Name: Teriyaki Chicken Skewers That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon Cornstarch; 2 tablespoons Water; 1/2 cup Brown sugar (Honey is a substitute); 1/2 cup Soy sauce (Low sodium recommended); 2 cloves Garlic cloves (Minced); 1/4 cup Rice vinegar (White wine vinegar is an alternative); 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger (Ground ginger can also be used); 1 tablespoon Honey (Optional); 1 tablespoon Sesame oil (High-quality recommended); 8 Wooden skewers (Soak in water before grilling); 2 tablespoons Green onion (Chopped for garnish); 2 tablespoons Sesame seeds (For garnish)

While flipping through my favorite cooking magazine, I stumbled upon a vibrant photo of grilled teriyaki chicken skewers, and my mouth instantly watered. The balancing act of sweet and savory in those juicy kabobs sang to my culinary soul. These grilled teriyaki chicken skewers are not just a feast for the eyes; they come with the irresistible perks of being quick to prepare and perfect for summer gatherings. Picture this: succulent chicken marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, grilled to smoky perfection and ready in under an hour! Whether you’re gathering around the barbecue with friends or whipping up a simple family dinner, these kabobs are sure to spice up your meal. Curious about how to bring that restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen? Let’s dive into the flavorful world of teriyaki chicken skewers!

What makes teriyaki chicken skewers irresistible?

Quick and Easy: You can have these grilled teriyaki chicken skewers ready to serve in under an hour, making them the perfect solution for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet and savory flavors from the homemade teriyaki sauce creates an addictive taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you choose to grill, air fry, or broil, this recipe adapts seamlessly to your preferred cooking style, ensuring delicious results every time.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These kabobs are not just for adults; even picky eaters will enjoy them! Serve them alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or jasmine rice for a well-rounded meal.

Customizable: Feel free to experiment with ingredients! Try swapping chicken for tofu or adding your favorite veggies to the skewers—everyone will love your personalized twist!

This recipe is just the start—once you fall in love with these skewers, why not check out our Hawaiian Chicken Sheet for another delightful spin on chicken?

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs (or Breasts) – Boneless, skinless thighs are perfect for juiciness, but breasts can also work well.

For the Sauce
• Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, giving it a glossy finish.
• Water – Essential for creating the base of your homemade teriyaki sauce.
• Brown Sugar – Sweetens the sauce with a rich, caramel-like flavor; honey is a great substitute for a lighter note.
• Soy Sauce – Provides the necessary umami flavor; low sodium helps control the saltiness.
• Garlic Cloves – Freshly minced to lend aromatic depth; can be swapped with garlic powder when in a pinch.
• Rice Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance flavors; white wine vinegar is a good alternative.
• Fresh Ginger – Zesty and fragrant; use ground ginger for a quicker option, but reduce the amount by half.
• Honey – Optional for added sweetness based on your taste preferences.
• Sesame Oil – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for high-quality oil for the best results.

For Assembly
• Skewers – Wooden skewers are traditional; remember to soak them in water before grilling to prevent burning.
• Green Onion – Provides fresh garnish and a nice pop of color.
• Sesame Seeds – Excellent for a final crunch and visual appeal on your skewers.

Embrace the joy of making these teriyaki chicken skewers with ingredients that will bring you right into the heart of Asian cuisine!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a smooth mixture. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the remaining sauce ingredients: brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, ginger, honey, and sesame oil. Cook while stirring frequently until the sauce thickens and turns a deep brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken
Cut 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into uniform cubes for even cooking. Place the chicken pieces in a zip-lock bag, and pour half of the cooled teriyaki sauce over them. Seal the bag tightly, ensuring the marinade coats each piece well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to soak in the flavors, or up to overnight for a deeper taste.

Step 3: Prepare Grilling
While the chicken marinates, soak wooden skewers in water for about 15-30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). Once the skewers are ready and the grill is hot, carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 4: Grill Skewers
Place the prepared skewers on the preheated grill, positioning them away from direct flames. Grill the skewers for 20-30 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to ensure even cooking on all sides. As they grill, keep an eye on them, and you’ll know they’re done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has nice char marks.

Step 5: Baste Chicken
In the final few minutes of grilling, bring out the remaining teriyaki sauce to baste the chicken skewers for added flavor. Using a basting brush, spread the sauce over the chicken every couple of minutes. This will enhance the glaze and give the kabobs a beautiful, shiny finish.

Step 6: Serve
Once grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from the grill with care. Allow them to rest for a couple of minutes, then sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal. Serve these delightful teriyaki chicken skewers warm, accompanied by jasmine rice or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers – Customizable Delights

Feel free to play with these delicious skewers and make them your own, adding personal touches that excite your palate!

Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken with tofu for a delightful vegetarian version. Simply cube the tofu and marinate for a similar flavor experience. The texture is wonderfully tender when grilled!
Veggie-Packed Skewers: Add bell peppers, onions, or zucchini pieces to your skewers for a colorful, veggie-rich meal. The added crunch and sweetness will elevate your dish beautifully.
Sweetness Swap: If you’re looking for an alternative sweetener, try coconut sugar instead of brown sugar. It imparts a unique caramel flavor while keeping the ingredient list healthy.
Heat It Up: Spice things up by mixing in red pepper flakes or a touch of sriracha into your marinade. This adds a lovely kick that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Citrus Twist: Add a splash of fresh orange or lemon juice to the sauce for a bright, zesty flavor. The citrus balances the sweetness nicely and offers a refreshing twist.
Air-Fried Skewers: For a healthier cooking method, try air frying your teriyaki chicken skewers. They will come out wonderfully crispy with less oil, making it an excellent option for any day of the week.
Sauce Variations: For extra depth, include a splash of pineapple juice in your teriyaki sauce. This not only adds sweetness but gives a tropical feel that pairs well with grilled flavors.

Elevate your mealtime with these versatile variations. Also, if you’re feeling adventurous, try out these mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Skewer recipes for more flavorful fun!

Expert Tips for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Uniform Cubes: Ensure chicken pieces are cut into uniform cubes for even cooking. This prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others are overdone.
Watch the Heat: Monitor your grill temperature carefully; cooking at too high a heat can lead to burnt skewers. Aim for medium heat for the best results.
Don’t Over-marinate: Marinating chicken for longer than 24 hours can alter its texture. Stick to 30 minutes to overnight to keep the meat tender.
Baste Wisely: When basting the skewers, avoid doing it too early. Baste during the last few minutes of grilling to ensure a sticky, flavorful glaze without burning the sauce.
Try Different Methods: If grilling isn’t family-friendly or available, try air frying or broiling the teriyaki chicken skewers for a quick, healthy alternative with similar delicious results.
Secure Skewers: If using wooden skewers, always soak them in water first to prevent burning and ensure they hold together during grilling.

Storage Tips for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Fridge: Store cooked teriyaki chicken skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-lock bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To bring back the delicious taste, reheat skewers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Marinating: Uncooked teriyaki chicken skewers can be marinated in the fridge for 1-2 days before grilling, keeping the meat flavorful and juicy.

What to Serve with Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Transform your dinner into a delightful experience with these satisfying pairings that elevate the savory-sweet charm of your skewers.

Jasmine Rice: Soft, fragrant rice absorbs the teriyaki glaze perfectly, complementing the juicy chicken without overpowering its flavor.
Cucumber Salad: A crisp, refreshing side with a hint of vinegar balances the richness of the skewers, enhancing your meal’s overall brightness.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and onions add a smoky element that harmonizes beautifully with the skewers’ sweet notes.
Asian Slaw: This crunchy, tangy side featuring cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing adds texture and a burst of flavor, making for a fun contrast.
Edamame: Lightly salted and steamed, these young soybeans offer a satisfying bite while adding protein and fiber to your meal.
Sushi Rolls: A tasty way to incorporate more Asian flavors, fresh sushi rolls serve as a fun appetizer or side, impressing with their artistic presentation.
Mango Sticky Rice: A tropical dessert that melts in your mouth, the sweet mango and coconut-infused sticky rice offer a delightful finish to your meal.
Iced Green Tea: This refreshing drink with subtle earthiness complements the savory-sweet profile of the skewers, cleansing the palate effortlessly.

Make Ahead Options

These teriyaki chicken skewers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the flavors to really penetrate the meat for deliciously tender kabobs. Simply cube the chicken and combine it with half of the cooled teriyaki sauce in a zip-lock bag, refrigerating it until you’re ready to grill. Additionally, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce up to 3 days ahead, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just grill the skewers as instructed, baste them during the last few minutes, and enjoy a hassle-free meal that tastes just as delightful!

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for my teriyaki chicken skewers?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy texture. However, if you prefer chicken breasts, they can work just as well. Just be mindful that breasts may become dry if overcooked, so keep an eye on the grilling time.

How long can I store cooked teriyaki chicken skewers in the fridge?
Cooked skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are properly sealed to maintain their flavor and avoid drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, a quick reheating in the oven will bring them back to life deliciously!

Can I freeze my teriyaki chicken skewers?
Yes, you can freeze them! Once cooked, allow the skewers to cool completely, then lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer them to a zip-lock bag, ensuring to squeeze out any excess air. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so in the oven for the best results.

How do I know when my chicken skewers are done grilling?
Very good question! To ensure they’re perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Additionally, look for nice char marks and a slight caramelization on the outside—this indicates flavorful goodness.

Can my pets eat teriyaki chicken skewers?
It’s best not to share your teriyaki chicken skewers with your furry friends. The sauce contains ingredients like soy sauce and garlic that can be harmful to pets. Stick to plain, cooked chicken pieces without any seasoning for a safe treat for them!

What should I do if my teriyaki sauce is too salty?
If you find your sauce is a bit on the salty side, don’t worry! You can balance it by adding a touch more brown sugar or honey to counteract the saltiness. Another option is to stretch the sauce by adding a bit more water or even fresh grated ginger for an extra kick!