Let me tell you, grilled chicken teriyaki skewers are one of the simplest and most delicious dishes you can whip up for any occasion! Seriously, whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer barbecue or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special, these skewers have got you covered. The sweet and savory flavor of teriyaki sauce clings to tender chicken, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.
What I love most about this recipe is how beginner-friendly it is! You don’t need fancy culinary skills to nail this one. I remember the first time I made these skewers. I was a little nervous about grilling, but once I got started, I realized it was as easy as pie! Or should I say, as easy as skewering chicken? It’s all about mixing a few simple ingredients, letting the chicken soak up that flavor, and then grilling it to perfection. Plus, they’re gluten-free, which is a bonus for anyone watching their diet.
So, grab your skewers and let’s make some grilled chicken teriyaki skewers that will have your friends and family begging for seconds. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a go-to dish in your kitchen!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
These ingredients are simple and easy to find at your local grocery store. The chicken breast is the star of the show, providing a lean protein base that soaks up all that delicious teriyaki flavor. The soy sauce and brown sugar create the perfect sweet and salty marinade, while the rice vinegar and sesame oil add a lovely depth of flavor. Don’t skip on the garlic and ginger; they bring a fresh, zesty kick that really makes these skewers shine!
If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This little step prevents them from burning and ensures your chicken threads on smoothly. Trust me, your skewers will thank you for it!
How to Prepare Chicken Teriyaki Skewers
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the steps for making these mouthwatering chicken teriyaki skewers! I promise, it’s a breeze. Just follow along, and you’ll be grilling like a pro in no time!
Soaking the Skewers
First things first, if you’re using wooden skewers, it’s super important to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. Why? Well, this little step helps prevent them from burning on the grill. No one wants charred skewers ruining their delicious chicken! Just pop them in a bowl of water while you prep everything else. It’s easy peasy!
Making the Marinade
Next up, let’s whip up that flavorful marinade! In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Give it a good stir until the brown sugar has dissolved and all those lovely flavors are combined. This is what makes your chicken teriyaki skewers sing! The sweet and savory mix is what makes every bite so irresistible. Trust me; you’ll want to sneak a taste!
Marinating the Chicken
Now, it’s time to add the chicken to the marinade. Toss those bite-sized pieces right into the bowl, making sure they’re all well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. If you have extra time, letting it marinate longer really amps up the flavor. Think of it like a little spa day for your chicken. Yum!
Preparing the Grill
While the chicken is soaking up all that goodness, go ahead and preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step is crucial because a hot grill ensures that your chicken gets that beautiful char and cooks evenly. If you can’t wait to get grilling, now’s a good time to sneak a peek at your marinade again. It’s going to be worth it!
Threading the Chicken on Skewers
Once your chicken is nicely marinated, it’s time to thread it onto those skewers! Grab your soaked wooden skewers or metal ones, and carefully push the chicken pieces onto the skewers. I like to leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking and a nice char. It’s like giving them room to breathe! Just don’t overcrowd them – we want them to grill beautifully.
Grilling the Skewers
Now comes the fun part: grilling! Place your skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’ll want to keep an eye on them and flip them halfway through to get that perfect golden color. To make sure they’re safe to eat, check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, just cut one piece open to check if it’s cooked through. If it’s juicy and no longer pink, you’re all set!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your grilled chicken teriyaki skewers turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some handy tips to keep in mind as you cook:
- Don’t rush the marinade: The longer you can let the chicken soak in that delicious marinade, the better! If you can, aim for at least an hour, or even overnight in the fridge. It really helps the flavors penetrate the chicken.
- Watch your grill temperature: If the grill is too hot, your chicken can burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. Medium-high heat is just right for getting that nice char without overcooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: To avoid any uncertainty about doneness, invest in a meat thermometer. It’s the best way to ensure your chicken reaches that safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers: Leave a little space between each piece of chicken on your skewers. This allows the heat to circulate and cook everything evenly, giving you that juicy, perfectly grilled chicken!
- Brush with marinade: If you have any leftover marinade (that hasn’t touched raw chicken), brush it on the skewers while grilling for an extra boost of flavor. Just don’t use any marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken to keep things safe!
