Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

The Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that will elevate any meal. Perfect for grilling season or as a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The tender chicken, marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The homemade teriyaki sauce infuses the chicken with rich flavors that are both sweet and savory.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this dish ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these skewers on their own, over rice, or as part of a larger meal spread.
• Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for summer barbecues or indoor grilling, they add a fun twist to your cooking routine.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and made from wholesome components, they are a nutritious choice.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for threading the marinated chicken, allowing even cooking on the grill.
• Medium saucepan: Used to prepare the teriyaki sauce, ensuring it thickens properly.
• Grill: Provides that delicious charred flavor while evenly cooking the chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 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

For Serving

• 8 skewers
• sesame seeds
• chopped green onion

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

First, make the sauce: Combine 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 the sauce lightly thickens. The sauce will be dark brown. Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool completely (you can place it in the fridge to speed up this process).

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. Set aside remaining sauce for later use.

Step 3: Prepare for Grilling

When the chicken has finished marinating, place your chicken pieces onto skewers. Heat your grill to medium heat.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

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

Step 5: Serve

Remove skewers from grill and serve immediately with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Chicken Skewers!

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Serving Teriyaki Chicken Skewers is easy and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a simple presentation or a more elaborate meal, there are plenty of options to make your dish shine.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the skewers over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a filling meal.
• Drizzle extra teriyaki sauce on top for added flavor.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Pair with grilled or steamed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for a colorful plate.
• This adds crunch and nutrition, balancing the savory chicken.

As an Appetizer

• Cut the skewers into smaller pieces and serve with toothpicks as a delightful appetizer.
• Complement with dipping sauces like extra teriyaki or sweet chili sauce.

On a Salad

• Place sliced chicken skewers on top of a fresh green salad.
• Use sesame dressing or vinaigrette to enhance the flavors and add freshness.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

To achieve tender and flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, follow these handy tips for best results.

• Choose the right cut of chicken: Chicken thighs are juicier than breasts, providing more flavor and tenderness.
• Marinate longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
• Skewer properly: Alternate chicken pieces with vegetables on the skewers for an appealing presentation and balanced cooking.
• Preheat your grill: Ensuring your grill is hot helps achieve perfect sear marks and prevents sticking.
• Baste while grilling: Brush the skewers with reserved teriyaki sauce during grilling to lock in moisture and flavor.
• Check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Complementing your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with delicious sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A classic side that offers crunch and vibrant color; simply steam until tender.
2. Coconut Rice: Cook rice with coconut milk for a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with teriyaki flavors.
3. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame provides protein and is fun to eat; steam them until bright green.
4. Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and tanginess to your meal.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grill corn until charred; serve it brushed with butter or olive oil for a tasty treat.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the skewers perfectly; add tofu and seaweed for extra heartiness.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy bring sweetness that balances out savory dishes beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making teriyaki chicken skewers can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to keep in mind.

• Bold Marinade Timing: Marinating the chicken for too short a time can lead to less flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for a richer taste.
• Bold Ignoring Skewering Technique: Not properly securing the chicken on the skewers can result in pieces falling apart during grilling. Make sure to leave some space between each piece for even cooking.
• Bold Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long will make it dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Bold Skipping the Basting Step: Failing to baste with sauce while grilling can lead to bland skewers. Brush on the remaining teriyaki sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for maximum flavor.
• Bold Forgetting to Preheat: Not preheating your grill can affect cooking time and texture. Ensure your grill is hot before placing the skewers on it.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow skewers to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth; cover and heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making teriyaki chicken skewers.

What is the best chicken cut for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?

Chicken thighs are ideal due to their juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts are also great if you prefer leaner meat.

Can I use other proteins for skewers?

Yes! You can substitute beef, lamb, or turkey as alternatives for delicious results.

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

The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. A meat thermometer is helpful for accuracy.

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers up to a day in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Teriyaki chicken skewers are not only flavorful but also versatile. They can be customized with different vegetables or marinades based on your preferences. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Give this recipe a try and impress your family with delicious grilled treats!