Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe
A Sweet and Savory Delight for Every Occasion
The Hawaiian Chicken Skewers recipe brings together the vibrant flavors of tropical fruits and savory marinated chicken, making it an irresistible appetizer or snack. With tender, juicy chicken pieces paired with a sweet and tangy sauce, this dish is sure to transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Hawaii. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, enjoying a weekend with family, or simply craving something unique, these skewers are the perfect choice. And the best part? You can whip them up in less than 30 minutes!
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts (cubed) | 2 cups |
| Tomato Ketchup | 1/3 cup |
| Brown Sugar (Demerara Sugar) | 1/4 cup |
| Soy sauce | 1/3 cup |
| White vinegar | 1/3 cup |
| Pineapple juice | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | As per taste |
| Sesame (Gingelly) Oil | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 6 cloves |
| Ginger (minced) | 1 tbsp |
| Whole Black Peppercorns (freshly ground) | 3 tbsp |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum, cubed) | 1 |
| Yellow Bell Pepper (Capsicum, cubed) | 1 |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum, cubed) | 1 |
| Pineapple (cubed) | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutritional Info | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Sodium | 560mg |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 15g |
Preparation Time: 15 Minutes
Cooking Time: 15 Minutes (plus marination time)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by preparing the marinade. In a small food processor or using a mortar and pestle, coarsely grind the garlic and ginger to create a fragrant paste. Transfer this paste into a mixing bowl.
Now, to this ginger-garlic mixture, add the tomato ketchup, soy sauce, white vinegar, pineapple juice, brown sugar, sesame oil, freshly ground black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined, forming a thick, glossy marinade.
Add the cubed chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is coated thoroughly. Cover the bowl with a tight-fitting lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. For best results, marinate the chicken overnight for a richer flavor profile.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Pineapple
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables and pineapple. Cube the red, yellow, and green bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Cut the pineapple into chunks of similar size. Place all the cubed vegetables and pineapple into a bowl, drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the ingredients gently to ensure they are evenly coated.
Step 3: Soak the Skewers
To prevent the wooden skewers from burning during cooking, soak them in cold water for about 20 minutes before using them. This simple step ensures your skewers stay intact and don’t char while cooking.
Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Now, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, and pineapple chunks onto the soaked skewers, alternating between the chicken and vegetables. You can be as creative as you like with the arrangement, but make sure not to overcrowd the skewers to allow the heat to circulate evenly.
Step 5: Cook the Skewers
Place the assembled skewers onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. While the skewers are baking, brush a little of the remaining marinade or olive oil over the chicken to keep it moist.
Once the chicken is fully cooked, the juices should run clear, and the vegetables should be tender and slightly charred.
Step 6: Broil for a Crispy Finish
For a crispy and slightly caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil mode. Broil the skewers for an additional 10 minutes, turning them every 3 to 4 minutes to ensure they get an even golden-brown color. Be careful not to overcook, as this can result in dry chicken.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once your skewers are perfectly cooked and broiled, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These Hawaiian Chicken Skewers pair wonderfully with a side of crispy whole wheat flatbread with spinach pesto and roasted vegetables, along with a drizzle of homemade mayonnaise for extra indulgence.
Take a bite, close your eyes, and imagine the tropical breezes of Hawaii, as these sweet and savory skewers bring the island flavors right to your table!
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Chicken Skewers:
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Marination Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful the skewers will be. If you’re short on time, even 1 hour of marination will make a noticeable difference.
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Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to swap out the bell peppers for other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes, based on your preferences.
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Grill Option: If you’re using a grill, the smoky flavor will enhance the Hawaiian vibe. Just be sure to keep an eye on the skewers to avoid burning.
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Tropical Twist: For an extra tropical kick, add some coconut milk or lime juice to the marinade to complement the pineapple and give it an exotic flair.
Serve with:
- Crispy Whole Wheat Flatbread with Spinach Pesto & Roasted Vegetables
- Homemade Mayonnaise or Spicy Pineapple Sauce
Conclusion
This Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a feast for the eyes. With a balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, these skewers are bound to become your go-to dish for any celebration or casual meal. Easy to prepare yet impressively flavorful, they are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the sunshine and tropical vibes, no matter where you are!
