Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Cozy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Recipe

Nothing says summer like the delightful sizzle of chicken grilling on the barbecue, and these Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are the perfect dish to enjoy with family and friends. The rich, sweet flavors of the teriyaki sauce envelop the tender chicken, creating a taste experience that brings you back to warm, sunny evenings spent outdoors. I remember the first time I made these skewers; the aroma wafting through the kitchen reminded me of family gatherings, laughter, and the joy of sharing delicious food. Whether it’s an easy weeknight dinner or a weekend celebration, these skewers are sure to leave everyone craving more. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Perfect for a busy weeknight, these skewers come together in about 45 minutes, making your dinner prep a breeze.
• Flavorful & Tender: The teriyaki sauce transforms simple chicken into a mouthwatering dish that is deliciously juicy and tender.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love these flavorful skewers, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies to the skewers for a fun twist; the possibilities are endless!
• Great for Grilling: Celebrate the season with this perfect backyard recipe, allowing everyone to enjoy the grilling experience outside.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Teriyaki 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 (for garnish)
• Chopped green onion (for garnish)

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

1. First, make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water. In a medium saucepan, add the remaining ingredients along with the cornstarch/water mixture. Stirring frequently, bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook until it slightly thickens, achieving a dark brown hue. Once done, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool completely (you can speed this up by placing it in the fridge).

2. Marinate the chicken: Once the sauce is cooled, place the cubed chicken in a large ziplock bag. Pour half of the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and gently shake to coat. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to penetrate. Set aside the remaining sauce for later.

3. Prepare the grill: When the marination time is up, thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers. Preheat your grill to medium heat, ensuring it’s nice and hot for that perfect sear.

4. Grill the skewers: Lightly oil the grill grates and place the skewers on the grill. Turn them every 3-4 minutes, cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This should take approximately 20-30 minutes. During the last few turns, baste the chicken with the remaining teriyaki sauce for that extra burst of flavor.

5. Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and serve them warm, garnished with chopped green onion and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like. Enjoy the delightful flavors with your loved ones!

Fun Ways to Customize It

• Add Veggies: Try adding bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to the skewers for added color and flavor. The veggies will soak up the teriyaki sauce and become perfectly tender.
• Pineapple Twist: For a tropical touch, include chunks of fresh or grilled pineapple between the chicken pieces. The sweet tanginess complements the savory chicken beautifully.
• Spicy Kick: If you crave a little heat, add a splash of Sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a zesty twist.
• Alternative Proteins: These skewers work wonderfully with shrimp or tofu, giving you versatile options for a delightful meal.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the teriyaki sauce a day in advance and let it rest in the fridge. This allows the flavors to deepen, making it even tastier!
• Storage: Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply heat them up on the grill or in a pan for a quick meal.
• Slicing Chicken: For even cooking, cut the chicken into uniform-sized pieces, approximately 1 inch. This ensures each piece cooks at the same rate.
• Vegetable Pairing: If you’re adding veggies, consider marinating them in the leftover teriyaki sauce for 15 minutes before grilling for added flavor.

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

• Serving Size: 2 skewers
• Calories: 250
• Carbs: 14g
• Sugar: 9g
• Fat: 8g
• Protein: 32g
• Sodium: 600mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken the night before. This makes for a quick grilling experience the next day.

Can I use different ingredients?
Certainly! Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or diced tofu, and mix in your favorite vegetables.

How do I store leftovers?
Place leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How long does it last?
While best consumed fresh, leftover skewers can last in the refrigerator for about 3 days. Reheat them before serving.

A Cozy Closing Note

These Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are not just a recipe; they’re a celebration of flavors and time spent together. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or making a simple dinner at home, this dish brings warmth to the table. Save this Teriyaki Chicken Skewers recipe to your Dinner Inspiration board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat!