Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser with its tender chicken, mouthwatering homemade teriyaki sauce, and smoky grilled flavor. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also keeps it juicy and succulent. The optional toppings of sesame seeds and green onions add an extra burst of flavor and texture, making this dish even more delightful. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or hosting a barbecue, these Teriyaki Chicken Skewers will surely impress everyone.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. chicken thighs (or breasts) cut into 1″ cubes

• Teriyaki Sauce/Marinade:

  • 2 tablespoon cornstarch

  • 1 cup water

  • ⅓ cup brown sugar

  • ⅓ cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

  • ½ tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

  • 1 tablespoon honey

  • ½ teaspoon sesame oil

• 8 skewers

• Optional Topping:

  • Sesame seeds

  • Chopped green onion

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water. In a medium saucepan, add the remaining ingredients along with the cornstarch-water mixture. Stir frequently and bring the sauce to a simmer. Cook until the sauce lightly thickens and turns a dark brown color. Once thickened, remove the sauce from heat and let it cool completely (you can place it in the fridge to speed up the cooling process).

2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the cubed chicken into a large ziplock bag and pour half of the cooled teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Seal the bag and gently shake it to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Set the remaining sauce aside for later.

3. Grill the Skewers: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers. Lightly oil the grill grates and place the skewers on the grill. Cook the chicken, turning every 3-4 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 20-30 minutes). During the last few turns, baste the chicken with the remaining teriyaki sauce.

4. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill. Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions for added flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 people

• Prep Time: 1 hour

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating.

• Different Meat: This recipe works well with beef, or shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for each type of meat.

• Spicy Teriyaki: Add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover teriyaki chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken skewers in the microwave or on a grill for a few minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. However, chicken thighs are more tender and flavorful, making them a better choice for grilling.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, marinate it for 1-2 hours.

3. Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and let it cool completely before using.

4. Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce instead of making my own?

Yes, store-bought teriyaki sauce can be used, but homemade sauce gives a more authentic and fresh flavor.

5. Can I bake these chicken skewers instead of grilling them?

Yes, you can bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

6. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before grilling.

7. How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

8. What can I serve with Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?

These skewers go well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple green salad.

9. Can I use other vegetables on the skewers?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers. Just make sure to cook the vegetables for a similar amount of time as the chicken.

10. How can I make the teriyaki sauce thicker?

If you’d like a thicker sauce, you can add a little more cornstarch (1 teaspoon at a time) to achieve your desired consistency.

Conclusion

These Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are the perfect combination of savory and sweet, with a rich homemade teriyaki marinade that enhances the grilled chicken. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick grilling method, you can create a delicious and impressive meal. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a barbecue, these skewers are sure to be a hit!