Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

These easy, flavorful Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers are a great addition to any BBQ or family dinner. With their homemade taste, they outshine takeout every time. The sweet and savory marinade infuses the chicken with rich flavors, making these skewers perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: These skewers come together in no time. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates an irresistible flavor profile that makes each bite truly delightful.
• Versatile Cooking Options: You can grill these skewers outdoors or use a grill pan indoors, ensuring you can enjoy them no matter the season.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ, family gathering, or weeknight dinner, these skewers are sure to impress.
• Healthy Choice: Made with tender chicken thighs and fresh ingredients, this dish is not only tasty but also packed with protein.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools for a smooth experience. Having everything in place makes preparing Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers much easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Skewers
• Zip lock bag or sealed container

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A must-have for achieving that smoky flavor while cooking the chicken skewers to perfection.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining and mixing the marinade smoothly.
• Whisk: Helps ensure all ingredients blend well together for an even marinade.

Ingredients

These easy, flavorful Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers are perfect for BBQs or family dinners. Homemade taste beats takeout every time!

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs Chicken Thighs (cut into 1-inch cubes)

For the Marinade

• 1 cup Water
• 2 tbsp Cornstarch
• 1/3 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/3 cup Soy Sauce
• 1 tsp Minced Garlic
• 2 tsp Minced Ginger
• 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar
• 1 tbsp Honey
• 1 tsp Sesame Oil

For Garnish

• Chopped Green Onion (for garnish)
• Sesame Seeds (for garnish)

How to Make Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes, discarding large pieces of fat.

Step 2: Create the Marinade

In a bowl, combine cornstarch and water; whisk until smooth. Next, add brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil to the bowl. Whisk to combine.

Step 3: Heat the Marinade

Heat the marinade over medium heat until it slightly thickens. Once thickened, let it cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Marinate the Chicken

Divide the marinade in half. Use one half for marinating the chicken and set aside the other half for basting later. Marinate the chicken in a sealed container or zip lock bag with half of the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.

Step 5: Prepare Skewers

Soak skewers in water a few hours before grilling to prevent them from burning on the grill.

Step 6: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked skewers evenly.

Step 7: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill to medium heat.

Step 8: Grill Time!

Grill the skewers while turning them often. Once they start to brown, baste with reserved marinade every 5 minutes until cooked through.

Step 9: Check Doneness

Grill until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 10: Serve With Style

Garnish with chopped green onion before serving these delightful Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or enjoying a family dinner, these skewers can be paired with a variety of sides and garnishes for an impressive meal.

Pair with Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A classic pairing that absorbs the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
• Fried Rice: Adds flavor and texture, perfect for a more filling meal.

Fresh Salads

• Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, it complements the savory chicken perfectly.
• Asian Slaw: A mix of cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame dressing adds color and crunch.

Noodles

• Soba Noodles: These buckwheat noodles provide a nutty flavor that pairs well with teriyaki.
• Rice Noodles: Light and chewy, they soak up the flavors of the marinade nicely.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Adds a fresh touch when sprinkled on top just before serving.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted seeds enhance the visual appeal and add a nutty crunch.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

To create perfect Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers, follow these helpful tips. Mastering these elements will ensure your skewers are flavorful and juicy every time.

• Bold Marinade Time: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
• Bold Soak Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers in water prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Bold Preheat Grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium heat for even cooking.
• Bold Use Reserved Marinade: Basting with reserved marinade enhances flavor while keeping the chicken moist.
• Bold Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
• Bold Let Rest: Allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes after grilling to retain juices.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

Serving Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that pair well with this dish.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy green side that adds color and nutrients to your plate.
2. Miso Soup: A warm starter that introduces umami flavors, setting the stage for your skewers.
3. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame provides a fun finger food option alongside the main dish.
4. Quinoa Salad: Nutritious and filling, quinoa salad offers a nice contrast in texture.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini bring freshness and smokiness.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges make for a hearty side that children love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers, it’s easy to overlook a few key points that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating chicken for less than 4 hours can lead to bland skewers. Always allow enough time for the flavors to penetrate.
• Ignoring skewer soaking: If you skip soaking wooden skewers, they may catch fire on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Using high heat too soon: Jumping straight to high heat can burn the outside while leaving the chicken undercooked. Preheat your grill to medium heat for even cooking.
• Skipping basting: If you forget to baste with the reserved marinade, your skewers may dry out. Baste every 5 minutes for juicy results.
• Not checking internal temperature: Cooking without checking the internal temperature can result in undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

• Place cooled skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning frequently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make gluten-free Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers?

You can substitute soy sauce with gluten-free tamari sauce. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but it may turn out drier since chicken thighs have more fat. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

What should I serve with Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers?

These skewers pair well with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How can I customize my teriyaki sauce?

Feel free to add pineapple juice or chili flakes for sweetness or spiciness, respectively. Experiment with different flavors!

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Teriyaki Skewers are not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor that rivals takeout options. This recipe is perfect for BBQs or cozy family dinners and offers plenty of room for customization based on your taste preferences. Try adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the marinade to create your unique twist!