Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are the perfect dish for your summer grilling parties. This easy recipe features tender chunks of chicken and vibrant veggies all coated in a delicious teriyaki sauce. The juicy and flavorful kebabs are not only great for tailgating, but they also make a perfect addition to any outdoor gathering.

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Start by marinating chunks of chicken in a mix of soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers along with colorful veggies like bell peppers, red onion, and pineapple chunks. Grill the kabobs to perfection, turning occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are slightly charred. Finish off by basting with more teriyaki sauce during grilling for added flavor.

Serve these delectable skewers with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh chopped green onions over a bed of steamed rice. This combination not only enhances the taste but also adds a delightful crunch. These Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are simple to make yet incredibly delicious, making them an ideal dish for any occasion.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love cooking skewers on the grill, especially in the summer. The bright, colored peppers, red onions, and pineapple with this delicious chicken make it an instant favorite. Grilled peppers and grilled pineapple add such a wonderful flavor, you can’t help but enjoy every bite.

When the skewers come off the grill, I slather them with a thick and delicious Hawaiian teriyaki sauce and serve them right away. These kabobs are so good, your tastebuds will be thanking you. Make sure you add this to your list of things to try. During the warmer months, it’s fantastic to take the mess of making meals outdoors, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s such an easy dish to prepare, perfect for any summer gathering.

Can i make skewers ahead of time

When preparing Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, marinate them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to enhance flavor and save time on the day of your meal.

Ingredients (Per Serving)

• 800g boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce (ensure it’s alcohol-free)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1-inch piece ginger (grated)
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Green onions (sliced, for garnish)
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Method

• Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, water, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.

• Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces into the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

• Prepare the Skewers: Soak the wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.

• Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers.

• Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
• Make the Teriyaki Glaze: Pour the leftover marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Add the cornstarch mixture and stir until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
• Glaze the Skewers: Brush the cooked chicken skewers with the thickened teriyaki sauce.

• Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the skewers before serving.

Additional Info About Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Here is some additional information that you may have to know about Teriyaki Chicken Skewers.

Health Benefits:

• Chicken Thighs: Rich in protein and iron, supporting muscle health and red blood cell production.
• Garlic & Ginger: Boosts immunity, reduces inflammation, and supports heart health.
• Soy Sauce (low sodium): Contains antioxidants and supports digestion when consumed in moderation.

Notes:

• For a sweeter glaze, add an extra tablespoon of honey.
• To ensure even cooking, make sure the chicken pieces are similar in size.
• You can substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.

Nutrition (Per serving):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g

Equipment:

• Grill or Grill Pan
• Wooden Skewers
• Small Saucepan
• Mixing Bowl
• Basting Brush

What is a Skewer?

A skewer is crucial for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, typically a thin metal or wood stick that holds food together. The term “skewer” can also refer to the entire food item, like “chicken, skewers,” often used for grilling or roasting meats and fish.

Using a metal skewer ensures even grilling due to good heat conduction, while wood skewers add a rustic touch but need soaking to prevent burning. Marinate the chicken in teriyaki sauce before threading for a flavorful and visually appealing dish, perfect for barbecues.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, the right side dishes can elevate the meal to a new level. A bowl of Jasmine rice pairs wonderfully with the savory, sweet flavors of the chicken. For a touch of Asian flair, try serving it with fresh slaw or a simple homemade soup. The steamed white or brown rice is a Super accompaniment that brings out the garlic and sauce notes of the skewers.

For a more robust meal, take out style fried rice with carrots and peas can be a great addition. If you prefer something light yet delicious, a creamy Hawaiian macaroni salad is an excellent side dish to serve alongside the chicken. This combination not only makes for a satisfying meal but also adds a variety of textures and flavors to your plate.

The beauty of these skewers is their versatility. You can enjoy them with a side of broccoli in garlic sauce, or even charro beans if you want a unique twist. Whether you choose to enjoy them on their own as a simple meal or mix and match with various sides, these chicken skewers are sure to delight.

Storing Leftovers and Freezing

If you’re like me and love to prepare your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers in advance, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before cooking. This makes it easy to get a head start on your meal prep. Once cooked, any leftovers can be placed in an airtight container and kept in the fridge. I find that skewers are often too long to store grilled pieces effectively, so I remove them from the skewer and store the pieces separately.

For those making larger batches, skewers can be frozen for up to three months, though vegetables like mushrooms and tomatoes don’t freeze well. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Avoid freezing uncooked skewers, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 months. Thaw 24 hours in the fridge before use.

Recipe Tips

For a flavorful meal, use teriyaki sauce on chicken skewers, adding orange juice, zest, fresh ginger, and sesame seeds. Cut vegetables into bite-sized pieces to cook evenly.

Soak wood skewers in water while the chicken marinates to prevent burning. If grilling isn’t an option, broil at 500°F for 6-7 minutes per side for equally good results.

Is it okay to double this recipe?

This recipe is ideal for large gatherings, tailgating, or camping. You can double the ingredients and prep ahead for minimal mess. Doing all the prepping before heading out makes it super easy to enjoy your meal without any hassle.

Optimizing Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with Proper Soaking

Soak bamboo skewers overnight for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers to ensure they retain moisture and don’t burn quickly on the grill; 30 minutes is the minimum, but overnight soaking greatly improves their durability.

Grilling Guide for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

To cook Teriyaki Chicken Skewers on the grill, start by preheating the grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for a few minutes on each side, ensuring you don’t overcook it. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Make sure to do regular rotations to get an even cook and to avoid burning. Keep an eye on the chicken and make adjustments as needed to achieve perfectly grilled skewers.

Enhancing Chicken Flavor with Marinades and Glazes

Enhancing chicken flavor with a marinade or glaze is effective. Some think a good recipe needs a marinade, but with the right seasonings and a perfect glaze, you can achieve great flavor. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser with minimal steps.

Brushed seasonings soak into the chicken, creating depth of flavor. No extra steps are needed; the natural blending of ingredients is sufficient. Cooking is about creating something enjoyable for you and your guests.

Whether you’re preparing this for a large crowd or a small gathering, the recipe’s flavor profile, with its perfectly brushed glaze at the end, ensures that every bite is delicious. This approach to Teriyaki Chicken Skewer is designed to wow your guests, providing a balance of flavor and simplicity that is sure to impress.

Testing Grilled Chicken Breasts for Doneness

For Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, use a digital meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast; when it reads 165°F, remove the chicken from the grill. This ensures juicy, flavorful chicken and perfect doneness.

Why is Chicken Teriyaki Good?

Teriyaki chicken skewers are a delightful dish with a salty, sweet, and savory marinade that turns into a glaze as it cooks, making each bite juicy and satisfying. Chicken thighs ensure a simple and delicious dinner, making it a family favorite.

What is teriyaki chicken on a stick made of?

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a delicious mixture of chicken pieces marinated in soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. The marinated chicken pieces are placed on bamboo skewers and grilled to perfection, resulting in flavorful bites.

Why is it called kabobs?

The name “kabobs” likely came from the Persian word kabāb, meaning roasted meat, and passed through Hindustani and Turkish languages. Linguist Sevan Nişanyan notes that the Turkish word kebap also comes from kabāb. Understanding this history enhances the appreciation of grilling’s timeless essence.

What is the difference between chicken kabob and shawarma?

Shawarma is cooked on a rotisserie, giving it a unique flavor, while kebabs are skewered and grilled, resulting in a smoky taste. Donor kebab is similar to shawarma but differs in preparation, affecting the texture and flavor of the meat.