These Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with a crispy exterior and juicy, tender interior. The sticky teriyaki glaze caramelizes beautifully on the grill, offering a delicious smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the charred chicken.
This dish is not only packed with flavor but is incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re grilling on a weekend barbecue or preparing a weeknight dinner, these skewers will be a hit at your table. The addition of sesame seeds and green onions adds an extra layer of crunch and freshness, making this dish irresistible!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
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1/4 cup soy sauce
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1/4 cup brown sugar
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2 tbsp rice vinegar
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2 tbsp sesame oil
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1 tbsp garlic, minced
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1 tbsp ginger, minced
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2 tbsp cornstarch
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1/4 cup water
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2 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
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Green onions for garnish
Directions:
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In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
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Add chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor).
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Preheat grill or grill pan to medium heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
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Grill the chicken skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char.
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While the chicken is grilling, prepare the teriyaki sauce. In a small saucepan, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Add the remaining marinade and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
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Once the skewers are done, drizzle with the thickened teriyaki sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers offer a combination of flavors that are both satisfying and delicious. The marinated chicken soaks up the sweet and salty notes of the soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil, which makes for an irresistible bite. The sweetness from the brown sugar balances out the savory umami from the soy sauce, while the garlic and ginger provide aromatic depth. The skewers are grilled to perfection, creating a slight char on the edges and locking in all the flavor.
Not only do these skewers taste amazing, but they’re also fun to eat. Skewers allow for portion control, making them perfect for parties or family gatherings. You can even pair them with rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal. The ease of preparation and the speed at which they cook makes this dish perfect for a busy weeknight, while still offering the richness of a gourmet meal.
A Crowd-Pleasing Dish for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a casual dinner with friends, or just looking for a tasty dish to enjoy during the week, Teriyaki Chicken Skewers fit any occasion. These skewers make the perfect appetizer or main course. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as extra teriyaki or a spicy mayo, for an extra burst of flavor.
For those looking to add more excitement to their barbecue, Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are an excellent choice. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your guests’ dietary preferences, whether they’re gluten-free, keto, or prefer a plant-based version (by substituting chicken for tofu or vegetables). The sweet and savory combination appeals to both adults and children alike, making it an excellent dish to serve at family gatherings or potlucks.
The Art of Grilling Chicken Skewers
The key to a perfect grilled skewer lies in a few simple steps. First, ensure that your grill is preheated to a medium heat. High heat will help you achieve the ideal char on the chicken without overcooking it, while medium heat ensures that the chicken cooks evenly throughout. Be sure to thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, allowing enough space between each piece to cook properly and receive the grill’s heat.
While grilling, keep an eye on the skewers, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. The aroma of the grilling chicken will fill your space with mouthwatering scents, adding to the excitement. Grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Another important tip is to brush the chicken with the leftover marinade as it grills. This will enhance the flavor and create a beautiful glossy finish. However, do not use the raw marinade that the chicken was originally marinated in; always set aside a portion for brushing to avoid cross-contamination.
Pairing Suggestions for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
The beauty of Teriyaki Chicken Skewers is that they can be paired with virtually anything, depending on your preference and the occasion. For a well-rounded meal, serve them with some steamed rice or fried rice to complement the sweet and savory flavors. The richness of the rice balances out the intense teriyaki sauce.
If you’re craving vegetables, try serving the skewers with grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or onions. The smoky, caramelized flavor from grilling the veggies pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken and rich teriyaki glaze. You can even make a vegetable stir-fry or toss some roasted veggies alongside for a healthy touch.
For a lighter side dish, Asian-style coleslaw or a cucumber salad would provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and sticky chicken. The coolness of the veggies will cut through the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce and offer a satisfying crunch to the meal.
Customizing the Teriyaki Marinade
One of the best things about this dish is how customizable the teriyaki marinade can be. The traditional marinade includes soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger, but feel free to tweak the ingredients to match your personal taste.
For a spicy twist, add some chili flakes, sriracha, or even a small amount of red curry paste to the marinade. This will balance out the sweetness of the sauce with a zesty heat that’s perfect for spice lovers.
If you prefer a lighter option, you can swap out the brown sugar for a natural sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup. For a low-sodium version, try using low-sodium soy sauce and cutting back on the sugar. For a more citrusy finish, add some freshly squeezed orange juice or lemon juice to the marinade for a tangy pop that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Healthier Alternatives
While this recipe is already on the lighter side, you can make a few modifications to create a healthier version. For those following a gluten-free diet, make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to avoid any gluten-containing ingredients.
If you’re watching your calorie intake, consider swapping out the sesame oil for a lighter option like olive oil or avocado oil. Another way to reduce calories is by using skinless chicken breast rather than thighs, which are slightly higher in fat.
If you’re looking to make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan. Both options will soak up the teriyaki marinade just as well as chicken, providing a hearty, plant-based alternative.
Conclusion: A Delicious, Versatile Dish
In conclusion, Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re grilling them in the summer or cooking them on a stovetop grill pan in the winter, the savory sweetness of the teriyaki marinade will surely satisfy your taste buds. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity—the marinade is easy to make with just a few pantry staples, and the grilling process adds a delicious smoky flavor.
This dish is perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to fancy gatherings. Its customizable nature allows you to experiment with flavors and ingredients, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. Paired with your favorite sides or enjoyed on its own, Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, these skewers will impress everyone with their rich flavor and tender texture. Enjoy!