Teriyaki chicken skewers have been my go-to for quick dinners since I was a kid. I remember my mom making them for backyard barbecues, the sweet and savory aroma of the chicken caramelizing on the grill filling the air. These grilled teriyaki chicken skewers are incredibly easy to whip up, even on a busy weeknight. The chicken comes out so tender and juicy, coated in that addictive homemade teriyaki sauce. You’ll find yourself making these teriyaki chicken skewers on a stick again and again. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
These aren’t just any chicken skewers; they’re a taste of summer perfection. Here’s why you’ll be making them all the time:
- Incredibly Flavorful: The homemade teriyaki chicken skewers marinade is the star, infusing every bite with savory-sweet goodness.
- Super Quick Prep: You can have these ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for spontaneous dinners.
- Crowd-Pleaser Guaranteed: Everyone loves teriyaki chicken on a stick, making them ideal for parties and family meals.
- Versatile & Customizable: Easily swap out veggies or add pineapple for a fresh twist.
- Healthy Option: These are relatively healthy teriyaki chicken skewers, packed with protein and lean chicken.
- Simple to Make: Seriously, these easy teriyaki chicken skewers are foolproof, even for beginner cooks.
- Authentic Taste: The combination of sesame oil, ginger, and garlic in the marinade gives them a fantastic homemade teriyaki chicken skewers flavor.
Ingredients for Homemade Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Putting together these homemade teriyaki chicken skewers is a breeze with just a few key ingredients. The foundation of our amazing chicken teriyaki skewers marinade comes from the teriyaki sauce itself, which provides that perfect sweet and savory balance. I always use boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay incredibly moist and tender when grilled. For the marinade, we’ll combine the teriyaki sauce with fragrant aromatics like fresh minced ginger and garlic, plus a touch of nutty sesame oil to really deepen the flavor profile. Don’t forget your colorful veggies like bell pepper and onion, cut into bite-sized chunks that will thread beautifully onto the skewers alongside the chicken. And of course, you’ll need skewers – either wooden ones soaked in water or metal ones ready to go!
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs – cut into 1 to 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce – the base for our delicious marinade
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil – adds a wonderful nutty depth
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced – for a zesty kick
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced – essential for that savory punch
- 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into chunks – adds sweetness and color
- 1 small onion, cut into chunks – for a mild, sweet bite
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds – for garnish and a nutty crunch
- Skewers (wooden or metal) – about 8-10
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Now for the fun part – putting together these fantastic teriyaki chicken skewers! It’s a simple process that yields incredibly delicious results. First things first, get your grill or grill pan nice and hot over medium-high heat. This ensures a great sear on the chicken and veggies. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaking in water for at least 30 minutes; this is a crucial step to prevent them from burning up on the grill.
- Step 1: Begin by cutting your marinated chicken thighs into uniform 1 to 1.5-inch pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken teriyaki skewers marinade ingredients: teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk it all together until well combined.
- Step 3: Add the cut chicken pieces to the marinade. Toss them gently to ensure every piece is coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. For an even deeper flavor, you can marinate them in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight.
- Step 4: While the chicken marinates, prepare your vegetables. Cut the bell pepper and onion into chunks that are roughly the same size as your chicken pieces. This ensures they cook at a similar rate.
- Step 5: Begin threading your skewers. Alternate pieces of marinated chicken with the vegetable chunks. Don’t pack them too tightly; leave a little space between each piece so the heat can circulate and cook everything through.
- Step 6: Once your skewers are assembled and the grill is hot, carefully place them onto the grill grates. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning them every few minutes to ensure even browning and cooking. You’ll notice the edges of the chicken starting to caramelize and the vegetables softening.
- Step 7: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear.
- Step 8: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Garnish generously with sesame seeds for a lovely nutty crunch and visual appeal. Let them rest for a minute or two before serving. That irresistible aroma of the chicken skewers teriyaki sauce is sure to make everyone eager to dig in!
Pro Tips for the Best Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
I’ve made these skewers countless times, and these little tricks really elevate them from good to absolutely amazing. They ensure tender, flavorful chicken every single time!
- Always use chicken thighs for maximum juiciness; breast meat can dry out quickly on the grill.
- Don’t skip soaking your wooden skewers! It’s a simple step that prevents flare-ups and burnt sticks.
- If you have time, marinating the chicken overnight yields an even deeper, more complex flavor.
- Grill over medium-high heat, not high heat, to get that nice caramelization without burning the sauce too fast.
What’s the secret to perfect teriyaki chicken skewers?
The real secret lies in the marinade and the cut of chicken. Using chicken thighs and allowing them to marinate properly ensures incredibly tender and flavorful marinated teriyaki chicken skewers. Plus, a good sear on medium-high heat locks in all those delicious juices. For more information on proper meat handling and cooking temperatures, you can refer to resources like the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service.
