The sizzle of marinated chicken hitting the grill instantly transports me to backyard barbecues and sunny Saturdays. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Easy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers—a family-friendly dish that’s creative and comforting. Infused with a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce, these skewers strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory, making them a hit at both casual gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners. With minimal prep time and a straightforward cooking process, they allow you to enjoy great flavors without the fuss. Plus, they’re versatile enough to accommodate any dietary preference, whether you stick to chicken or mix it up with vegetables or tofu. Curious how to make these delectable skewers? Let’s dive in!
Why are Teriyaki Chicken Skewers a Must-Try?
Ease of Preparation: These skewers are incredibly simple, with just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, making them perfect for any busy night.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet and savory teriyaki sauce and juicy chicken thighs brings a truly delightful flavor that everyone will love.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair these skewers with a side of steamed rice, grilled veggies, or even a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Family-Friendly Fun: Kids adore the fun of eating off skewers, and they can even help thread the chicken for some quality family time.
Adaptability: Try swapping chicken for shrimp or veggies, allowing for endless variations to suit every palate, just like I did with my Buffalo Chicken Waffle Nachos.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or seeking a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers will impress your family and guests!
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Ingredients
• Dive into the delightful ingredients that make these skewers irresistible!
For the Chicken
- Boneless Chicken Thighs – Thighs are preferred for tenderness and juicy bites.
- Skewers – Be sure to soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
For the Teriyaki Sauce
- Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce for a glossy finish; optional for a lighter version.
- Water – Activates cornstarch, ensuring a beautifully thickened sauce.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the savoriness of the soy sauce; light or dark both work!
- Soy Sauce – Infuses umami flavor; opt for low sodium for a healthier option.
- Garlic Cloves – Freshly minced adds aromatic depth; substitute with garlic powder if needed.
- Rice Vinegar – Introduces a touch of acidity; white wine vinegar can work in a pinch.
- Fresh Ginger – Lends warmth and zing, but feel free to use ground ginger for convenience.
- Honey – Deepens the sweetness and adds complexity to the marinade.
- Sesame Oil – Imparts a lovely nutty flavor; pure sesame oil is best for richness.
Optional Toppings
- Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle for added crunch and aesthetic appeal.
- Chopped Green Onions – Elevate flavor and presentation with vibrant color and freshness.
Enjoy making your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with this simple yet tasty ingredient list!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Prepare Teriyaki Sauce
In a medium saucepan, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water. Add remaining sauce ingredients—1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, ginger, honey, and sesame oil. Heat over medium heat for about 5–7 minutes while stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and darkens. Remove from heat, let cool completely, and you’ll have a delicious teriyaki sauce for your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers.
Step 2: Marinate Chicken
Cube your boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and place them into a ziplock bag. Pour in half of the cooled teriyaki sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag, removing excess air, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For even better flavor, marinate for up to 4 hours. This process enhances the savory-sweet taste in your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers.
Step 3: Preheat Grill
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. A well-preheated grill is key for achieving those perfect grill marks and juicy chicken on your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers. This typically takes about 10 minutes, so it’s the perfect time to prepare your skewers.
Step 4: Skewer Chicken
Once marinated, remove the chicken from the fridge. Take your soaked wooden skewers and thread each skewer with the marinated chicken pieces, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Ensure to alternate the direction of the chicken on the skewer for a charming presentation. These skewers will be packed with flavor once grilled!
Step 5: Grill Chicken
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for approximately 20–30 minutes. Turn them every 3-4 minutes to achieve even cooking and to ensure they don’t stick. Baste with the remaining teriyaki sauce during the last few turns for a sticky, flavorful glaze. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C); this ensures perfectly cooked Teriyaki Chicken Skewers.
Step 6: Serve
Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, carefully remove the skewers from the grill using tongs. Let them rest for a few minutes, then serve your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers on a platter. Garnish with optional toppings like sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added color and flavor. Pair with your favorite sides, and enjoy a delightful homemade meal!
What to Serve with Easy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Let the tantalizing flavors of these juicy skewers inspire a delightful and well-rounded meal experience.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its delicate fragrance and fluffy texture beautifully complement the sweet and savory notes of the teriyaki glaze.
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Grilled Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant add a smoky depth and a nutritious crunch, creating a perfect balance.
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Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad, tossed with a light vinegar dressing, offers a bright contrast to the richness of the chicken skewers.
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Miso Soup: Warm and comforting, a bowl of miso soup adds an umami punch, harmonizing beautifully with the flavors of the skewers.
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Sesame Noodles: Creamy and nutty, sesame noodles serve as a delightful side that echoes the Asian flavors of the main dish.
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Plum Wine or Sake: Sipping on a glass of mildly sweet plum wine or chilled sake enhances the dining experience with a touch of authenticity.
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Mango Sorbet: Conclude your meal with a refreshing scoop of mango sorbet for a fruity finish that will tantalize the taste buds.
