Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

The Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them an excellent choice for any gathering or family meal. These skewers offer a delightful twist on traditional grilled chicken, thanks to the rich teriyaki marinade that seeps in during the cooking process. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these skewers are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Flavorful Marinade: The homemade teriyaki sauce adds a delicious depth of flavor that elevates your chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these skewers on their own, over rice, or as part of a larger meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for parties, picnics, or weeknight dinners, they cater to everyone’s tastes.
• Healthy Choice: Made with fresh ingredients and lean chicken, they provide a nutritious option without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Medium saucepan
• Large ziplock bag
• Grill or grill pan
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for holding your marinated chicken together while grilling. Wooden skewers can be soaked in water to prevent burning.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for creating your teriyaki sauce. A sturdy saucepan ensures even heating and prevents scorching.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides that smoky flavor we’re looking for in grilled chicken. A good grill allows for even cooking and beautiful grill marks.

Ingredients

For the most delicious marinated teriyaki chicken grilled to perfection, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Skewers

• 2 lbs. chicken thighs (or breasts) (cut into 1 cubes)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 cup water
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tbsp fresh ginger (minced)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• 8 skewers
• sesame seeds
• chopped green onion

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

First make the sauce by combining cornstarch and water in a small bowl. In a medium saucepan, add remaining ingredients along with the cornstarch/water mixture. Stirring frequently, bring sauce to a simmer. Cook until sauce lightly thickens; it should be dark brown. Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool completely.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Once the sauce is completely cooled, place cubed chicken in a large ziplock bag. Pour half of the sauce over the chicken and gently shake to coat evenly. Let chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes while placing remaining sauce aside for later use.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

When ready to cook, skewer your marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. Preheat your grill to medium heat.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Once your grill is hot, place skewers on lightly oiled grill grates. Turn them every 3-4 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165 degrees), approximately 20-30 minutes total. During the last few turns, baste with remaining teriyaki sauce.

Step 5: Serve Your Skewers

Remove skewers from grill and serve them hot with chopped green onion sprinkled on top and optional sesame seeds for added crunch.

Enjoy your flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Skewers!

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Teriyaki chicken skewers are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these suggestions will elevate your meal.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a classic combination. The rice absorbs the flavorful teriyaki sauce perfectly.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a light and fresh option, serve the chicken skewers in crisp lettuce leaves. Add some shredded carrots and bell peppers for extra crunch.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair your skewers with an assortment of grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. This adds color and nutrition to your plate.

As a Salad Topper

• Slice the grilled chicken and use it as a topping for mixed greens. Drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce or sesame dressing for added flavor.

On a Skewer Platter

• Create an impressive platter by serving several different types of skewers. Include other proteins like beef or lamb for variety.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer additional dipping sauces, such as sweet chili sauce or soy sauce, on the side for guests to customize their flavors.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

To ensure your teriyaki chicken skewers are always delicious, follow these helpful tips that will make your grilling experience even better.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer than 30 minutes enhances flavor absorption. Marinate for up to 2 hours if possible.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger provide vibrant flavors that dried versions cannot match. Always opt for fresh when preparing marinades.

• Monitor Grill Temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium heat before placing the skewers on it. This helps achieve perfect cooking without burning.

• Baste Generously: During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the skewers with remaining sauce to add moisture and flavor right before serving.

• Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes prior to grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked through (165 degrees Fahrenheit). This guarantees safety and perfect texture.

Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Pairing side dishes with teriyaki chicken skewers can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice dish adds a touch of sweetness that complements the savory flavors of teriyaki chicken beautifully.

2. Stir-Fried Broccoli: Quick stir-fried broccoli provides a crunchy texture and vibrant color that balances out the tenderness of the skewered chicken.

3. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles tossed in a light dressing create an enjoyable contrast to warm grilled skewers.

4. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a light vinaigrette offers freshness and nutrition alongside your meal.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs well with teriyaki flavors and adds heartiness to your plate.

6. Pickled Vegetables: A small serving of pickled veggies introduces tanginess that cuts through richness, making it an ideal palate cleanser between bites.

7. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods provide protein and make for a fun finger food side dish that everyone can enjoy while waiting for their meal.

8. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds refreshing crunch and complementary flavors to your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Teriyaki Chicken Skewers is simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Bold Marinade Missteps: Ensure you marinate the chicken long enough. A minimum of 30 minutes is essential to infuse flavor, but overnight is even better for maximum taste.
• Bold Ignoring Temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Maintain a medium heat for even cooking.
• Bold Skewer Selection: Using wooden skewers without soaking them can lead to burning. Always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Bold Forgetting Basting: Skipping the basting step during grilling means missing out on extra flavor. Apply the reserved sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Bold Neglecting Rest Time: Cutting into the skewers immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Teriyaki Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

• Place cooled skewers in freezer-safe bags or airtight containers.
• Properly stored, they can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Arrange skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Sauté skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Teriyaki Chicken Skewers.

What is the best chicken cut for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?

Chicken thighs are ideal due to their moisture and flavor, but chicken breasts also work well if preferred.

Can I make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day prior and store it in the fridge until ready to grill.

How do I know when my Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I use vegetables with my Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini make great additions and can be grilled alongside the chicken.

Are there any substitutes for soy sauce in Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?

You can use tamari or coconut aminos as gluten-free alternatives that still provide that savory flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are not only flavorful but also versatile, making them perfect for any gathering or meal prep. Feel free to customize them with your favorite vegetables or serve them with different sides like rice or salads. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!