Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are the perfect blend of juicy chicken, sweet and savory flavors, and that irresistible charred goodness, making them a crowd-pleaser at any summer barbecue. Imagine tender pieces of chicken glazed with a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce that’s caramelized to perfection, creating a symphony of flavor that awakens your taste buds and begs for a second (or third) helping.
Jump to:
- <strong>Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch to Teriyaki Chicken Skewers</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating Teriyaki Chicken Skewers</strong>
- FAQs About Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
- What is Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
- How do I marinate for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
- Can I customize my Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
- How should I serve Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
- Conclusion for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Now, as you get ready to whip up these Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, think about the fun times ahead. Picture yourself outdoors, the grill sizzling, and family or friends gathered around eagerly awaiting the first bite of this delightful dish. Trust me, this recipe will turn you into the star of the backyard cookout, unlocking memories of laughter, good times, and, of course, delicious food.
Why You'll Love This Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
- This incredible Teriyaki Chicken Skewers transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Teriyaki Chicken Skewers:
2 lbs. chicken thighs or breasts – Choose thighs for moister meat, but breasts work if that’s what you have. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
2 tablespoons cornstarch – This helps create a thick and luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.
1 cup water – Essential for mixing with cornstarch to create a silky base for your sauce.
⅓ cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness to the sauce, balancing out the savory soy sauce.
⅓ cup soy sauce – This is the heart of the teriyaki flavor; for a gluten-free version, use tamari.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Freshly minced garlic brings pungent flavors to the mix.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar – This adds a lovely tang that enhances the overall flavor profile.
½ tablespoon fresh ginger, minced – Ginger imparts warmth and spiciness that complements the chicken.
1 tablespoon honey – For an extra layer of sweetness and shine in the sauce.
½ teaspoon sesame oil – Adds a nutty richness that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
8 skewers – Wooden or metal, just make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
Optional Topping: sesame seeds – For extra crunch and visual appeal.
Optional Topping: chopped green onion – Freshness and a pop of color to finish your dish.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Teriyaki Chicken Skewers:
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and water until smooth. In a medium saucepan, add the remaining sauce ingredients: brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, minced ginger, honey, and sesame oil. Stir frequently while bringing the mixture to a simmer. Keep cooking until the sauce thickens slightly. Let the teriyaki sauce cool completely before using it.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Take your cubed chicken and place it in a large ziplock bag. Pour half of the cooled teriyaki sauce over the chicken, seal the bag, and give it a gentle shake to coat evenly. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Remember to set aside the remaining sauce for basting later.
Step 3: Skewer the Chicken
Once your chicken has marinated and taken on all those delicious flavors, it’s time to skewer! Thread the chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place your chicken skewers on the grill and cook, turning them every 3-4 minutes. Grill until the chicken is cooked through (an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit), which usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
Step 5: Baste and Serve
During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the skewers with the reserved teriyaki sauce for that extra glossy finish. Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Now that you’ve got the recipe down pat, imagine setting these delicious Teriyaki Chicken Skewers on the table and watching your friends and family dig in. The joy and satisfaction they’ll feel as they savor each bite will make all your cooking efforts worthwhile. Enjoy your culinary triumph, and get ready to relive the taste of summer with every grilled bite!
You Must Know About Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
- This showstopping Teriyaki Chicken Skewers delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Cooking Process
Start by preparing the marinade while the chicken is marinating. This allows the flavors to develop. Then, focus on grilling the skewers to achieve a juicy and tender texture. Finish by preparing any sides to serve alongside your delicious chicken skewers.
Add Your Touch to Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Feel free to personalize your skewers by swapping chicken for tofu or shrimp. You can also add seasonal veggies, like bell peppers or onions, for extra flavor and crunch. Experiment with spicy sriracha or sweet pineapple for a fun twist.
Storing & Reheating Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on a stovetop skillet for best results, ensuring they’re warmed through without drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
- This professional-quality Teriyaki Chicken Skewers relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
The first time I made Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, my friends couldn’t stop raving about them. They even suggested I start a side gig as a backyard chef!
FAQs About Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
What is Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a delightful dish featuring marinated chicken, usually thighs or breasts, grilled to perfection. The chicken is cut into bite-sized cubes and soaked in a homemade teriyaki sauce, which provides a sweet and savory glaze. This dish is not just about flavor; it also offers an appealing visual presentation when served on skewers, making it great for gatherings or family dinners.
How do I marinate for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
To marinate chicken for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, mix cornstarch, water, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, ginger, honey, and sesame oil in a bowl. After mixing, pour half of the marinade into a large ziplock bag with cubed chicken. Seal and gently shake until well coated, allowing the chicken to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving tender and flavorful skewers.
Can I customize my Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
Absolutely! One of the best aspects of Teriyaki Chicken Skewers is their versatility. You can swap the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skewers for a colorful twist. You can also experiment with flavored marinades by adding a bit of sriracha for heat or pineapple juice for sweetness.
How should I serve Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
When serving Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, presentation is key! Lay them on a beautiful platter and drizzle with the reserved teriyaki sauce for extra flavor. Enhance the dish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top. These skewers pair wonderfully with steamed rice, fresh salad, or grilled veggies, making them an excellent choice for both fancy dinners and casual barbecues.
Conclusion for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
In summary, Teriyaki Chicken Skewers offer a simple yet delicious option for any dinner setting. The marinated chicken shines with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, and the grilling adds a delightful char. You can personalize the skewers or keep them classic for a satisfying meal. Whether for a family feast or a special occasion, this dish will leave everyone craving more. Enjoy your cooking adventure with these scrumptious Teriyaki Chicken Skewers!
Easy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Recipe with Delicious Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- 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 sauce lightly thickens. Let cool completely.
- 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. Let chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Place remaining sauce aside for later.
- When the chicken is done marinating, place chicken on skewers and heat the grill to medium heat.
- Once the grill is hot, place skewers on lightly oiled grill. Turn the skewers every 3-4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165 degrees), about 20-30 minutes. Baste with remaining teriyaki sauce during the last few turns.
- Remove skewers from grill and serve with chopped green onion and a sprinkle of sesame seeds (optional).