Following these tips will make your chicken teriyaki skewers a hit every time. Happy grilling!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk numbers! Here’s what you can expect from each serving of these delicious grilled chicken teriyaki skewers:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 22g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. But overall, these skewers are a great source of protein and a tasty option if you’re looking for something satisfying yet simple. Enjoy your healthy cooking adventure!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for these skewers?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic option if you prefer a juicier piece of meat. They tend to be a bit more forgiving when it comes to grilling and can add extra flavor to your chicken teriyaki skewers. Just make sure to cut them into similar bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Q2: What can I serve with chicken teriyaki skewers?
These skewers pair beautifully with a variety of sides! You can serve them over a bed of fluffy white rice, steamed vegetables, or even a crunchy salad. For a complete Japanese-inspired meal, consider adding some miso soup or a side of edamame. Yum!
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so tasty!), let them cool down to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the microwave or on the grill to enjoy them again!
Q4: Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Definitely! You can mix up the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before adding your chicken when you’re ready to cook. This makes meal prep super easy, especially for busy weeknights!
Q5: Are there any gluten-free alternatives for the soy sauce?
Yes! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce. It has a similar flavor profile and works perfectly in this chicken teriyaki skewers recipe. Enjoy your cooking without any worries!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: You can whip these skewers up in under an hour, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of sweet and savory teriyaki marinade makes every bite a burst of flavor that everyone will love.
- Gluten-Free: Using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy this tasty dish without worry.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These skewers are great for meal prep! Just marinate ahead of time and grill when you’re ready to eat.
- Fun for Everyone: Skewering the chicken is a fun activity, making this a great dish to prepare with family or friends!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious grilled chicken teriyaki skewers ready, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them for a complete meal! Trust me, the right sides can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable.
One of my favorite options is to serve these skewers over a fluffy bed of steamed white rice. The rice soaks up any extra teriyaki sauce and balances out the flavors beautifully. You can also try brown rice or jasmine rice for a little variety!
If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, a side of crunchy, fresh vegetables works wonders. Think steamed broccoli, snap peas, or even a vibrant stir-fry with bell peppers and carrots. These add a pop of color and nutrition to your plate!
For an extra touch of flavor, consider whipping up a simple cucumber salad. Just slice up some cucumbers, toss them with a dash of rice vinegar, a pinch of salt, and sprinkle some sesame seeds on top. It’s refreshing and complements the teriyaki skewers perfectly.
Feeling a bit adventurous? You can also serve the skewers with some homemade sushi rolls or a side of miso soup for a full Japanese-inspired feast. It’s a fun way to impress your guests and bring a little of that restaurant flair right to your dinner table!
Whatever you choose, don’t forget to drizzle a little extra teriyaki sauce over the top of everything for that extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to properly store any leftovers you might have after enjoying your delicious grilled chicken teriyaki skewers. First off, if you’re like me, you might not have any leftovers because they’re just that good! But just in case, here’s what to do:
Let the skewers cool down to room temperature before you store them. This step is super important because putting hot food directly into the fridge can create condensation, making everything soggy. Once they’ve cooled, transfer the skewers to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the grill or a stovetop skillet if you want to maintain that lovely grilled flavor and texture. Just preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat, and warm the skewers for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally. This way, they’ll get a nice little char again, which is always a plus!
If you’re in a rush, you can also pop them in the microwave. Just place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Heat for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking to ensure they’re heated through but not overcooked.
Whichever method you choose, just remember that a little care in reheating goes a long way in keeping those tasty flavors intact. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
For more information on the health benefits of chicken, you can check out this Healthline article.
To learn more about teriyaki sauce and its origins, visit this The Spruce Eats page.
Print
Chicken Teriyaki Skewers: 5 Easy Steps for Beginners!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Grilled chicken teriyaki skewers are a simple and delicious dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill skewers for 5-7 minutes on each side or until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot with rice or vegetables.
Notes
- Check chicken is fully cooked by ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Marinating longer enhances the flavor.
- For extra flavor, brush skewers with leftover marinade while grilling.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken teriyaki skewers, grilled chicken, easy recipes, beginner cooking
