Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

From backyard barbecues to simple weeknight dinners, there’s something undeniably delightful about food cooked on skewers. And when you combine that fun, easy-to-eat format with the irresistible sweet and savory glaze of teriyaki, you’ve got a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. In my household, Teriyaki Chicken Skewers have become a staple. The first time I made them, the aroma alone had everyone gathered in the kitchen, practically drooling! The juicy, tender chicken, perfectly caramelized with that classic teriyaki shine, disappeared in minutes. Even my notoriously picky eaters devoured them, asking for seconds (and thirds!). This recipe isn’t just about throwing chicken on a stick; it’s about creating an experience – a burst of Asian-inspired flavors that’s incredibly simple to make yet tastes like you’ve spent hours perfecting it. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a kitchen novice, these Teriyaki Chicken Skewers will become your go-to for effortless, delicious meals that everyone will love. Get ready to fire up the grill (or oven!) and experience the magic for yourself!

Ingredients: Your Teriyaki Chicken Skewer Shopping List

To make these mouthwatering Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, you’ll need a handful of fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need, and why each component is essential:

• Chicken Thighs (Boneless, Skinless, about 2 lbs): The star of the show! Chicken thighs are preferred over breasts for skewers because they are more forgiving and remain juicy and tender even when grilled or cooked at higher temperatures. Their slightly higher fat content contributes to a richer flavor and prevents them from drying out, which is crucial for perfect skewers. Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking and easy skewering.
• Soy Sauce (Low Sodium, 1 cup): The foundation of our teriyaki marinade. Low sodium soy sauce provides the umami-rich, salty base without being overpowering. It also helps tenderize the chicken and adds depth of flavor.
• Mirin (1/2 cup): A sweet rice wine essential in Japanese cooking. Mirin adds a subtle sweetness and complexity to the teriyaki marinade. It also contributes to the glaze’s glossy finish and helps balance the saltiness of the soy sauce. If you can’t find mirin, you can substitute with dry sherry or rice wine vinegar with a teaspoon of sugar.
• Sake (or Rice Wine, 1/4 cup): Sake (or rice wine) adds another layer of flavor and aroma to the marinade. It helps tenderize the chicken and enhances the overall complexity of the teriyaki sauce. If you don’t have sake, you can omit it or substitute with a bit more mirin or even dry white wine.
• Brown Sugar (Packed, 1/2 cup): Brown sugar brings a rich, molasses-like sweetness to the teriyaki marinade. It also contributes to the beautiful caramelization of the chicken as it cooks, giving it that signature teriyaki glaze and slightly sticky texture.
• Ginger (Fresh, about 1-inch piece, grated): Fresh ginger adds a warm, spicy, and slightly zesty note to the teriyaki marinade. It brightens the flavors and provides a pleasant aromatic complexity. Fresh ginger is preferred for its vibrant taste, but in a pinch, you can use ground ginger (about 1 teaspoon), though the flavor will be less intense.
• Garlic (3-4 cloves, minced): Garlic is a fundamental flavor builder in many cuisines, and teriyaki is no exception. Minced garlic adds a pungent, savory depth to the marinade, complementing the sweetness and saltiness beautifully. Fresh garlic is always best for its robust flavor.
• Sesame Oil (1 tablespoon): Toasted sesame oil adds a distinctive nutty aroma and flavor that is characteristic of Asian cuisine. Just a tablespoon enhances the richness of the teriyaki marinade and adds a subtle toasted note to the chicken. Use toasted sesame oil for the best flavor; regular sesame oil is much milder.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent in the teriyaki marinade. When heated, it helps create that classic, slightly thickened teriyaki glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken skewers.
• Water (1/4 cup): Water helps to balance the marinade and ensure it’s not too thick before cooking. It also aids in dissolving the sugar and cornstarch.
• Green Onions (for garnish, optional): Fresh green onions, thinly sliced, add a pop of color and a mild oniony bite as a garnish. They provide a fresh, vibrant finish to the cooked skewers.
• Sesame Seeds (for garnish, optional): Sesame seeds, toasted or untoasted, add a nutty flavor and a visual appeal to the finished skewers. They complement the sesame oil in the marinade and provide a textural contrast.
• Wooden or Metal Skewers: You’ll need skewers to thread the chicken onto. Wooden skewers should be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. Metal skewers are reusable and don’t require soaking.

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Follow these simple steps to create perfectly marinated and cooked Teriyaki Chicken Skewers that are bursting with flavor:

