Chicken Teriyaki Skewers: Master Your Grilling Technique

Name: Chicken Teriyaki Skewers: Master Your Grilling Technique
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon water; Sesame seeds for garnish; Green onions, chopped for garnish

June 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something magical about firing up the grill and cooking outdoors, isn’t there? The smoky aroma wafting through the air, the sound of sizzling meat, and the anticipation of that first bite all combine to create an experience that’s hard to beat. One of my absolute favorite dishes to make on the grill is chicken teriyaki skewers. They’re not just delicious; they’re also incredibly fun to prepare! The marinated chicken cubes soak up all those savory flavors, and when they’re grilled to perfection, they become a sweet and tangy delight that’s hard to resist. Trust me, your friends and family will be clamoring for seconds, and you’ll feel like a grill master in no time. Let’s dive into making the best chicken teriyaki skewers you’ve ever tasted!

chicken teriyaki skewers - detail 1

Ingredients List

For the best chicken teriyaki skewers, you’ll want to gather the following ingredients, ensuring each is fresh and ready to shine:

1.5 lbs chicken breast: Cut into 1-inch cubes. Choose high-quality, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the juiciest results.
1/2 cup soy sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness while still packing in that umami flavor.
1/4 cup honey: Use pure honey for the best sweetness and depth. This balances the salty soy sauce beautifully.
1/4 cup rice vinegar: This adds a delightful tang; look for unseasoned rice vinegar for the most authentic flavor.
2 tablespoons sesame oil: Toasted sesame oil brings a rich, nutty flavor. Don’t skip this ingredient; it’s essential!
2 cloves garlic: Minced. Fresh garlic is key to enhancing the overall flavor profile, so stick with fresh rather than powdered.
1 tablespoon ginger: Minced. Fresh ginger adds a lovely warmth and zest that complements the teriyaki sauce.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: This will help thicken the teriyaki sauce later, giving it that perfect cling to the chicken.
1 tablespoon water: To mix with the cornstarch for thickening.
Sesame seeds: For garnish. Toasted sesame seeds add a nice crunch and visual appeal.
Green onions: Chopped for garnish. These not only add color but also a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to creating mouthwatering chicken teriyaki skewers that will impress everyone at your next BBQ!

How to Prepare Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s get down to the fun part: preparing your chicken teriyaki skewers! This process is straightforward, but each step is essential for achieving that mouthwatering flavor and perfect texture.

Marinating the Chicken

First things first, marinating the chicken is crucial. Start by combining the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Give it a good whisk to blend everything together. The balance of sweet and savory is what makes this marinade sing! Now, add your chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge. I recommend letting it marinate for at least one hour, but if you can swing it, overnight is best. This allows those flavors to really penetrate the chicken, making each bite a burst of deliciousness.

Preparing the Skewers

While your chicken is soaking up all that flavor, it’s time to prep your skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill and helps keep the chicken juicy. Once they’re soaked, it’s time to thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers. Aim for about 4-5 pieces per skewer, leaving a little space between each cube to ensure even cooking. This technique not only looks great but also allows the heat to circulate around the chicken, ensuring everything cooks evenly. Be cautious, though! Raw chicken can be a bit slippery, so handle with care.

Grilling the Skewers

Now, let’s fire up that grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat. This is key for achieving those beautiful grill marks while keeping the chicken juicy. Once the grill is hot, place your skewers on the grates. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and has nice caramelization on the outside. Trust me, the smell will be irresistible!

Making the Teriyaki Sauce

While your skewers are grilling, let’s make the teriyaki sauce to drizzle on top. Take the remaining marinade you set aside earlier, and pour it into a small saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce. Once the marinade is simmering, slowly whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Keep cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency—it should cling beautifully to the chicken without being too runny. Once it’s ready, brush it over your skewers just before serving for that extra flavor boost!

Tips for Success

Getting the perfect chicken teriyaki skewers is all about attention to detail and a few insider tips I’ve picked up along the way. Trust me, these little tricks can elevate your dish from good to absolutely amazing!

Marination Time is Key: Don’t rush the marination process! While an hour will do the trick, letting the chicken sit overnight allows the flavors to deepen and truly infuse into the meat. It’s worth the wait!

Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: When threading the chicken onto the skewers, make sure to leave a little space between each piece. This not only looks great but also ensures even cooking and that gorgeous char on all sides.

Temperature Matters: Preheat your grill properly! A medium-high heat is ideal for achieving that perfect sear while keeping the inside juicy. If the grill isn’t hot enough, the chicken can end up steaming instead of grilling.

Use a Meat Thermometer: If you’re unsure whether your chicken is cooked through, a meat thermometer is your best friend. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure safety without overcooking.

Watch the Sauce: When making the teriyaki sauce, keep stirring while it thickens. If it cooks too long, it can turn into a sticky mess. You want it to be thick enough to coat the chicken but still pourable.

