Tropical Paradise on a Stick (Hawaiian Chicken Skewers)

Ahoy, flavor adventurers! Get ready to set sail on a culinary journey that whisks you straight to a sun-soaked beach with these dazzling Hawaiian Chicken Skewers. Every bite is bursting with vibrant flavors, thanks to a delightful marinade of soy sauce and sweet orange marmalade, perfectly complemented by juicy chunks of chicken, fresh pineapple, and colorful veggies. Trust me, these skewers are not just food; they’re a tropical escape that will have you dreaming of sandy shores and swaying palm trees.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are pure magic on a stick! Let’s take a peek at why you’re going to adore this recipe:

– Big, Bold Flavors: The sweet-salty combo of orange marmalade and soy sauce will make your taste buds do a happy dance!
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for BBQs, family dinners, or just a fun night in, everyone will be reaching for seconds!
– Flexible & Fast: Easy to prep, quick to cook, and you can customize them with your favorite veggies!
– Make-Ahead Magic: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for a flavor explosion with minimal effort!

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to gather some fabulous ingredients that will bring this tropical delight to life! The secret star here is the orange marmalade—it adds a sweet zing that complements the savory chicken beautifully.

Main Ingredients:

– 3 skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 3 tablespoons orange marmalade
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 12 skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 20 minutes)
– 1 purple onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Olive oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

The magic of Hawaiian Chicken Skewers lies in their versatility! Here are a few fun ways to shake things up:

– Go Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative like tamari.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in shrimp or cubed tofu for a delightful twist.
– Make it Spicier: Add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes to the marinade for a kick!
– Swap the Dressing: Try a sweet teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
– Colorful Additions: Mix in other vibrant veggies like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for a rainbow of flavor!

How to Make Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Ready to bring these Hawaiian Chicken Skewers to life? Follow these easy steps to make your tropical feast a reality!

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a gallon freezer bag, add the chicken chunks. In a small bowl, combine the chicken broth, orange marmalade, soy sauce, ground ginger, and garlic powder. Mix it until smooth, then pour the marinade into the bag with the chicken. Seal it up and let the magic happen in the fridge for 2-4 hours!

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

Fire up your grill to medium-high heat! While that heats up, grab your skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for 20-30 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Once your chicken is marinated to perfection, it’s time to thread the chicken onto the skewers! Alternate the chicken pieces with purple onion, red bell pepper, and fresh pineapple chunks for a colorful display.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Brush your grill lightly with olive oil to keep things from sticking. Now, place the skewers on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has those beautiful grill marks, roughly 8-10 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the skewers with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color, then serve them up with a side of fluffy rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

– Don’t Rush the Marinating: For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for the full 4 hours if you can!
– Skewer Smart: Ensure your veggies and chicken are cut to similar sizes for even cooking on the grill.
– Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on the skewers to avoid burning—too much heat can dry out the chicken!
– Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to switch up the ingredients to suit your taste!

How to Serve Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Garnishes

Elevate your skewers with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, or even some zesty lime wedges for a fresh kick.

Side Dishes

Pair these delicious skewers with coconut rice, a refreshing green salad, or grilled corn on the cob to really bring out those tropical vibes!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the skewers on a vibrant platter, or for a fun twist, present them in individual cups for a BBQ buffet style. They’d also make a fantastic addition to lunchboxes for a bright midday treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Hawaiian Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just beware — they may vanish quickly!

Freezing

If you have extra skewers (lucky you!), freeze the cooked ones in an airtight container. They can be kept frozen for up to a month!

Reheating

For the best results, reheat the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, or pop them on the grill for a few minutes to bring back that delicious char!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness—just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all, but feel free to add chili flakes or jalapeños for a spicy kick if you like!

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! Marinate the chicken the night before for a flavor-packed dinner the next day.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply substitute the soy sauce with gluten-free tamari to make this dish a gluten-free delight.

Final Thoughts

With these Hawaiian Chicken Skewers, you’re not just making dinner; you’re creating a mini-vacation right in your kitchen! The blend of sweet and savory flavors will have you and your family coming back for more, and the colorful presentation is sure to impress. So grab your skewers, channel your inner grill master, and let this tropical recipe take center stage at your next meal. Happy grilling! 🌺🏖️