Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Craving a taste of the tropics right in your own kitchen? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Hawaiian Chicken. Picture juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and a tangy sauce that will transport your taste buds to an island paradise. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a mini vacation on a plate, perfect for turning a mundane weeknight dinner into a culinary escape.

The magic of Hawaiian Chicken lies in the vibrant colors, the burst of flavors, and the irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. With tender chicken breast, caramelized pineapple, and a savory-sweet sauce, every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes. Even the pickiest eaters, like my friend’s “pineapple-hating husband,” can’t resist coming back for seconds. Discover the secret behind this beloved recipe that has the power to convert even the most skeptical diners into fans.

Whether you’re looking to spice up your weekly meal rotation or impress guests at a dinner party, this recipe is a winner. From the perfect balance of sweet and savory to the easy cooking tips that ensure success every time, Hawaiian Chicken is a foolproof way to bring a taste of sunshine to your table. So, grab your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the Hawaiian islands with this mouthwatering dish that promises to brighten up any day.

Quick Benefits

• Lean Protein Source: Chicken breast provides a lean protein base that remains juicy and flavorful, perfect for absorbing the delicious sauce.
• Tropical Sweetness: Pineapple chunks add a signature tropical sweetness that caramelizes during cooking, enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.
• Colorful and Crunchy: The red bell pepper contributes color contrast and a slight crunch, intensifying in sweetness during cooking, adding a candy-like element to the dish.
• Balanced Umami: Soy sauce adds essential umami depth, balancing the sweetness and adding complexity to every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers Recipe

• Escape to the Tropics: Let the juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and tangy sauce transport you to a sunny island with every bite.
• Family Favorite: This dish has become a go-to weeknight meal for many families, loved by both picky eaters and food enthusiasts.
• Versatile Proteins: Whether you prefer chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu, this recipe accommodates various protein choices without compromising on flavor.
• Balanced Flavors: The perfect blend of sweet pineapple, savory soy sauce, aromatic ginger, and garlic creates a harmonious taste profile that pleases every palate.
• Colorful and Aromatic: The burst of colors and aromas will make your kitchen feel like a vibrant paradise, drawing everyone to the dinner table, even the pickiest eaters.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward cooking instructions and common ingredients, this recipe is easy to make, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience.
• Meal Prep and Storage Friendly: Plan ahead with easy meal prep options, and store leftovers for quick and delicious future meals, saving you time and effort during busy days.

Ingredients for Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

For the Stir Fry

• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 can (15 ounces) pineapple chunks, juice and fruit separated
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, diced

For the Sauce

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• Pineapple juice from can (about 1 cup)
• ⅓ cup chicken broth
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish

• Green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds

How to Make Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the sauce

In a medium mixing bowl, mix together the reserved pineapple juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes, if desired. Whisk until sugar dissolves and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add olive oil, coat the pan, then add diced chicken. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is almost cooked through and starts to brown.

Step 3: Add vegetables

Add diced red bell pepper to skillet with chicken. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until pepper softens slightly but remains crisp.

Step 4: Add pineapple

Stir in drained pineapple chunks with chicken and bell pepper in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until pineapple is heated through and starts to caramelize.

Step 5: Add sauce and simmer

Transfer the sauce mixture to the skillet. Stir well to coat all ingredients. Simmer gently for approximately 5 minutes to meld flavors and slightly reduce the sauce.

Step 6: Thicken the sauce

In a small bowl, combine cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Gradually stir the slurry into the simmering sauce until it reaches the desired consistency. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Take off the heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve over rice or a side dish.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Hawaiian Chicken dish, it is best to refrigerate any leftovers promptly. Place the chicken and sauce in airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it is recommended to use a skillet with a splash of water to revive the sauce and prevent the chicken from becoming rubbery. This method helps maintain the dish’s flavors and textures, ensuring a delicious meal even when enjoyed as leftovers.

