brings out an unbelievable sweetness My sister still talks about the time we made these together and everyone went back for thirds
Storage Tips
Store leftover kebabs in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days Remove food from skewers before chilling for easier storage and reheating For the best flavor reheat gently on the grill or in a hot skillet to restore a touch of char
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find fresh pineapple try using mango or peaches for a similar juicy sweetness Boneless chicken thighs work well and stay moist Green peppers can be swapped for yellow or orange for variety And gluten free soy sauce is an easy swap for those avoiding wheat
Serving Suggestions
These kebabs shine alongside steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice and a refreshing cucumber salad For a full spread add warm pita or grilled flatbread They are also lovely as a topping for a big leafy salad with a honey lime dressing
Cultural Context
Hawaiian inspired grilling celebrates the beautiful mix of tropical fruit with savory meats Pineapple and chicken are a classic duo found at many Hawaiian luaus making this recipe feel like a vacation bite Even if you are not able to grill outdoors they work well under a hot broiler for an island style meal any time of year
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Yes, the marinade can be mixed up to a day in advance and refrigerated until ready to use. This helps the flavors meld together.
- → Is fresh pineapple necessary for the best flavor?
Fresh pineapple provides brighter flavor and firmer texture than canned. Using fresh is recommended for optimal taste.
- → How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in cold water for at least one hour before grilling to keep them from charring or burning.
- → What internal temperature should the chicken reach?
Grill until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) at the center for safe and juicy results.
- → Can I use different vegetables besides peppers and onions?
Yes, try zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added color and variety on your skewers.
- → Do these skewers work well for meal prep?
Absolutely. The grilled components can be stored in an airtight container and reheated for easy lunches or dinners.