Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

This recipe for Hawaiian Chicken Skewers is a delightful and easy way to bring tropical flavors to your table. With a sweet and savory marinade of soy sauce and orange marmalade, these chicken kebabs are perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, or even a weeknight dinner. Juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and fresh pineapple make this dish not only appealing but also nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe involves minimal prep work and uses simple ingredients, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Bursting with Flavor: The unique combination of soy sauce and orange marmalade creates a mouthwatering marinade that enhances the chicken’s taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these skewers with rice or noodles, or enjoy them as appetizers for your next gathering.
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the vegetables and pineapple not only make the dish eye-catching but also add nutritional benefits.
• Quick Cooking Time: Once marinated, the skewers cook in about 10 minutes on the grill, perfect for busy evenings.

Tools and Preparation

To make Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly during preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Grill
• Gallon freezer bag
• Small bowl
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: These are crucial for holding the chicken and vegetables together while they cook evenly on the grill.
• Grill: A good grill provides the high heat needed to achieve that perfect char on your skewers.
• Gallon freezer bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken without creating a mess; it allows the flavors to infuse deeply.
• Basting brush: Useful for applying olive oil to prevent sticking on the grill and enhancing flavor.

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

• 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 Vegetables & Fruit

• 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 Finishing Touches

• 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 and marinate in the fridge for 2-4 hours for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers alternating with pieces of purple onion, red bell pepper, and pineapple. Ensure even spacing for optimal cooking.
3. If using wooden skewers, remember they should be soaked in water for 20-30 minutes before grilling.

Step 3: Grill Your Skewers

1. Brush the grill lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Place the assembled skewers on the grill.
3. Cook while turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through, which should take about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over your skewers before serving.
2. Pair with rice or noodles if desired for a complete meal.

Enjoy your delicious Hawaiian Chicken Skewers at your next meal!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Hawaiian Chicken Skewers make for a delightful meal that’s both vibrant and flavorful. These skewers can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Rice

• White or brown rice complements the sweetness of the marinade, creating a balanced dish.

Fresh Salad

• A side of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch to your meal.

Grilled Vegetables

• Charred zucchini, asparagus, or corn complement the flavors of the skewers perfectly.

Tropical Fruit Salsa

• A salsa made from mango, kiwi, and lime brings an additional fruity kick that pairs well with the chicken.

Noodles

• Serve with soba or rice noodles tossed in a light sesame dressing for a hearty alternative.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

To achieve succulent and flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, follow these essential tips.

• Marinate Longer: Letting chicken marinate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) enhances the flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the taste of your skewers significantly.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: Soaking prevents wooden skewers from burning on the grill, ensuring they hold together while cooking.
• Preheat the Grill: A hot grill helps create those beautiful char marks and seals in juices.
• Turn Occasionally: Rotate skewers during cooking for even grilling and to prevent dryness.
• Check Temperature: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Complement your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers with these delicious side dishes that enhance their tropical flavors.

1. Coconut Rice: Fluffy rice cooked in coconut milk adds a creamy and sweet touch.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw provides crunch and balances out the sweetness of the skewers.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled to perfection makes a perfect summer side.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light salad mixed with veggies and herbs offers a nutritious boost.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with savory chicken skewers.
6. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked vegetables add color and health benefits to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers even more delicious.

• Over-marinating: Marinating the chicken for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Stick to 2-4 hours for optimal flavor and tenderness.
• Skipping the soaking: If using wooden skewers, not soaking them can result in burnt sticks. Soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling.
• Crowding the skewers: Packing the skewers too tightly prevents even cooking. Leave some space between each ingredient for better heat circulation.
• Ignoring grill temperature: Cooking on a grill that is too hot or too cool can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for medium-high heat for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Forgetting to baste: Not basting with olive oil can cause the chicken to stick to the grill. Brush your skewers lightly with oil before grilling.
• Skipping garnishes: Not adding fresh herbs like cilantro can make your dish taste flat. Always finish with a sprinkle of herbs for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

• Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Hawaiian Chicken Skewers that may help clarify any doubts you might have.

How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Skewers more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like chili flakes or lime juice to the marinade, or trying different fruits such as mango or peach.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can easily substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or lamb for a different twist on Hawaiian Chicken Skewers.

What should I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair well with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. Feel free to add grilled vegetables on the side as well!

Can I prepare Hawaiian Chicken Skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.

How do I know when my chicken is done?

The internal temperature of cooked chicken should reach at least 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. This recipe is versatile—feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or different marinades. It’s perfect for family dinners or summer BBQs, so give it a try today!