Name: Savory Teriyaki Chicken Skewers That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (Thighs ensure juicy skewers.); 4-6 skewers (Soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning.); 1/2 cup brown sugar (Light or dark sugar works well.); 1/2 cup soy sauce (Consider low sodium for better control over saltiness.); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (Mix with water first.); 1/4 cup water (Essential for mixing with cornstarch.); 2 cloves garlic (Freshly minced.); 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (Grated.); 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (Substitute with white wine vinegar if needed.); 2 tablespoons honey (Adds extra sweetness.); 1 tablespoon sesame oil (High-quality varieties are best.); 2 green onions (Chopped.); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (Optional for garnish.)

The sweet, smoky aroma of grilled chicken fills the air as I flip these Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, a dish that always brings a smile to my face. These skewers are a delightful fusion of tender, marinated chicken drizzled in a sticky teriyaki sauce, delivering an explosion of flavor that perfectly pairs with a steaming bowl of rice. Not only are they incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners, but they also shine at gatherings, leaving friends and family raving about your culinary skills. Plus, they work beautifully with a variety of veggies, so you can customize them to suit your taste. Are you ready to fire up the grill and create a meal everyone will love?

Why are Teriyaki Chicken Skewers a Must-Try?

Flavorful Bliss: These skewers bring a delicious blend of sweet and savory that will excite your taste buds. The teriyaki sauce, with its perfect balance of soy, ginger, and honey, creates a mouthwatering glaze that’s hard to resist.

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip them up in no time! Simply marinate, skewer, and grill – it’s cooking made easy.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or barbecues, they are sure to impress your guests. Serve them alongside steamed rice and grilled veggies for a complete meal everyone will rave about.

Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize these skewers by adding your choice of colorful vegetables or even swapping chicken for tofu to cater to different diets.

Make-Ahead Option: Ideal for busy schedules, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and even freeze the chicken for those spontaneous grill nights!

If you’re craving more delicious grilled options, try out our Grilled Chicken Sweet for a hearty twist or the refreshing Greek Chicken Meatballs.

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Ingredients

Ready to create some delicious Teriyaki Chicken Skewers? Here’s what you’ll need!

For the Skewers
• Chicken Thighs/Breasts – Opt for boneless, skinless meat; thighs ensure juicy skewers.
• Skewers – Choose wooden or metal; soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning while grilling.

For the Teriyaki Sauce
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness; both light and dark work well to deepen the flavor.
• Soy Sauce – Provides that classic umami flavor; consider low sodium for better control over saltiness.
• Cornstarch – Thickens your teriyaki sauce into a delightful glaze; mix it with water first.
• Water – Essential for combining with cornstarch to create the sauce.
• Garlic Cloves – Freshly minced will enhance the sauce with an aromatic punch.
• Fresh Ginger – Brings warmth and spice; fresh is preferred, but ground works in a pinch.
• Rice Vinegar – Offers a touch of acidity; substitute with white wine vinegar if needed.
• Honey – Adds extra sweetness and helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
• Sesame Oil – Infuses a rich, nutty flavor; use high-quality varieties for the best results.

For Garnishing
• Green Onion (optional) – Adds a pop of color and freshness on top.
• Sesame Seeds (optional) – Elevate the presentation and provide a delightful crunch.

With these ingredients, you’re all set to make scrumptious Teriyaki Chicken Skewers that everyone will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine water and cornstarch, stirring well to dissolve. Add brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Cook over medium heat while stirring continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle simmer and thickens into a glossy glaze, approximately 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Cut the boneless chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized cubes and place them in a ziplock bag. Pour in half of the cooled teriyaki sauce, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. Reserve the remaining sauce for basting and serving later.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F to 400°F). If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are well-lit and ashy. To prevent sticking, oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil, using tongs. A well-prepped grill will give your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers that delightful char and smoky flavor.

Step 4: Skewer the Chicken
After marination, remove the chicken from the fridge and thread the marinated cubes onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Arrange them neatly on a plate, ready to transfer to the grill. These skewers will cook beautifully, so be sure not to crowd them for optimum grilling.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 20-30 minutes. Turn them every 3-4 minutes for even cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the skewers with the reserved teriyaki sauce to develop a rich, sticky glaze that enhances the flavor of your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with chopped green onions and a sprinkling of sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation. Serve these delicious skewers alongside steamed rice and your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and make this recipe truly your own!

Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for tofu, marinating it to soak up all that zesty flavor.
Veggie Delight: Thread colorful bell peppers, onions, or zucchini onto the skewers for added crunch and nutrition. You’ll love the vibrant flavors!
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy some heat, mix a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes into the marinade for a fiery finish. Spice up your meal!
Pineapple Bliss: Add chunks of fresh pineapple to the skewers for a sweet contrast that beautifully complements the teriyaki sauce. It’s a tropical treat!
Soy-Free Sauce: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten-free, soy-free option that still delivers on flavor. Perfect for sensitive tummies!
Garlic Lovers: Enhance the marinade with extra minced garlic or even roasted garlic for an aromatic infusion. Every bite will be bursting with flavor!
Balsamic Teriyaki: For a unique twist, substitute rice vinegar with balsamic vinegar in the sauce, adding depth to the flavors. It’s an unexpected yet delightful change!

If you want to keep the flavor going beyond these skewers, don’t miss out on our Garlic Parmesan Chicken for a comforting pasta dish or our tasty Teriyaki Chicken Rice for a hearty meal!

How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Fridge: Store cooked Teriyaki Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their tenderness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the marinated chicken skewers before grilling. Place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling.

Reheating: To reheat leftovers, grill on medium heat for 5-7 minutes, basting with reserved teriyaki sauce, or microwave for a quick option, ensuring they are heated thoroughly.

Make-Ahead Tip: The teriyaki sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making dinner prep even easier!

What to Serve with Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Experience the delight of crafting a complete meal around these mouthwatering skewers, where each bite brings a symphony of flavors.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy, fragrant rice is the perfect canvas for soaking up the sweet-tangy teriyaki sauce, enhancing every flavorful bite.
Grilled Vegetables: Colorful, charred veggies like bell peppers and zucchini offer a satisfying crunch and fresh contrast to the richness of the skewers, making for a balanced plate.
Cucumber Salad: Light, crisp, and refreshing, a cucumber salad with a hint of rice vinegar can lighten the meal while providing a cool balance to the warm, grilled chicken.
Coleslaw: The creamy crunch of coleslaw complements the savory sweetness of the teriyaki chicken, adding a delightful textural contrast that keeps your meal exciting.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds a comforting umami richness, perfectly enveloping the dish in soothing flavors while keeping the experience warm and inviting.
Sake or Green Tea: Quench your thirst with a smooth glass of sake, which pairs beautifully with these skewers, or opt for a refreshing cup of green tea for a light finish.
Sesame Noodles: These noodles offer a delightful complement, marrying easy flavors and textures that resonate well with the skewers, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.

Expert Tips for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Marinate Longer: For even better flavor, marinate the chicken for 1 hour or up to overnight; this allows the marinade to fully penetrate the meat.
Keep It Oiled: Apply oil to the grill grates before cooking; this prevents the Teriyaki Chicken Skewers from sticking, ensuring they come off easily and maintain their juicy texture.
Use a Thermometer: Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to confirm doneness; aim for 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Prevent Burning: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to avoid burning and achieve that perfect char.
Reserve Sauce: Always keep some teriyaki sauce aside for basting during the last few minutes of grilling; this enhances the glaze and flavor without cross-contaminating.

Make Ahead Options

These Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are perfect for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to enjoy delicious flavors without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the teriyaki sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the fridge, ensuring it absorbs all that wonderful flavor. To maintain quality, be sure to use fresh chicken and seal it tightly in a ziplock bag to prevent air exposure. When you’re ready to serve, simply skewer the marinated chicken and grill it fresh, basting with the reserved sauce during cooking for that lush glaze. Enjoy hassle-free cooking with these make-ahead options!

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness, but boneless skinless chicken breasts work well too. The key is to choose a cut that will remain tender while grilling.

How long can I store cooked Teriyaki Chicken Skewers in the fridge?
Cooked Teriyaki Chicken Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool down before sealing to maintain their flavor and moisture.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken skewers?
Very! To freeze, place the marinated chicken skewers in a freezer-safe bag, making sure to squeeze out excess air. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before grilling for best results.

What should I do if my chicken is burning on the grill?
If you find that your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are burning, it’s often due to the grill being too hot or not enough oil on the grates. Lower the fire or move the skewers to a cooler part of the grill. Also, basting with a bit of reserved sauce can help keep them moist.

Are these skewers suitable for a gluten-free diet?
You can easily make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce, which is naturally gluten-free. Always check labels for any other sauces or ingredients you might use, ensuring they fit your dietary needs.

Can I prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance? How long will it last?
Yes, you can! I recommend making the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It saves time and makes your dinner prep a breeze!