Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

As the weather warms up, the idea of grilling becomes more appealing. Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are the perfect dish to bring a bit of island flavor to your backyard. These skewers are not only delicious but are also vibrant and festive, making them ideal for gatherings or a family weekend meal. Here’s how to make them.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1½ cups ketchup
• ¾ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1/3 cup soy sauce or tamari sauce
• 2 tsp crushed garlic
• 2 tsp finely minced ginger
• 1-2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

For the Skewers:

• 750 g (about 1½ lbs) skinless, boneless chicken thighs
• 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

Directions

1. Marinade Preparation: Begin by making the marinade. In a medium bowl, mix together ketchup, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, crushed garlic, minced ginger, and salt until well combined.
2. Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large bowl. Pour two-thirds of the marinade over the chicken, reserving one-third for later use. Ensure the chicken is well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Skewer Assembly: While the chicken is marinating, soak your bamboo skewers in boiling water for 10 minutes to prevent burning (metal skewers can be used as an alternative). Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, red bell pepper pieces, and red onion onto the skewers in an appealing pattern.
4. Cooking: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Turn the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the skewers with the reserved marinade to add an extra layer of flavor.
5. Rest: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more succulent.

Serving Suggestions

These Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers are best served fresh off the grill. They pair wonderfully with a side of coconut rice or a fresh salad to keep the meal light and summery. For an authentic touch, consider a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime over the skewers before serving.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 310 kcal per serving
• Servings: Makes 4 servings

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

These skewers are a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create a feast for the senses. Enjoy the taste of Hawaii in your own home with these easy-to-make, irresistibly delicious Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers. Happy grilling!