If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and brings a taste of the islands straight to your table, the Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful combination of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, crisp bell peppers, and tangy red onion, all marinated in a flavorful mix of soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, and spices, makes for a sensational meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re firing up the grill on a sunny afternoon or craving a tropical escape in your kitchen, this recipe delivers juicy, colorful skewers that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something so satisfying about a few simple ingredients coming together to create such a mouthwatering dish. Each one plays a vital role in crafting the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors, as well as offering vibrant colors and textures that make these skewers irresistible.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed: The lean, tender chicken absorbs the marinade beautifully, ensuring juicy bites every time.
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, cubed: Fresh pineapple provides natural sweetness and a refreshing tropical twist that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
- 1 red bell pepper, cubed: Adds a pop of red color and sweetness that complements the smoky grill flavors.
- 1 green bell pepper, cubed: Brings a crisp texture and bright, slightly bitter contrast to the sweeter ingredients.
- 1 red onion, cubed: Offers a mild sharpness and crunch that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Wooden or metal skewers: Essential for assembling and grilling your skewers with ease.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: The salty base of the marinade that adds umami depth.
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice: Boosts the tropical sweetness and tenderizes the chicken.
- 2 tbsp honey: A touch of natural sweetness to balance the soy sauce’s saltiness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps keep the chicken moist and prevents sticking during grilling.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a savory warmth into the marinade.
- 1 tsp ginger, grated: A little zing that brightens the marinade and pairs beautifully with pineapple.
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional): Adds just the right amount of heat to awaken your taste buds.
How to Make Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes in a bowl. This marinade is the heart of your Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe, combining sweet, salty, and spicy flavors that will soak into every bite of chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Next, add your cubed chicken breast to the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated for maximum flavor. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or if you have time, let it sit for up to 2 hours to deepen those delicious tastes.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Now comes the fun part! Thread the marinated chicken onto your skewers, alternating with pineapple chunks, red and green bell peppers, and red onion. This step not only ensures every skewer has a perfect balance of flavors but also creates an eye-catching colorful display that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates, so nothing sticks. Lay the skewers down and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want that chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F and to get a little caramelization on the pineapple and veggies while ensuring everything is cooked through and juicy.
Step 5: Serve
Serve your Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers hot off the grill with your favorite sides or dipping sauces. These skewers are sure to steal the show at any meal, bringing a bit of island sunshine right to your plate.
How to Serve Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or green onions over your skewers for a fresh burst of herbal flavor and a pop of green that brightens the presentation. A squeeze of lime juice on top right before serving enhances the tropical tang and balances the sweetness.
Side Dishes
Pair these skewers with fluffy coconut rice, a crisp green salad, or some grilled corn on the cob to round out your meal. For a more indulgent twist, a creamy coleslaw or avocado salad also complements the vibrant flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party presentation, serve your Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers on a large platter surrounded by fresh pineapple slices and edible flowers for a Hawaiian luau vibe. You can also place the skewers over a bed of shredded lettuce or rocket greens for a casual yet elegant touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which might be tough), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making for a quick and tasty meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This preserves the flavors and makes a convenient grab-and-go option for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw carefully in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your skewers gently in a skillet on medium heat or pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it may dry out the chicken and veggies.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer a bit more juiciness and flavor in your skewers. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and marinate as directed.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook these in the oven?
No problem at all! You can broil the skewers in your oven on a baking sheet for about 10-12 minutes, turning once, to get that lovely char and cook the chicken thoroughly.
How spicy is this recipe with the chili flakes?
The chili flakes add just a subtle kick that enhances the other flavors without overpowering. If you prefer no heat, simply leave them out for a milder version.
Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time for a party?
Yes! You can assemble the skewers a few hours before grilling and keep them refrigerated. Just make sure to add fresh garnishes after cooking for the best presentation.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. The Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe is fantastic for meal prepping because the flavors only get better after marinating, and you can easily pair them with different sides throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am for you to try this Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe. It’s such a fun, colorful dish that brings a lovely burst of flavor and freshness to your meals. Whether for a weekend barbecue or a simple weeknight dinner, these skewers will make you feel like you’ve just taken a mini vacation. Go ahead, light up your grill and savor every juicy, sweet, and savory bite!
Print
Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for grilling season. Tender chicken breast cubes are marinated in a sweet and tangy blend of soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, garlic, and ginger, then skewered with fresh pineapple chunks, colorful bell peppers, and red onion. Grilled to perfection, these skewers deliver a mouthwatering combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that bring a taste of the islands to your table.
Ingredients
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, cubed
- 1 green bell pepper, cubed
- 1 red onion, cubed
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld, up to 2 hours for the best taste.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, red and green bell peppers, and red onion onto the skewers, alternating ingredients to create a colorful and appetizing display.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is cooked through with a slight char.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and serve hot. These skewers pair wonderfully with rice, fresh salad, or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete tropical meal.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Ensure even-sized pieces of chicken and vegetables for consistent cooking.
- Can be cooked under a broiler if a grill is unavailable, turning frequently to avoid burning.
- Leftover marinade should not be reused or served as a sauce unless boiled to ensure food safety.
