Description
Delicious Hawaiian Chicken Skewers featuring tender marinated chicken, colorful bell peppers, red onion, and sweet pineapple chunks grilled to perfection. This tropical-inspired recipe combines a flavorful marinade with fresh ingredients for a quick and easy meal perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
- ¼ cup pineapple juice (freshly squeezed or from a can)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 medium red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, olive oil, rice vinegar, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined and smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken cubes in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the chicken ensuring it is fully submerged.
- Coat the Chicken: Seal the bag and gently massage it to evenly distribute the marinade over all the chicken pieces for maximum flavor penetration.
- Refrigerate: Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, turning occasionally to ensure even marination.
- Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear and cook chicken through safely.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, red onion, and pineapple chunks alternately onto the skewers to create a colorful and balanced presentation.
- Prepare the Grill Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates using a brush or paper towel to prevent the skewers from sticking during cooking.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the assembled skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally to evenly char and cook all sides until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and vegetables are tender with slight char marks.
- Rest the Skewers: Remove the cooked skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute for optimal flavor and moistness.
- Serve: Serve the skewers immediately, optionally accompanied by extra pineapple chunks, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari sauce.
- Soaking wooden skewers in water before grilling prevents them from burning.
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked.
- Customize the vegetables or fruit to your preference, such as adding zucchini or mango.
