Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

introduction

As the sun sets and the smell of grilled chicken fills the air, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia. In my childhood, weekends were often spent in the backyard with family, where the aroma of teriyaki chicken skewers sizzling on the grill brought everyone together. This recipe is not just about delicious food; it’s about joy, laughter, and shared moments. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or simply craving a tasty meal, these Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of summer. What’s special about this recipe is the combination of sweet and savory that comes together beautifully, creating a dish that will surely please everyone.

why make this recipe

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, they are easy to prepare and perfect for any gathering. The marinade infuses the chicken with flavor, ensuring each bite is juicy and satisfying. This recipe is also versatile, allowing you to customize it with different veggies or sides. Plus, grilling adds a delightful smoky char that elevates the dish. It’s a meal that is both simple and impressive, making it an ideal option whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook.

how to make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. chicken thighs (or breasts) (cut into 1″ cubes)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 cup water
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tbsp fresh ginger (minced)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• 8 skewers
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Chopped green onion (for garnish)

Directions

1. First, make the sauce: Combine cornstarch and water in a small bowl.
2. In a medium saucepan, add the remaining ingredients along with the cornstarch and water mixture.
3. Stirring frequently, bring the sauce to a simmer. Cook until it lightly thickens and turns dark brown.
4. Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely. You can place it in the fridge to speed up the process.
5. Once the sauce is completely cooled, place the cubed chicken in a large ziplock bag.
6. Pour half of the sauce over the chicken and gently shake to coat the chicken. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Place the remaining sauce aside for later.
7. When the chicken has marinated, place it on skewers and heat the grill to medium heat.
8. Once the grill is hot, place the skewers on the lightly oiled grill.
9. Turn the skewers every 3-4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165 degrees), about 20-30 minutes.
10. During the last few turns, baste with the remaining teriyaki sauce.
11. Remove the skewers from the grill and serve with chopped green onion and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired.

how to serve Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Serve the Teriyaki Chicken Skewers hot off the grill. You can pair them with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. Adding a side of extra teriyaki sauce for dipping can enhance the flavors even more. For a fun and casual meal, let everyone build their own plates with their favorite sides.

how to store Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

If you have leftovers, store the skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to three days. To reheat, you can use a grill or skillet to warm them gently until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken tough.

tips to make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

• For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate for a longer time, even up to overnight.
• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the skewers for added color and nutrition.

variation

You can switch things up by using different proteins, such as shrimp or tofu. Additionally, try adding diced vegetables to the skewers, like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini, to make a complete meal on a stick.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used. They will be leaner and need careful cooking to avoid drying out.

What can I serve with these skewers?

You can serve them with rice, noodles, or a salad. They also go well with grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Delicious teriyaki chicken skewers marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, perfect for summer grilling.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Grilling, Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, Japanese

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Marinade and Sauce

• 2 lbs chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into 1 inch cubes Use thighs for a juicier result, but breasts can be used if preferred.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch For thickening the sauce.
• 1 cup water
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce Recommended to reduce saltiness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil

For Grilling

• 8 pieces skewers If wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
• sesame seeds, for garnish
• chopped green onion, for garnish

Method

 

Make the Sauce

1. Combine cornstarch and water in a small bowl.
2. In a medium saucepan, add the remaining marinade ingredients along with the cornstarch and water mixture.
3. Stirring frequently, bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until it lightly thickens and turns dark brown.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely, placing in the fridge to speed up the process.

Marinate the Chicken

1. Once the sauce has cooled, place the cubed chicken in a large ziplock bag.
2. Pour half of the sauce over the chicken and gently shake to coat the chicken.
3. Let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, reserving the remaining sauce for later.

Grill the Skewers

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Place the marinated chicken on skewers.
3. Once the grill is hot, place the skewers on the lightly oiled grill.
4. Turn the skewers every 3-4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, about 20-30 minutes.
5. During the last few turns, baste with the reserved teriyaki sauce.

Serve

1. Remove skewers from the grill and serve hot, garnished with chopped green onion and sesame seeds.

Notes

For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate longer, even overnight. Avoid microwaving leftovers as it can make the chicken tough.