If you are craving a burst of sunshine and tropical vibes right at your dinner table, this Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe is just what you need. Juicy chicken breast marinated in a sweet and tangy blend of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and honey is threaded alongside fresh pineapple chunks and vibrant bell peppers, all grilled to perfection. The result is a colorful, flavorful dish that’s both light and satisfying, perfect for casual family meals or impressing guests at your next barbecue.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh, and vibrant ingredients come together perfectly in this recipe, creating a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Each item plays a crucial role, from tender chicken pieces that soak up the marinade to crisp vegetables adding texture and bursts of natural sweetness.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed: Tender, lean chicken soaks up the marinade beautifully without overpowering the other flavors.
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, cubed: Adds natural sweetness and a juicy contrast to the savory chicken.
- 1 red bell pepper, cubed: Offers crunch and a pop of vibrant color to brighten the skewers.
- 1 green bell pepper, cubed: Adds earthiness and balances the sweetness with subtle bitterness.
- 1 red onion, cubed: Brings mild sharpness and caramelizes wonderfully on the grill.
- Skewers (wooden or metal): Essential for assembling the ingredients and easy grilling; soak wooden ones beforehand to prevent burning.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Creates a savory, umami base for the marinade.
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice: Enhances the tropical sweetness while helping tenderize the chicken.
- 2 tbsp honey: Adds natural sweetness and aids in caramelization during grilling.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Keeps the marinade smooth and helps with grilling.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Packs a punch of aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with ginger.
- 1 tsp ginger, grated: Lends warmth and a subtle zing to brighten the marinade.
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional): Adds a gentle heat for those who like a little kick.
How to Make Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and optionally chili flakes in a bowl. This marinade is the heart of the Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe, delivering a sweet-savory punch with just the right balance of aromatics and spice.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken breast to your bright marinade, making sure every piece is fully coated to absorb those delicious flavors. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but for the best depth of flavor, aim for 1 to 2 hours. This step is key to juicy, flavorful chicken skewers.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Now comes the fun and colorful part. Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, red and green bell peppers, and red onion pieces onto skewers in an alternating pattern. This not only ensures each skewer looks inviting but also guarantees a harmonious mix of tastes and textures in every bite.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill, cooking for about 10 to 12 minutes and turning occasionally. This grilling process caramelizes the honey in the marinade, crisps the vegetables lightly, and cooks the chicken perfectly to an internal temperature of 165°F, locking in juicy goodness.
Step 5: Serve
Once grilled to perfection, serve your Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers hot off the grill. The exciting medley of flavors and colors is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, especially when paired with your favorite sides.
How to Serve Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Consider fresh sprigs of cilantro or chopped green onions for a fresh herbal kick. A squeeze of lime juice over the skewers just before eating amplifies the bright tropical freshness that defines this recipe. Toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top provide a subtle nutty crunch and a lovely finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy white or coconut rice, which absorbs the delicious juices and balances the flavors perfectly. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can add crunch and contrast, or try grilled corn on the cob for an extra smoky note to complement the pineapple’s sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the skewers slicked onto a bed of fresh leafy greens with pineapple wedges on the side. You could also elevate your presentation by serving the skewers on a wooden plank or colorful serving tray, inviting everyone to dig in family-style. For a hands-on party idea, offer small bowls of dipping sauces such as a spicy sriracha mayo or a cool coconut yogurt dip alongside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more, though the vegetables may soften slightly. This makes for a quick lunch or dinner the following day.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe, assemble the skewers but do not grill them. Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling.
Reheating
Reheat leftover grilled skewers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, a quick toss on a hot grill for a few minutes can restore crispness and revive the smoky grilled flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill, offering a richer flavor. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as thighs can cook a bit faster or slower depending on thickness.
Do I have to soak wooden skewers before grilling?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from catching fire or burning while grilling, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable cooking experience.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Definitely! You can cook the skewers under a broiler or on a grill pan indoors. Just watch closely to avoid burning and turn frequently for even cooking.
Is the chili flakes ingredient necessary?
Nope, the chili flakes are optional and add just a hint of spice. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply leave them out and still enjoy the tropical sweetness in full.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes is essential to infuse flavor, but you can safely marinate for up to 2 hours. Beyond this, the acid in the pineapple juice might start to break down the chicken texture too much.
Final Thoughts
This Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe is one of those magical dishes that brightens up any day with its fresh, vibrant flavors and colorful presentation. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining friends, these skewers bring a taste of the tropics straight to your plate in a simple and satisfying way. Give it a try, and prepare to be hooked on this delightful summer-inspired dish.
Print
Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Description
Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender marinated chicken breast pieces grilled alongside sweet pineapple, colorful bell peppers, and red onion. This easy-to-make recipe combines a tangy and slightly sweet soy-pineapple marinade with fresh ingredients, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ treat.
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 the cubed chicken breast pieces into the marinade, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours to enhance the flavor absorption.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken cubes, pineapple, red and green bell peppers, and red onion pieces onto the skewers in an alternating pattern to create a colorful and appetizing presentation.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Grill the skewers for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately while hot. They pair well with a side of rice, fresh salad, or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete meal.
Notes
- For easier grilling, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before assembling to prevent burning.
- Adjust the chili flakes quantity or omit them to control the spice level according to your preference.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the marinade.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- Make sure to monitor the grill temperature to avoid overcooking the chicken and pineapple.
