Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are a delightful and vibrant dish that brings the essence of tropical flavors to your table. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, this easy chicken kebab recipe features a delicious marinade made from soy sauce and orange marmalade. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and juicy pineapple makes these skewers a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with a sweet and savory taste that will impress everyone.
• Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have these skewers ready for the grill in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your skewers with your favorite veggies or fruits for a unique twist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a weeknight dinner, these skewers fit right in.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love getting involved in assembling their own skewers, making mealtime fun!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, gather the essential tools needed to ensure smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the perfect cooking method for evenly grilling the chicken and vegetables while adding that smoky flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all marinade ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the chicken.
• Gallon freezer bag: Great for marinating the chicken as it ensures even coverage of flavors without mess.
• Basting brush: Useful for applying olive oil to the grill, preventing sticking while cooking.

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Ingredients

To make these Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, gather the following ingredients:

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 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. Seal it tightly and marinate in the fridge for 2 to 4 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill and Skewers

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Take out the marinated chicken from the fridge and thread it onto skewers. Alternate 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 minutes prior to grilling.

Step 3: Grill and Serve

1. Lightly brush your grill with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Place the skewers on the grill. Cook while turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3. Once cooked, sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving with rice or noodles if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Hawaiian Chicken Skewers!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Serving Hawaiian Chicken Skewers can elevate your meal experience, making it both delicious and visually appealing. These skewers are versatile and pair wonderfully with various sides and garnishes.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic option that absorbs the flavors of the marinade.
• Coconut Rice: Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the skewers beautifully.

With Noodles

• Stir-Fried Noodles: Tossed with vegetables for a colorful, crunchy side.
• Cold Soba Noodles: Dressed in a light soy sauce, offering a refreshing contrast.

Fresh Salads

• Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits like mango and papaya to balance the savory flavors.
• Green Salad: Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette for a healthy crunch.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle on top for added freshness and color.
• Lime Wedges: Serve on the side for a tangy kick that enhances the dish.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Achieving perfect Hawaiian Chicken Skewers is all about the details. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for 4 hours deepens flavor absorption.
• Use Uniform Pieces: Cut chicken and vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Pre-soak Wooden Skewers: Soaking prevents them from burning on the grill and helps maintain moisture.
• Monitor Grill Temperature: Ensure medium-high heat for optimal grilling without drying out the chicken.
• Turn Regularly: Rotate skewers every few minutes to achieve even cooking and prevent sticking.
• Rest Before Serving: Let skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling to retain juices.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Pairing your Hawaiian Chicken Skewers with complementary side dishes can enhance their flavor profile. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add color and health benefits.
2. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, this salad can be mixed with herbs and vegetables.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw balances the sweetness of the skewers perfectly.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs well with savory flavors from the skewers.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, corn adds a nice bite that complements chicken.
6. Fruit Salsa: A blend of pineapple, mango, and jalapeño offers a zesty kick that brightens up each bite.
7. Garlic Bread: Crunchy bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover marinade juices.
8. Cucumber Salad: Fresh cucumbers tossed with vinegar make for a refreshing palate cleanser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken properly can lead to bland skewers. Allow at least 2 hours for flavors to develop.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too many ingredients onto one skewer can prevent even cooking. Alternate chicken with veggies and fruits for better heat distribution.
• Using dry chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can dry it out. Aim for 8-10 minutes of grilling and check for doneness frequently.
• Ignoring grill temperature: Grilling on low heat won’t give you those lovely char marks. Preheat your grill to medium-high before adding the skewers.
• Forgetting to soak wooden skewers: If using wooden skewers, failing to soak them can cause burning. Soak for at least 20-30 minutes before grilling.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

• Place cooled skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place skewers on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth, cover, and steam for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Chicken Skewers.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute turkey, beef, or lamb if you prefer.

How do I make Hawaiian Chicken Skewers spicy?

Add diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the marinade for an extra kick.

Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers up to a day in advance. Just refrigerate until ready to grill.

What sides pair well with Hawaiian Chicken Skewers?

These skewers go great with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. Grilled vegetables also make an excellent side.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor from the soy and orange marmalade marinade. This recipe is versatile; feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or fruits. It’s perfect for family dinners or outdoor gatherings—give it a try today!