Can I make teriyaki chicken skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the skewers just before grilling for the best results.
How do I avoid common mistakes with teriyaki chicken skewers?
A common pitfall is overcrowding the skewers, which prevents even cooking. Also, avoid grilling over excessively high heat, as the sugars in the teriyaki sauce can burn quickly. Lastly, ensure your chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature. If you’re looking for more general grilling tips, sites like AmazingRibs.com offer comprehensive guides.
Best Ways to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
These flavorful teriyaki chicken skewers are so versatile and delicious, they can be the star of any meal! For a classic Japanese-inspired dinner, I love serving them alongside fluffy steamed rice. The rice is perfect for soaking up any extra teriyaki sauce from the skewers, making it a complete flavor experience. You can also turn these into a vibrant meal by pairing them with teriyaki chicken skewers with vegetables like steamed broccoli or a crisp Asian-inspired slaw. They’re also fantastic as an appetizer for parties – truly, teriyaki chicken skewers on a stick are always a hit! For other appetizer ideas, check out these appetizers.
Nutrition Facts for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
When you’re enjoying these delicious teriyaki chicken skewers, it’s helpful to know what you’re getting. These estimates are based on the recipe as written, providing a good idea of the nutritional breakdown per serving. They are perfect for a flavorful main course that doesn’t overload you on calories.
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: N/A
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
One of the best things about these teriyaki chicken skewers is how well they store, making them perfect for leftovers or meal prep. After grilling, let the skewers cool completely before storing them. This prevents condensation and keeps them from getting soggy. I usually transfer them to an airtight container. For the best quality, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to make a big batch and have them on hand for longer, these skewers freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is simple. You can gently warm them up in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, or pop them in a preheated oven at around 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Microwaving is also an option, but I find a skillet or oven gives them a much better texture, closer to freshly grilled. These storage-related secondary keyword tips ensure you can enjoy these delicious skewers anytime! For more meal prep ideas, consider these dinner recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
What are teriyaki chicken skewers?
Teriyaki chicken skewers are pieces of chicken marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, then threaded onto skewers with vegetables or fruit and grilled, baked, or pan-fried. They’re a popular dish, especially in Japanese-American cuisine. The teriyaki sauce, a glaze made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, gives the chicken a beautiful glossy finish and a delicious flavor.
Why are teriyaki chicken skewers so popular?
There are many reasons why teriyaki chicken skewers are popular! They’re incredibly versatile, easy to customize with different vegetables, and the sweet and savory teriyaki flavor is a universal crowd-pleaser. Plus, serving food on a stick just makes it more fun! They’re perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to backyard barbecues and parties.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
You can certainly use chicken breast, but I highly recommend thighs for the juiciest results. Chicken thighs have more fat, which keeps them moist and tender on the grill. If you use breast meat, be extra careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out very quickly.
What vegetables pair well with teriyaki chicken skewers?
Almost any sturdy vegetable works wonderfully! Beyond the classic onion and bell pepper, I love adding chunks of pineapple for a sweet and tangy contrast, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even broccoli florets. Just make sure to cut them into pieces that are similar in size to your chicken so they cook evenly.
Variations of Teriyaki Chicken Skewers You Can Try
While I absolutely adore the classic grilled version, there are so many fun ways to switch up these teriyaki chicken skewers! If grilling isn’t an option, you can achieve fantastic results with oven baked teriyaki chicken skewers. Just arrange them on a baking sheet and bake at around 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and the sauce is caramelized. For an extra burst of flavor and color, consider adding chunks of pineapple or sweet potatoes to your skewers alongside the chicken and vegetables – they caramelize beautifully! If you enjoy oven-baked dishes, you might also like these baked lemon rosemary chicken recipes.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a swirl of sriracha to your marinade for a little heat.
- Vegetable Medley: Beyond the standard onion and bell pepper, try adding zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even chunks of sweet potato to your teriyaki chicken skewers with vegetables.
- Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Skewers: Swap chicken for salmon chunks for a delicious seafood twist. Adjust cooking time as salmon cooks faster.
- Sheet Pan Dinner: Skip the skewers altogether and make a sheet pan meal! Toss chicken pieces and vegetables with the marinade and roast everything together.
Amazing Teriyaki Chicken Skewers in 30 mins
- Total Time: 1 hour (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy and delicious teriyaki chicken skewers marinated in a savory sauce and grilled to perfection. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or summer barbecues. Customize with your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 small onion, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
- Cut chicken thighs into 1-1.5 inch pieces.
- Mix teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic in a bowl to make the marinade.
- Marinate chicken pieces for at least 30 minutes.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if using.
- Cut bell pepper and onion into similarly sized pieces.
- Thread marinated chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating ingredients.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill skewers for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove skewers from grill, garnish with sesame seeds, and serve.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken pieces.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and juiciness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Japanese-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (approx. 4-6 skewers per serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: N/A