Whether you’re looking to make a game-day snack or a hearty dinner, flavorful teriyaki chicken skewers are a great recipe. The recipe is explained step-by-step.
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Flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Grilled Recipe –
If you’re looking for something to make in the backyard for a quick family dinner with grilling, teriyaki chicken skewers are a favorite.
This recipe combines succulent chicken marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce with a smoky grill to create a unique dish.
It’s simple and delicious, making it a perfect snack on game days. This skewers recipe is a must-try in your kitchen, and it’s easy enough for beginners to make. With this article, you’ll be able to master it and easily make flavorful teriyaki chicken skewers at home.
It will teach you how to serve them perfectly and answer some questions about how to correct mistakes, so let’s get started.
Why Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Are Loved:
Teriyaki chicken skewers are grilled in a Japanese teriyaki sauce with a smoky, intense flavor. The result is a savory, sweet, and rich flavor that strikes a perfect balance. This recipe is a great choice and tastes amazing even for picky eaters.
Besides, this recipe:
- It’s perfect for grilling indoors or outdoors.
- The recipe is great for meal prepping.
- It’s a very versatile dish that can be served with noodles, rice, or vegetables.
All the Ingredients You Need
The ingredients listed make 5 to 6 servings of teriyaki chicken skewers. You can make more by increasing the quantity.
Chicken Ingredients –
- 2 pounds of skinless and boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes. Thighs are much juicier than breasts.
- Metal or wooden skewers. To use wooden skewers, soak them in water for 28 to 35 minutes before using.
Teriyaki Marinade Ingredients –
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water, to thicken the sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 3 chopped garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup brown sugar to provide a caramelized sweetness
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
Optional garnish ingredients –
- Sliced onion
- Sesame seeds
- Pineapple slices; use grilled chicken for a tropical flavor.
Step-by-step instructions for making flavorful teriyaki chicken skewers at home –
1. Preparing the Marinade
- Use a medium-sized saucepan. Add the ingredients as directed:
- brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Add the ingredients to the saucepan and mix well.
- Continue heating over medium heat until all the sugar dissolves.
- Use a small bowl and add the water and cornstarch, whisking thoroughly into the sauce.
- Continue cooking for 4 to 5 minutes to thicken the sauce until slightly thickened. Then cool and divide into two equal portions: one for the marinade and one for grilling basting.
- Important tip: To avoid cross-contamination, keep the marinade and sauce separate when making this recipe.
2. Marinating the Chicken
- Use a plastic bag or a large bowl to seal the chicken pieces.
- Pour half the cooled teriyaki sauce over the chicken and marinate, covered, for 55 to 60 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for a richer, more intense flavor.
3. Assembling the Skewers
- Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat and have it ready.
- Place all the pieces on the soaked skewers.
- You can now top the chicken with bell peppers or pineapple pieces, as desired.
4. Grilling the Skewers
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 12 to 13 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- To add shine, brush with the remaining teriyaki sauce while cooking for a caramelized finish.
- For the chicken to be cooked thoroughly, the internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C).
5. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the flavorful teriyaki chicken skewers with chopped onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot with fried rice, steamed rice, or stir-fried vegetables.
Nutrition:
- 280 calories
- 12 grams fat
- 28 grams protein
- 14 grams carbohydrates
- 1 gram fiber
- 9 grams sugar
- Nutrition varies depending on the serving size and ingredients added.
Some Serving Suggestions:
This dish is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways.
For a party appetizer – Mini skewers can be served with dipping sauce for a classic look.
For a classic style – Use white rice in a bowl and serve with a dollop of teriyaki sauce on top.
For a meal prep bowl – Use quinoa or noodles with roasted vegetables for a richer and more flavorful meal.
For an Asian fusion wrap – Serve with sauce and slaw inside a tortilla for a richer flavor.
Some Tips for Successful Teriyaki Chicken Skewers:
If you prefer a more juicy dish, use chicken thighs, as breast tends to dry out quickly.
Always use wooden skewers after soaking them to prevent burning during grilling.
Watching for Broiling – Always broil the skewers in the oven on high heat to even out the color.
Basting – Basting adds a nice layer of flavor and adds a bit of stickiness.
If you want more sauce, double the amount of marinade and drizzle it over the sauce.
FAQ, Flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
How long should chicken be marinated?
Marinating is recommended for 55 to 60 minutes, but for best flavor, refrigerate overnight.
Note: Marinating for more than 24 hours is a good idea, as the vinegar changes the texture.
Final Thoughts
Flavorful teriyaki chicken skewers are incredibly easy to make. Even if you’re a beginner, you’ll master the recipe below. This is a versatile dish that’s both delicious and perfect for all occasions. Whether you serve it at a summer barbecue or make it for a family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The simple preparation makes these skewers a household favorite.
Make this recipe right now. Turn on your grill, use your chicken skewers, and make teriyaki chicken skewers at home tonight and enjoy them with your family.