Island Paradise: Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe

Sizzling summer days call for a mouthwatering tropical Hawaiian chicken skewers recipe that bursts with vibrant flavors and sunshine-inspired zest.

Sweet and tangy marinades dance across tender chicken pieces, promising a culinary escape to island paradise.

Juicy chunks of protein absorb a perfect blend of pineapple, soy, and aromatic spices.

Grilling transforms these skewers into a charred, caramelized delight that captures the essence of beachside dining.

Each bite delivers a symphony of tropical notes that transport you far from ordinary meal routines.

Weekend barbecues and backyard gatherings will never be the same once you master these irresistible skewers.

Fire up the grill and get ready to savor a taste of Hawaiian magic on your plate.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 40 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Calories: 364 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients for Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

• Ketchup: Adds tangy sweetness and helps bind flavors together, choose a rich, smooth variety for best results.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: Brings zesty tropical heat, look for authentic Southeast Asian brands for genuine flavor.
• Soy Sauce: Deepens umami profile, select low-sodium version for better control of saltiness.
• Garlic: Provides aromatic intensity, fresh cloves deliver more robust flavor than pre-minced versions.
• Ginger: Contributes bright, spicy undertone, fresh root offers more vibrant taste compared to dried.
• Salt: Balances and amplifies overall taste, use sea salt for cleaner mineral notes.

• Chicken: Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender, lean protein, ensure fresh and evenly cut pieces.

• Pineapple Chunks: Introduces sweet-tart tropical essence, choose ripe, golden pineapple for maximum juiciness.
• Red Bell Pepper: Adds crisp texture and vibrant color, select firm peppers with glossy skin.
• Onion: Provides subtle sharpness and caramelized notes, white or red varieties work perfectly.

• Bamboo Skewers: Creates traditional grilling experience, soak in water to prevent burning.
• Metal Skewers: Offers durable, reusable alternative with even heat distribution.

Skewering Tools for Hawaiian Chicken

• Large bowl: Perfect for mixing marinade and marinating chicken.
• Cutting board: Essential for chopping chicken and vegetables.
• Sharp knife: Needed to cut chicken and bell peppers into even pieces.
• Bamboo or metal skewers: Critical for assembling and grilling chicken and vegetables.
• Measuring spoons: Helpful for accurate marinade ingredient measurements.
• Grill or grill pan: Required for cooking skewers with even heat.
• Tongs: Useful for turning skewers and handling food safely during grilling.
• Brush: Handy for glazing skewers with reserved marinade.

How to Grill Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

• Flavor Fusion

Craft a zesty marinade blending tangy ketchup, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of salt. This tropical concoction will transform ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering delight.

• Chicken Preparation

Slice chicken into bite-sized pieces and bathe them in the vibrant marinade. Set aside a portion of the sauce for later glazing. Let the chicken soak up the flavors for at least half an hour in the refrigerator.

• Skewer Magic

Grab bamboo skewers and prep them with a quick boil. Alternate threading marinated chicken, juicy pineapple chunks, crisp red bell peppers, and sweet onion pieces onto the sticks.

• Grilling Adventure

Fire up the grill or grill pan to medium heat. Cook the skewers, turning occasionally, until the chicken achieves a golden-brown exterior and is thoroughly cooked. Brush with reserved marinade for an extra flavor punch.

• Delicious Rest

Remove skewers from heat and allow them to rest briefly. This final moment lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and packed with tropical goodness.

Marinade Tips for Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally, guaranteeing perfectly cooked and safe-to-eat skewers every single time.
• Replace bell peppers with zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to customize the skewers according to seasonal availability or personal preference.
• Bake skewers in a preheated 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or use a cast-iron skillet for indoor cooking when outdoor grilling isn't possible, maintaining the same delicious flavor profile.
• Prepare extra skewers and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making quick and delicious lunch or dinner options throughout the week.

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

• Serve with Island Rice: Pair skewers with coconut or jasmine rice to enhance the tropical flavor profile and create a complete meal.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions over the skewers to add a bright, fresh element and increase visual appeal.
• Create a Dipping Station: Offer extra sweet chili sauce, pineapple salsa, or a tangy yogurt sauce on the side for guests to customize their eating experience.
• Plate with Colorful Sides: Add a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables to balance the sweet and savory skewers, making the dish more nutritionally rounded.

Best Storage Method for Chicken Skewers

• Refrigerate Wisely: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Quick Reheat Tricks: Warm skewers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain juicy chicken and prevent drying out.
• Freeze for Later: Pack cooled skewers in freezer-safe containers, separating layers with parchment paper. Frozen skewers stay delicious for up to 2 months.
• Meal Prep Magic: Prepare marinade and chop ingredients in advance, allowing you to assemble skewers quickly during busy weeknights for stress-free cooking.

Succulent Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe

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4.5 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Succulent tropical hawaiian chicken skewers combine sweet and tangy flavors from island-inspired marinades. Grilled pineapple and tender chicken create a perfect balance of caramelized goodness you’ll savor with each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1½ pounds (750 g) chicken thighs, skinless, boneless
• 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cubed into 2–3 cm chunks
• 2 red bell peppers, seeded and cubed into 2–3 cm chunks
• 1 red onion, cubed into 2–3 cm chunks
• 1½ cups ketchup
• ¾ cup sweet chili sauce
• ⅓ cup soy sauce / tamari sauce
• 2 tsps crushed garlic
• 2 tsps finely minced ginger
• 1–2 tsps salt

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Instructions

1. Marinade Preparation: Whisk ketchup, chili sauce, soy sauce, crushed garlic, minced ginger, and salt in a mixing bowl until seamlessly blended, creating a flavor-packed liquid base.
2. Chicken Marination: Cut chicken into consistent bite-sized pieces and transfer to a spacious container. Divide marinade, reserving one-third for glazing and coating chicken with the remaining portion. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 24 hours, allowing deep flavor infusion.
3. Skewer Assembly: Soak bamboo skewers in boiling water to prevent charring or use metal alternatives. Artfully thread marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, red bell pepper, and onion onto skewers, constructing a visually appealing and balanced composition.
4. Grilling Process: Ignite grill or grill pan to medium heat. Carefully position skewers, rotating periodically to achieve uniform caramelization and thorough chicken cooking. Intermittently brush reserved marinade to intensify flavor and develop a lustrous exterior.
5. Finishing Touch: Verify chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) with a golden-brown appearance. Remove from heat, allowing a brief 5-minute resting period to redistribute internal juices and maximize tenderness before serving.

Notes

• Marinate Wisely: Reserve one-third of the marinade for glazing to prevent cross-contamination and ensure food safety while maximizing flavor intensity.
• Soak Skewers Strategically: Submerge bamboo skewers in boiling water for 10 minutes to prevent burning and protect against potential charring during grilling.
• Check Chicken Carefully: Use a meat thermometer to confirm internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), guaranteeing safe and perfectly cooked chicken every time.
• Rest and Redistribute: Allow skewers to rest for 5 minutes after grilling, letting juices redistribute and ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor retention.

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 364
• Sugar: 22 g
• Sodium: 1170 mg
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 61 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg