These Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a delightful treat that everyone will love. They’re juicy, flavorful, and easy to make, making them an excellent choice for family dinners, barbecues, or casual gatherings. The homemade teriyaki sauce gives these skewers a unique touch, setting them apart from typical grilled chicken recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up an impressive meal in no time.
• Flavorful Marinade: The homemade teriyaki sauce adds a delicious balance of sweetness and umami that enhances the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these skewers with rice, noodles, or fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues, they fit any gathering style.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or switch up the proteins to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Teriyaki Chicken Skewers perfectly, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bamboo or metal skewers
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Grill or grill pan
• Small saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Bamboo or metal skewers: They hold the chicken pieces together while cooking and make flipping easy.
• Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl is essential for mixing the marinade thoroughly.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides the best cooking method for achieving a nice char on the chicken.
• Small saucepan: Necessary for cooking the reserved marinade into a thick sauce.

Ingredients

These Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are tender, juicy, and bursting with sweet and savory flavors. Marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, they’re perfect for grilling or cooking indoors. Serve them with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a delicious meal.

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 12–15 bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)

For the Teriyaki Marinade and Sauce

• ½ cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• ⅓ cup honey (or brown sugar)
• ¼ cup rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

For Garnish (Optional)

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions

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How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Reserve ¼ cup of the marinade for basting or as a dipping sauce.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or bowl. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

Step 3: Cook the Sauce

To make the sauce, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened. Set aside for basting or serving.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 8–10 minutes while turning occasionally and basting with teriyaki sauce until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Step 6: Bake Them (Optional)

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake for 15–20 minutes. Turn and baste halfway through cooking. Broil for an additional 2–3 minutes for charred finish.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve alongside rice, noodles, or vegetables with remaining teriyaki sauce for dipping.

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. These delicious skewers can complement a range of side dishes and garnishes, making your meal both festive and flavorful.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice – A classic option that perfectly absorbs the teriyaki sauce.
• Fried Rice – Adds a savory twist with vegetables and scrambled eggs for extra flavor.

With Noodles

• Lo Mein – Soft noodles tossed in a light sauce that pairs well with the sweetness of the chicken.
• Soba Noodles – These buckwheat noodles have a nutty flavor that complements the teriyaki sauce nicely.

In Salads

• Asian Slaw – A crunchy mix of cabbage and carrots dressed in a sesame dressing adds freshness.
• Mixed Greens Salad – Light greens topped with grilled skewers create a balanced meal.

As Appetizers

• Serve on Bite-Sized Toasts – Cut small pieces of toasted baguette for easy finger food.
• With Dipping Sauce – Pair with extra teriyaki sauce or spicy mayo for an exciting appetizer.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

To make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers truly irresistible, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is flavorful and perfectly cooked.

• Marinate Longer – Allow the chicken to marinate for up to 4 hours for maximum flavor absorption.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the taste of your marinade significantly.
• Soak Bamboo Skewers – Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Preheat Grill Properly – Ensure your grill is hot before adding skewers for better searing and flavor.
• Check Internal Temperature – Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
• Baste While Cooking – Basting with reserved marinade adds moisture and enhances flavor during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Pairing side dishes with your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers can elevate the meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors of the skewers beautifully.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrition, steamed until tender-crisp.
2. Edamame Beans – Lightly salted edamame are a fun finger food that adds protein to your meal.
3. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad made from sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame seeds.
4. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup brings comfort and depth to your dinner table.
5. Pickled Vegetables – Quick-pickled carrots or radishes provide a tangy contrast to sweet teriyaki chicken.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn grilled to perfection pairs well with savory flavors.
7. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed option mixed with veggies and a light dressing keeps it healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can affect the dish’s final flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for marinating can lead to bland skewers. Ideally, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but 4 hours will enhance the flavors even more.
• Using High-Sodium Soy Sauce: Using regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium can make your skewers overly salty. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to achieve a balanced taste.
• Overcrowding the Skewers: Stuffing too many pieces of chicken onto each skewer can prevent even cooking. Leave a little space between each piece for better heat circulation.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Skipping this step may result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat before adding the skewers for optimal results.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Failing to check if the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) can lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Teriyaki Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

• Place cooled skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Arrange skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot, usually around 1-2 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and reheat the skewers for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Teriyaki Chicken Skewers that might help you perfect your dish.

Can I use other proteins for Teriyaki Skewers?

You can definitely use other proteins like shrimp, beef, or tofu. The marinade works well with various ingredients, just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How long should I marinate Teriyaki Chicken?

For best results, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 4 hours to avoid overly softening the meat.

What sides pair well with Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?

These skewers go great with rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences!

Can I make Teriyaki sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good stir before using it again.

Final Thoughts

These Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Whether you serve them at a barbecue or enjoy them as a cozy weeknight meal, they are sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize them with different vegetables or dipping sauces for added variety! Give this recipe a try and enjoy an explosion of flavors!