For meal prep purposes, you can prepare components of the dish ahead of time to streamline future cooking. Chop the chicken and vegetables, mix the sauce, and store them separately in the refrigerator. This approach allows for quick assembly on busy nights, making it convenient to enjoy this flavorful Hawaiian chicken without the lengthy preparation time. Additionally, for long-term storage, consider freezing the sauce and uncooked chicken separately. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking fresh to have a delicious meal ready in no time, making it a great option for emergency dinners or planned make-ahead meals.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian or vegan twist on this Hawaiian Chicken recipe, consider swapping the boneless skinless chicken breast with firm tofu. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, cut it into cubes, and lightly coat with cornstarch before searing. The tofu will absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully and provide a plant-based protein option that pairs well with the sweet and savory elements of the dish.

If you prefer a different protein option, such as pork or shrimp, feel free to substitute the chicken with thinly sliced pork tenderloin or quick-cooking shrimp. Pork tenderloin can be cooked similarly to the chicken, ensuring it is sliced thinly and cooked just until tender. Shrimp only needs to be cooked until pink, making it a quick seafood alternative that pairs wonderfully with the pineapple and sauce. These protein variations offer a versatile twist to the recipe while maintaining the delicious flavors that make this dish a family favorite.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, consider setting up a DIY Hawaiian Chicken bowl station for a casual dinner party or family meal. Arrange bowls of fluffy white rice, tender Hawaiian chicken, and an assortment of colorful toppings such as sesame seeds, chopped green onions, crispy fried shallots, and sliced red chilies. Let everyone customize their bowls with their favorite toppings for a personalized and delicious experience.

For a tropical twist on traditional tacos, fill warm corn or flour tortillas with the flavorful Hawaiian chicken mixture. Top with a refreshing pineapple salsa made with diced pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut for added texture and sweetness. These Hawaiian chicken tacos are sure to be a hit at your next Taco Tuesday or summer gathering.

FAQs for Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Question?

What can I use as a substitute for chicken in this Hawaiian chicken recipe?

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How can I make this recipe spicier?

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Can I make this Hawaiian chicken recipe ahead of time?

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How should I store leftovers of this dish?

Conclusion

As you wrap up your culinary journey with this delectable Hawaiian Chicken recipe, remember that the joy of cooking lies in the shared moments around the table. Whether it’s a spontaneous gathering with friends or a cozy family dinner, this dish has the power to bring everyone together with its vibrant flavors and tropical charm. Embrace the simplicity and versatility of this recipe, making it your own with personalized tweaks and creative variations to suit any palate.

The allure of Hawaiian Chicken goes beyond its delicious taste – it embodies the essence of comfort food with a touch of exotic flair, offering a delightful escape from the ordinary. So, let your kitchen be your island getaway, where every bite is a reminder of sunny days and warm breezes. Share this recipe with loved ones, create memories, and savor the moments of togetherness that good food always brings. Cheers to many more delightful culinary adventures, and may the spirit of Hawaiian Chicken infuse your home with warmth and happiness!

Tropical Hawaiian Chicken Skewers

Tender Hawaiian chicken with sweet pineapple and savory sauce delivers a burst of tropical flavors that transports you to a mini vacation on a plate.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time20 Minutes

Total Time30 Minutes

CuisineAmerican-Hawaiian Fusion

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry

• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 can (15 ounces) pineapple chunks, juice and fruit separated
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, diced

For the Sauce

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• Pineapple juice from can (about 1 cup)
• ⅓ cup chicken broth
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish

• Green onions, chopped
• Sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Prepare the sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, mix together the reserved pineapple juice, chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes, if desired. Whisk until sugar dissolves and set aside.
2. Cook the chicken: 1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add olive oil, coat the pan, then add diced chicken. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is almost cooked through and starts to brown.
3. Add vegetables: Add diced red bell pepper to skillet with chicken. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until pepper softens slightly but remains crisp.
4. Add pineapple: Stir in drained pineapple chunks with chicken and bell pepper in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until pineapple is heated through and starts to caramelize.
5. Add sauce and simmer: Transfer the sauce mixture to the skillet. Stir well to coat all ingredients. Simmer gently for approximately 5 minutes to meld flavors and slightly reduce the sauce.
6. Thicken the sauce: In a small bowl, combine cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Gradually stir the slurry into the simmering sauce until it reaches the desired consistency. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
7. Garnish and serve: Take off the heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve over rice or a side dish.