Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your family, Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are the answer. These flavorful skewers are marinated in a delectable homemade teriyaki sauce, making them juicy and tender. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and impressive. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or broiling in your kitchen, these skewers are incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion. Serve them with steamed rice or fresh vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about making delicious Teriyaki Chicken Skewers from scratch.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
• Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
• How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
• Tips and Tricks
• How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
• Make Ahead and Storage
• Suggestions for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
• Avoid Over-Marinating
• Choosing the Wrong Chicken Parts
• Skipping Pre-Soaking Wooden Skewers
• Ignoring Temperature Control
• FAQs
• What ingredients are needed for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
• How long should I cook Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
• Can I make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers ahead of time?
• What sides pair well with Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
• Conclusion for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
• Fresh Ginger: Use grated ginger to add a zingy freshness to the marinade
• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness
• Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness to balance out the savory elements of the dish

For the Sauce:

• Rice Vinegar: A splash of rice vinegar enhances the flavor profile of the marinade

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for enhanced flavor.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 375°F or 190°C). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Make sure to leave some space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F or 74°C).

Step 6: Serve Hot

Transfer to plates and drizzle with reserved marinade or additional teriyaki sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Get inspired with these delicious options!

Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade Recipe

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight

Hungry for more? See more recipes!

Flavorful Greek Chicken Marinade Recipe

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

This Teriyaki Chicken Skewers is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Find your next favorite recipe here!

Easy Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken skewers and marinade in advance. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. If you want to save time, assemble the skewers ahead of time, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill.
• Storing: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible, and they can last up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on a grill over low heat for about five minutes on each side to maintain their flavor and texture.

Satisfy Your Taste Buds with This Recipe

Restaurant-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Suggestions for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Avoid Over-Marinating

One common mistake when preparing teriyaki chicken skewers is over-marinating the chicken. While marinating is essential for flavor, leaving the chicken in the marinade for too long can lead to an undesirable texture. The acids in the marinade can break down the proteins excessively, resulting in mushy meat. Aim for a marinating time of at least 30 minutes but no more than 2 hours. This timing allows the chicken to absorb the flavors without compromising its structure. If you have leftover marinade, consider using it as a basting sauce while grilling instead of soaking the chicken for too long.

Choosing the Wrong Chicken Parts

Selecting the right cut of chicken is crucial for delicious teriyaki chicken skewers. Many people default to using chicken breasts, which can dry out during cooking. Instead, opt for thighs or a combination of both. Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving when grilled, ensuring that your skewers remain moist and flavorful. If you prefer white meat, consider brining the chicken breasts before marinating them to help retain moisture. Always cut your chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking, regardless of your cut choice.

Skipping Pre-Soaking Wooden Skewers

When using wooden skewers for your teriyaki chicken skewers, do not skip the pre-soaking step. Dry skewers can catch fire on the grill and may ruin your entire dish. To prevent this, soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before use. This simple step keeps them moist during cooking and helps them withstand higher temperatures without burning. You can also add flavor by soaking them in a mixture of water and teriyaki sauce or other complementary liquids.

Ignoring Temperature Control

Temperature control is vital when grilling teriyaki chicken skewers. Many people make the mistake of cooking on high heat right from the start, which can lead to burnt outsides and raw insides. Instead, preheat your grill and keep it at medium heat to allow even cooking throughout each skewer. Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures that your teriyaki chicken skewers are safe to eat while remaining juicy and tender.

FAQs

What ingredients are needed for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?

To make delicious teriyaki chicken skewers, you’ll need simple yet flavorful ingredients. The key components are boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, soy sauce, sake (or rice vinegar), mirin (or honey), garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and green onions for garnish. You can also include vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini on the skewers for added color and nutrition. Remember to adjust the marinade’s sweetness by adding more honey or sugar if desired. Marinate your chosen protein in this savory mixture for optimal flavor absorption before grilling.

How long should I cook Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?

Cooking time for teriyaki chicken skewers typically ranges from 10 to 15 minutes on a preheated grill set at medium heat. It’s important to turn the skewers every few minutes to ensure even cooking and avoid burning one side. For best results, use a meat thermometer to check that each piece of chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees that your teriyaki chicken skewers are cooked through while remaining juicy and tender inside.

Can I make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers ahead of time?

Yes! Preparing teriyaki chicken skewers ahead of time is a convenient option for meal planning or entertaining guests. You can marinate the chicken earlier in the day or even up to 24 hours in advance; just be mindful not to over-marinate as mentioned earlier. After assembling your skewers with any additional vegetables you desire, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill them. This method saves time during busy days while enhancing flavor as it allows more time for seasoning absorption.

What sides pair well with Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?

Teriyaki chicken skewers pair beautifully with various sides that complement their sweet and savory flavors. Popular choices include steamed jasmine rice or sushi rice drizzled with extra teriyaki sauce for added taste. Another great option is grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus seasoned lightly with salt and pepper; their charred flavor enhances the dish beautifully. Additionally, consider serving a fresh cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar or sesame oil for a refreshing contrast alongside your deliciously glazed skewers.

Craving Something New? Try This

Quick Easy Chicken Teriyaki Recipe

Conclusion for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

In summary, creating perfect teriyaki chicken skewers involves careful attention to detail at every stage—from selecting quality ingredients like juicy cuts of meat and fresh vegetables to mastering marination techniques and cooking methods. Avoid common pitfalls such as over-marinating or neglecting wooden skewer preparation by soaking them beforehand. Additionally, maintaining proper temperature control during grilling ensures mouthwatering results every time you prepare this dish. Whether served as a main course or part of a vibrant platter alongside complementary sides, these flavorful skews will surely impress friends and family alike!