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Grilled Pineapple: Caramelized on the grill, its sweetness complements the savory chicken, making it an irresistible option for a tropical touch.
Embrace the versatility of these pairings to create a meal that feels special and satisfying, bringing joy to your dining table!
Storage Tips for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
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Fridge: Store leftover teriyaki chicken skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain juiciness, place a damp paper towel over the skewers before sealing.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen skewers in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the grill for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
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Teriyaki Sauce: Store any leftover sauce in the fridge for 2-3 days, or freeze it in ice cube trays for easy use later. This flexible approach adds flavor right when you need it!
Variations & Substitutions for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Feel free to get creative and tailor these skewers to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Vegetarian Option: Opt for tofu or cauliflower instead of chicken for a deliciously satisfying plant-based meal. Marinate similarly for great flavor!
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Seafood Delight: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a delightful twist. Grill until shrimp is pink and slightly charred for an unforgettable taste.
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Beefy Flavor: Use beef strips instead of chicken for a rich, meaty version. Marinate and grill the same way, ensuring they are tender and juicy.
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Add the Crunch: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or onion slices onto the skewers for an added crunch and vibrant color. They’ll grill beautifully alongside the chicken!
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Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or brush the skewers with sriracha or chili oil before grilling to spice things up!
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Sweet and Tangy: Introduce pineapple chunks on the skewers to add a sweet tang that balances the savory, making a tropical twist you’ll love.
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Peanut Sauce Glaze: Swap teriyaki sauce for a creamy peanut sauce for an innovative flavor kick. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken!
For even more scrumptious ideas, consider serving these skewers alongside some delightful grilled vegetables or a refreshing rice salad, just like in my Glazed Teriyaki Salmon recipe. Enjoy the versatility and make it your own!
Expert Tips for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
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Marination Time Matters: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful the skewers will be. Overnight is ideal, but 30 minutes works if you’re short on time.
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Skewers Prepared Right: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. This simple step can save your skewers!
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Check Chicken Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees juicy and safe-to-eat teriyaki chicken skewers.
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Don’t Skip Basting: For extra flavor and that sticky glaze, baste the chicken with the remaining teriyaki sauce during the last few turns of grilling.
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Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers. They grill beautifully alongside the chicken and add extra nutrition!
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Oven Adaptation Tips: If you’re indoors, preheat your oven to 400°F and place the skewers on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cook for 8-10 minutes per side for a delicious oven-baked version of teriyaki chicken skewers.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully; just marinate in a sealed ziplock bag with half of the teriyaki sauce. Additionally, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce up to 3 days ahead—store it in an airtight container in the fridge for the best quality. When you’re ready to grill, simply skewer the marinated chicken and grill as instructed, basting with the reserved sauce for a delectable finish. Following these steps ensures that your skewers remain just as delicious, making meal planning a breeze!
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for teriyaki skewers?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness and juiciness, making them perfect for soaking up the teriyaki flavor. However, chicken breasts can also be used if you prefer a leaner option.
How should I store leftover teriyaki chicken skewers?
Leftover teriyaki chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their juiciness, I recommend placing a damp paper towel over the skewers before sealing the container. This little trick works wonders!
Can I freeze teriyaki chicken skewers?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, lay the skewers flat on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1 hour until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the grill or in the oven.
What if my teriyaki sauce is too thick?
If you find your teriyaki sauce is thicker than you’d like, no problem! You can simply thin it out by adding a splash of water or low-sodium soy sauce while warming it up. Stir continuously until it reaches your desired consistency. This way, you’ll prevent it from overpowering the chicken while still enjoying that delicious flavor.
Are teriyaki chicken skewers safe for kids?
Yes, teriyaki chicken skewers are generally safe for kids, but it’s always important to check for any allergies. The ingredients in this recipe are family-friendly, though if you’re serving younger children, consider cutting the chicken into smaller pieces and ensuring everything is well-cooked to avoid choking hazards. Enjoy this dish as a fun and interactive meal!
How can I adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions?
To accommodate dietary preferences, you can swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, for those avoiding gluten, be sure to choose gluten-free soy sauce. If you’re making this for someone with allergies, double-check all ingredient labels—specifically for honey and sesame oil. With a few tweaks, everyone can enjoy these delicious teriyaki chicken skewers!
Irresistible Teriyaki Chicken Skewers for Perfect BBQ Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, dissolve cornstarch in water. Add remaining sauce ingredients and heat over medium, stirring until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cube chicken thighs and place in a ziplock bag. Pour in half of the cooled sauce, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium heat (350°F or 175°C), ensuring grates are clean and oiled.
- Remove chicken from fridge, thread on soaked skewers, leaving space for even cooking.
- Grill skewers for 20-30 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, basting with remaining sauce.
- Remove skewers from grill, let rest for a few minutes, then serve with optional toppings.