These Epic Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are packed with flavor and are super fun to eat! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a sweet and salty teriyaki sauce, making each bite delicious.
Grilling them gives a nice char that everyone loves! I always serve these at parties, and they disappear in no time. So, grab some friends, a grill, and get ready for a tasty time! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be sure not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.
Teriyaki Sauce: Store-bought teriyaki sauce works well, but homemade is super easy! You can make it with soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and ginger. If you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos for a similar flavor.
Sesame Oil: This adds a nice nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, olive oil can work in a pinch, though it will change the taste slightly. Toasted sesame oil is even better if you can find it!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you’re vegan, consider using maple syrup or agave syrup as a great alternative.
Green Onions: These are for garnish, adding a fresh taste. If you’re out of them, you can use chives or even diced regular onions, though they have a stronger flavor.
How Do You Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is key to infusing flavor. Combine your teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and ginger. Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces to soak up that goodness.
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Add the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated well.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate. Aim for at least one hour but let it sit overnight for best results!
This method not only enhances flavor but also helps in tenderizing the chicken, making it juicy on the grill.
How to Make Epic Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak in water for 30 minutes)
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time plus at least 1 hour for marinating. If you can, marinate the chicken overnight for even better flavor! After marinating, grilling will take about 15 minutes. So, overall, plan for at least 1 hour and 15 minutes, or up to overnight for marination. Easy and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, about 1-2 inches. This will help them cook evenly on the skewers. Set them aside for now.
2. Marinating:
In a large bowl, mix together the teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and ginger. Once well combined, add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Make sure each piece is coated thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For the best flavor, let it marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight if you have the time!
3. Preheating the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s nice and hot before adding the skewers!
4. Skewering the Chicken:
Now it’s time to thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. Try to leave a little space between each piece to help them cook evenly. If you’re using bamboo skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning!
5. Grilling the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. For extra flavor, brush on some additional teriyaki sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
6. Garnishing:
When the skewers are cooked, carefully remove them from the grill. Sprinkle the skewers with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a tasty garnish.
7. Serving:
Now, it’s time to enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Chicken Skewers! Serve them hot with extra teriyaki sauce on the side for dipping. Perfect for a BBQ or any gathering!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can! Chicken breasts are leaner and will cook faster, so be mindful of cooking time to avoid drying them out. Cut them into similar bite-sized pieces and follow the same marinating and grilling instructions!
What If I Don’t Have Teriyaki Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing soy sauce with a bit of brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Combine 1/2 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and a splash of rice vinegar or sesame oil for a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce.
How Can I Make These Skewers in the Oven?
Of course! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through. Brush with teriyaki sauce during the last few minutes for extra flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or briefly on a skillet, adding a splash of teriyaki sauce to keep them moist and flavorful.