Experiment with Garnishes: Don’t shy away from being creative with your garnishes! A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and fresh chopped green onions adds not only flavor but also a pop of color that makes the dish visually appealing.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to crafting chicken teriyaki skewers that will impress everyone at your gathering. Happy grilling!

Variations of Chicken Teriyaki Skewers

If you’re looking to shake things up a bit, the beauty of chicken teriyaki skewers is their versatility! Trust me, you can switch up proteins or add in some colorful vegetables to create new flavor profiles that’ll keep everyone excited. Here are a few delicious variations to inspire your next grilling adventure:

Switching Up the Protein

While chicken is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to experiment with other proteins:

Pork Tenderloin: Cut into 1-inch cubes, pork tenderloin provides a slightly sweeter flavor that pairs beautifully with the teriyaki sauce.
Beef: Use sirloin or flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain. Marinate just like the chicken for a rich, savory take on skewers.
Tofu: For a vegetarian option, firm tofu works wonders! Press it to remove excess moisture, then marinate and grill for a delectable, plant-based dish.
Shrimp: Skewered shrimp cook quickly and soak up the teriyaki flavors beautifully. Just be careful not to overcook them!

Adding Vegetables

Incorporating vegetables into your skewers not only adds color but also enhances the overall flavor and texture. Here are some tasty options:

Pineapple: Fresh pineapple chunks caramelize wonderfully on the grill, adding a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory chicken.
Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers for a vibrant look. They add a nice crunch and sweetness!
Zucchini: Cut into thick slices or half-moons, zucchini grills beautifully and soaks up the marinade’s flavors.
Onions: Red or yellow onions, cut into wedges, become sweet and tender when grilled. They pair perfectly with the chicken.

Flavor Twists

If you want to get adventurous with flavors, consider these fun twists:

Spicy Teriyaki: Add some sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a kick of heat!
Citrus Zest: Incorporate lime or orange zest into the marinade for a bright, zesty flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey.
Herbs: Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the marinade for a fresh twist that elevates the dish.

With these variations, your chicken teriyaki skewers can be reinvented time and again, ensuring that every grilling session is a new and exciting experience. Get creative, mix and match, and enjoy the wonderful flavors you can create!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving chicken teriyaki skewers, presentation and pairing are key to elevating the entire meal experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes!

Perfect Pairings

To complement the rich flavors of your chicken teriyaki skewers, consider serving them with:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice is the perfect base for soaking up the delicious teriyaki sauce. I love to fluff it with a fork and add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flair.
Grilled Vegetables: A medley of colorful grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus not only adds vibrant colors to your plate but also enhances the meal with healthy options.
Asian Noodle Salad: A chilled noodle salad with rice noodles, cucumbers, carrots, and a light sesame dressing makes for a refreshing side that balances the warmth of the skewers.

Presentation Ideas

Now, let’s talk about how to make your chicken teriyaki skewers shine on the table:

Beautiful Plating: Arrange the skewers on a large platter, and drizzle the thickened teriyaki sauce over them. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for that pop of color.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A few sprigs of cilantro or fresh basil not only add a burst of freshness but also provide a lovely visual contrast against the golden-brown chicken.
Use Bamboo Skewers: If you’re feeling fancy, consider using decorative bamboo skewers instead of standard ones. They add an elegant touch and bring a bit of flair to your presentation.

With these side dish suggestions and presentation tips, your chicken teriyaki skewers will be the star of the meal. Trust me, it’s all about making the food look as good as it tastes!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

It’s important to note that the nutritional information provided for chicken teriyaki skewers can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Factors like the type of chicken, soy sauce, and any added garnishes can influence the overall nutritional profile. While I strive to give you a good estimate, please keep in mind that these numbers are not provided precisely. For the most accurate information, consider calculating the nutrition based on your exact ingredients and serving sizes. Enjoy cooking and savoring every delicious bite!

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for the teriyaki skewers?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic choice because they’re juicier and more flavorful than breasts. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. The rich flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce!

Q2. How can I make the teriyaki sauce spicier?
If you’re looking for a bit of heat, consider adding sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also mix in some freshly grated chili or a dash of hot sauce when making the teriyaki sauce. Just adjust to your spice tolerance, and you’ll have a deliciously spicy twist!

Q3. What should I do if I don’t have wooden skewers?
No worries! If you don’t have wooden skewers, you can use metal skewers instead. They’re reusable and don’t require soaking. Just be careful, as they can get quite hot on the grill! Alternatively, you can grill the marinated chicken in a grill basket to keep everything contained.

Q4. Can I prepare the chicken teriyaki skewers ahead of time?
Definitely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to thread the chicken onto the skewers and grill them right before serving for the best taste and texture. Prepping ahead makes it a breeze when you’re ready to cook!

Q5. What other vegetables can I grill with the chicken skewers?
You can get creative with vegetables! Bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and even chunks of onion all work wonderfully. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking, and consider marinating them in the same teriyaki sauce for extra flavor!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.