“Sweet, savory, and utterly irresistible—grilled teriyaki chicken skewers have a way of transforming any gathering into a joyful feast. This mouthwatering recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine right to your backyard, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or delightful weekend barbecues. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be able to create juicy chicken kabobs that are not only easy to prepare but also gluten-free if you opt for gluten-free soy sauce. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade bliss—each tender bite drizzled with a glossy teriyaki glaze is bound to impress. Are you ready to fire up your grill and skew some deliciousness?”
Why You’ll Love Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Simplicity and ease: This recipe breaks down the grilling process into simple steps, making it perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.
Flavor explosion: The homemade teriyaki sauce offers a perfect balance of sweetness and savory notes, elevating your chicken kabobs to restaurant-quality dining.
Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive barbecue, these skewers are guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends!
Gluten-free option: Easily swap regular soy sauce for gluten-free tamari, making this dish accessible for everyone at the table.
Versatile and customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or even switch the protein to tofu for a delightful vegetarian twist!
Check out additional recipes like Million Dollar Chicken for more delicious options.
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Ingredients
For the Skewers
• Chicken Thighs – Boneless and skinless thighs give you juicy and tender meat for your grilled teriyaki chicken skewers.
• Skewers – Opt for metal or soaked wooden skewers; soaking wood in water prevents burning while grilling.
For the Teriyaki Sauce
• Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent; arrowroot makes a great substitute if needed.
• Water – Used to dissolve the cornstarch; critical for achieving the right sauce consistency.
• Brown Sugar – Brings sweetness and caramelization; coconut sugar offers a healthier alternative.
• Soy Sauce – Essential for umami flavor; choose low-sodium or tamari for a gluten-free version.
• Garlic Cloves – Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth; garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Rice Vinegar – Provides a tangy sharpness to the sauce; substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
• Fresh Ginger – Adds a warm spice note; ground ginger is acceptable—just use half the amount!
• Honey – Sweetens and glosses up the sauce; maple syrup is a great vegan alternative.
• Sesame Oil – Delivers a toasted aroma, so be sure to use quality pure sesame oil for the best flavor.
For Garnish (Optional)
• Green Onions – Adds freshness and color when sprinkled on top before serving.
• Sesame Seeds – Enhances presentation and gives a delightful crunch when sprinkled over the skewers.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. In a saucepan, combine remaining sauce ingredients: ½ cup brown sugar, ½ cup soy sauce, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 tablespoon sesame oil. Heat over medium heat until simmering, stirring constantly until thickened, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Cut 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized cubes and place them in a ziplock bag. Pour half of the cooled teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Seal the bag tightly, removing excess air, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, you can marinate for up to 24 hours.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F. If you’re using a charcoal grill, light the coals and let them burn until covered with white ash. Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Proper preheating allows for a great sear, making your teriyaki chicken skewers even more delicious.
Step 4: Skewer the Chicken
Once the chicken is marinated, thread the cubes onto your soaking wooden or metal skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Aim for about 4-5 pieces per skewer. As you prepare the skewers, keep an eye on the grill temperature to ensure it’s ready for the next step in creating those flavorful teriyaki chicken skewers.
Step 5: Grill
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 20-30 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to ensure even cooking. Look for a golden-brown color with a slightly charred edge. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F for safety. In the last few minutes, baste the chicken with the reserved teriyaki sauce for added flavor and moisture.
Step 6: Serve
Once cooked through and beautifully caramelized, carefully remove the teriyaki chicken skewers from the grill. Allow them to rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. Enjoy your savory teriyaki chicken skewers as a delightful dish for any gathering!
What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Elevate your culinary experience with perfect side dishes that complement the rich, savory flavors of these delectable skewers.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture and fragrant aroma of jasmine rice balance the bold taste of the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, corn, and bell peppers add a smoky flavor, enhancing both nutrition and vibrancy to your meal.
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Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar and sesame oil provides a crisp contrast that cuts through the richness of the skewers.
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Sesame Noodles: These cool, tangy noodles topped with scallions and sesame seeds mirror the Asian flavors, creating a harmonious dining experience.
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Asian Slaw: A crunchy cabbage and carrot slaw drizzled with a sesame vinaigrette adds a delightful crunch and zesty contrast.
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Mango Salsa: The sweetness of ripe mango combined with lime and cilantro will elevate your meal, adding a tropical twist that dances beautifully with the chicken skewers.
