Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are a delightful dish that brings the tropical flavors of the islands to your dining table. With a sweet and savory marinade of soy sauce and orange marmalade, these skewers are perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or a simple weeknight dinner. The combination of juicy chicken and fresh vegetables makes this recipe not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Marinate the chicken in advance and grill them in just 10 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: The soy and orange marmalade marinade ensures every bite is packed with taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy the skewers on their own or serve them alongside rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love these colorful chicken skewers, making it an easy way to get them to eat healthy!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for summer barbecues, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help you create perfectly grilled kebabs with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor while cooking your skewers to perfection.
• Skewers: Hold the ingredients together, making it easy to flip and cook evenly.
• Gallon freezer bag: Perfect for marinating the chicken without mess and ensuring even coating.
• Basting brush: Useful for applying olive oil to prevent sticking while grilling.

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 Assembling 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
• 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 and marinate in the fridge for 2-4 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with pieces of purple onion, red bell pepper, and pineapple.
3. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have soaked in water for at least 20-30 minutes prior to grilling.
4. Brush your grill lightly with olive oil before placing the skewers on it.

Step 3: Grill the Skewers

1. Cook the skewers on medium-high heat, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).
2. Once cooked, sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers as a vibrant main course that captures summertime flavors!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are a delicious and versatile dish that can elevate any meal. They pair well with various sides, making them perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

With Rice

• Serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful marinade.

With Noodles

• Pair the skewers with soba or rice noodles tossed in a light soy sauce dressing for an Asian-inspired twist.

As Part of a Salad

• Cut the skewers into smaller pieces and toss them into a fresh salad with greens, cucumbers, and a citrus vinaigrette.

On Appetizer Platters

• Use the skewers as finger food at parties. They are easy to grab and enjoy, making them perfect for gatherings.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce for added flavor.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Complement the skewers with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a colorful presentation and added nutrition.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

To make your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers even better, follow these simple tips that will enhance flavor and texture.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for 4 hours or overnight will deepen the flavors.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will elevate your dish’s taste and appearance.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
• Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the skewers on it; this helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and locks in moisture.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between each piece on the skewer so they cook evenly and get that perfect char.
• Baste While Grilling: Brush some olive oil or extra marinade over the skewers while grilling to keep them moist and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Pair your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers with sides that complement their tropical flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Coconut Rice
   A fragrant rice cooked with coconut milk adds creaminess and sweetness that pairs beautifully with chicken.

2. Grilled Pineapple Slices
   Caramelized pineapple slices enhance the tropical theme while adding an extra burst of flavor.

3. Asian Slaw
   Crunchy cabbage slaw dressed in sesame oil provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts well with warm chicken skewers.

4. Quinoa Salad
   A colorful quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers protein and fiber while keeping things light and healthy.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet, roasted potatoes bring out natural sugars that balance savory flavors of the chicken.

6. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled corn brushed with herb butter makes for a fun, hands-on side dish everyone loves.

7. Zucchini Noodles
   Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles serve as a low-carb alternative to pasta while absorbing flavors from marinades.

8. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad featuring tropical fruits like mangoes and papayas makes for a vibrant accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for perfect skewers.

• Incorrect Marinating Time – Marinating the chicken for too short a time may leave it bland. Aim for at least 2 hours, but no more than 4 hours for optimal flavor.
• Using Dry Skewers – If you’re using wooden skewers, soaking them in water is essential. This prevents them from burning on the grill and helps keep your chicken moist.
• Overcrowding the Skewers – Overloading skewers can lead to uneven cooking. Leave enough space between ingredients so heat can circulate properly.
• Ignoring Temperature Control – Cooking on too high heat can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Medium-high heat is ideal for even cooking.
• Forgetting to Oil the Grill – Not brushing your grill with olive oil can cause food to stick and tear when removing. Always oil your grill lightly before cooking.
• Skipping Garnish – A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds flavor and color. Don’t skip this step as it enhances the dish’s presentation and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Hawaiian Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

• To freeze, wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored 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 or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Arrange skewers in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Sauté the skewers for about 5-7 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Hawaiian Chicken Skewers that might help you out!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, lamb, or turkey for different flavors.

What should I serve with Hawaiian Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair well with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative!

How do I ensure my chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Are Hawaiian Chicken Skewers good for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well and reheat nicely, making them perfect for meal prepping.

Can I make these skewers vegetarian?

Yes! Use firm tofu or mushrooms as a protein alternative along with plenty of veggies.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite vegetables or sauces. Whether you serve them at a family gathering or enjoy them as a weeknight dinner, they are sure to impress. Give this easy recipe a try today!