Make Ahead Options
These teriyaki chicken skewers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors with minimal effort on busy weeknights. You can marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the meat absorbs all that rich flavor. For even easier preparation, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill on medium heat for 20-30 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve that perfect char. Just remember to baste with the reserved sauce towards the end to keep the skewers juicy and flavorful!
Storage Tips for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Fridge: Store leftover teriyaki chicken skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them juicy and flavorful for your next meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the skewers in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy these skewers again, reheat on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. This helps maintain the delicious teriyaki flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with freshly steamed rice or a vibrant salad to create a quick and delightful meal even on busy days!
Expert Tips for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
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Marinate Wisely: Allow the chicken to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes, but marinating for up to 24 hours in the teriyaki sauce deepens the flavors without compromising texture.
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Ensure Preheated Grill: Preheating your grill to medium heat is crucial. It guarantees a beautiful sear and locks in the moisture of your teriyaki chicken skewers.
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Avoid Overcooking: Grill the skewers until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Using a meat thermometer helps prevent dryness by ensuring the chicken is perfectly cooked.
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Baste at the Right Time: Apply the reserved teriyaki sauce during the last few minutes of grilling. This prevents burning and keeps the glaze silky and flavorful.
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Use Soaked Wooden Skewers: If you choose wooden skewers, soaking them in water for 30 minutes before grilling protects them from catching fire, ensuring your teriyaki chicken skewers shine.
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Variations
Feel free to experiment and make these teriyaki chicken skewers your own delightful creation!
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Vegetarian Option: Use tofu instead of chicken. Marinate and grill it the same way for a fantastic meatless meal.
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Colorful Veggie Skewers: Add chunks of bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions to the skewers for extra flavor and a delightful crunch, enhancing both nutrition and visual appeal.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in some sriracha or red pepper flakes with the teriyaki sauce for a spicy twist. This extra heat will awaken your taste buds and add layers of flavor.
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Pineapple Temptation: Alternate pieces of fresh pineapple with chicken on the skewers. The sweetness of the pineapple caramelizes beautifully and balances the savory teriyaki.
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Cashew Crumble: Top the grilled skewers with crushed roasted cashews or peanuts for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
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Citrus Zest: Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the sauce for a zesty, refreshing flavor that brightens up the traditional teriyaki.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh basil or cilantro in the marinade for an aromatic herbal twist, taking these skewers to a new level of freshness and flavor.
For more incredible dish ideas, consider trying out Cheesy Garlic Chicken or indulge in Crispy Chicken Tenders that are sure to delight your family and friends!
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for teriyaki chicken skewers?
Absolutely! I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and tenderness, which make for the best teriyaki chicken skewers. You could also use chicken breast, but thighs are generally more forgiving when it comes to grilling!
How should I store leftover teriyaki chicken skewers?
To keep your skewers juicy and flavorful, place leftover teriyaki chicken skewers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to enjoy them for lunch or a quick dinner later!
Can I freeze teriyaki chicken skewers?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your teriyaki chicken skewers! After grilling, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the grill or in a skillet until warmed through.
What do I do if my teriyaki sauce isn’t thickening?
No worries! If your teriyaki sauce isn’t thickening, it might be due to not heating it long enough. Make sure to simmer the sauce for at least 5–7 minutes while stirring constantly. If it still doesn’t thicken, try adding an extra teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of water, and simmer it until it reaches the desired consistency.
Can I make teriyaki chicken skewers gluten-free?
Very much so! To make the teriyaki chicken skewers gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari. Make sure to check the labels for other ingredients like sesame oil or any marinades you may choose to use, ensuring they also meet gluten-free standards.
How long can I marinate chicken for teriyaki skewers?
I often recommend marinating your chicken for at least 30 minutes for good flavor absorption, but marinating it for up to 24 hours in the teriyaki sauce will deepen the flavor even more. Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as that may alter the texture of the chicken!
Savory Teriyaki Chicken Skewers for Irresistible BBQ Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make the sauce by mixing cornstarch and water, then combine remaining sauce ingredients in a saucepan and heat until thickened.
- Marinate chicken in half of the cooled sauce for at least 30 minutes in a ziplock bag.
- Preheat grill to medium heat, ensuring grates are clean and lightly oiled.
- Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking.
- Grill skewers for 20-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
- Serve skewers garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
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