1. Prepare the Teriyaki Marinade: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sake (or rice wine), brown sugar, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water. Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to prevent lumps.
2. Simmer the Marinade: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the marinade to a simmer, stirring constantly. Once it starts to bubble and thicken slightly, reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the marinade has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon. This cooking process helps to meld the flavors together and activate the cornstarch for that perfect glaze consistency. Remove from heat and let the marinade cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Chicken: While the marinade is cooling, cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes. Uniformly sized pieces ensure even cooking. Place the chicken cubes in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish.
4. Marinate the Chicken: Pour about ¾ of the cooled teriyaki marinade over the chicken in the bag or dish. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting later. Massage the marinade into the chicken to ensure every piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 2-4 hours. Longer marinating times will result in more flavorful and tender chicken. For the best flavor, you can even marinate overnight (but not longer than 24 hours, as the soy sauce can start to break down the chicken too much).
5. Soak Wooden Skewers (if using): If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before assembling the skewers. This prevents them from burning on the grill or in the oven. If using metal skewers, this step is not necessary.
6. Assemble the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F or 175-200°C). If you are baking or broiling, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or set your broiler to high. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Aim for about 4-5 pieces of chicken per skewer, depending on the length of your skewers and the size of the chicken cubes.
7. Grill the Skewers: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, basting frequently with the reserved teriyaki marinade. Turn the skewers every few minutes to ensure even cooking and beautiful grill marks. Continue grilling until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the teriyaki glaze is nicely caramelized and slightly sticky. The total grilling time will depend on the heat of your grill and the size of the chicken pieces, but it usually takes around 15-20 minutes in total.
8. Bake or Broil the Skewers (Alternative Cooking Methods):
   • Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through and basting with the reserved marinade every 5-7 minutes. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
   • Broiling: Preheat your broiler to high. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil and position them about 4-6 inches from the broiler element. Broil for 3-4 minutes per side, basting frequently with the reserved marinade and watching carefully to prevent burning. Broiling cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on the skewers and ensure they are cooked through and the glaze is nicely caramelized.
9. Garnish and Serve: Once the Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are cooked, remove them from the grill, oven, or broiler. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Let them rest for a minute or two before serving. Serve immediately while they are hot and juicy.

Nutrition Facts: Delicious and Moderately Healthy

Enjoying Teriyaki Chicken Skewers is not only a treat for your taste buds but can also be part of a balanced diet. Here’s a general overview of the nutritional information per serving. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and cooking methods.

• Serving Size: Approximately 2 skewers (about 4-5 oz of cooked chicken)
• Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving. This is a moderate calorie count, making it suitable for a main course, especially when paired with lighter sides. The calorie count primarily comes from the chicken, marinade ingredients like brown sugar and sesame oil, and potential added fats during cooking.
• Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams of protein per serving. Chicken thighs are a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle building, repair, and overall satiety. This high protein content helps make this dish satisfying and keeps you feeling fuller for longer.
• Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams of fat per serving. This includes both healthy unsaturated fats from sesame oil and naturally occurring fats in chicken thighs. While chicken thighs are not as lean as breasts, the fat content contributes to their juiciness and flavor.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25 grams of carbohydrates per serving. These carbs primarily come from the brown sugar and mirin in the teriyaki marinade. While not excessively high, individuals monitoring carbohydrate intake should be mindful of this amount.
• Sodium: Approximately 600-800 mg of sodium per serving. This amount is primarily from the soy sauce. Using low-sodium soy sauce significantly reduces the sodium content. If you are watching your sodium intake, be sure to use low-sodium soy sauce and consider reducing the amount slightly.

It’s important to remember that these are estimations. For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the exact ingredients and quantities you use in your recipe.

Preparation Time: Quick and Convenient

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a fantastic option when you want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:

• Prep Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes. This includes the time to prepare the teriyaki marinade (mixing ingredients and simmering), cutting the chicken into cubes, and soaking wooden skewers (if using). The marinade comes together quickly, and cutting the chicken is straightforward.
• Marinating Time: Minimum 30 minutes, ideally 2-4 hours, or up to overnight. While the active prep time is short, the marinating time is crucial for flavor development. Even a 30-minute marinade will impart noticeable teriyaki flavor, but longer marinating enhances both flavor and tenderness.
• Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes (grilling), 20-25 minutes (baking), or 6-8 minutes (broiling). The cooking time is relatively quick, especially grilling and broiling, making this a great option for a fast weeknight dinner.

Total Time (excluding marinating): Around 35-45 minutes from start to finish. This recipe is remarkably efficient for a dish packed with such vibrant flavors. The majority of the time is hands-off marinating and cooking, allowing you to focus on other tasks or simply relax while dinner practically cooks itself!

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Perfect Pairings and Ideas

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Classic Rice Bowls:
  • Steamed White Rice: A simple and perfect base to soak up the delicious teriyaki glaze.
  • Brown Rice: For a healthier, nutty-flavored option.
  • Sushi Rice: Adds a slightly sticky texture and authentic Japanese feel.
  • Quinoa: A protein-rich and gluten-free alternative.
  • Serve with: A scoop of rice in a bowl, topped with Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
• Fresh and Vibrant Salads:
  • Asian Slaw: A crunchy and refreshing slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a sesame-ginger dressing.
  • Cucumber Salad: A light and cool cucumber salad with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar.
  • Seaweed Salad (Wakame): A classic Japanese side dish that complements the teriyaki flavors beautifully.
  • Edamame Salad: Edamame beans with a light vinaigrette and perhaps some corn and bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
• Grilled or Roasted Vegetables:
  • Grilled Asparagus: Simple grilled asparagus spears seasoned with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon.
  • Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli florets with a touch of garlic and olive oil.
  • Grilled Bell Peppers and Onions: Colorful bell peppers and onions grilled alongside the chicken skewers.
  • Zucchini or Summer Squash: Grilled or roasted zucchini or summer squash for a light and healthy side.
• Noodle Dishes:
  • Stir-Fried Noodles (Yakisoba or Udon): Add the teriyaki chicken skewers to stir-fried noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
  • Cold Soba Noodles: Serve chilled soba noodles with a dipping sauce and top with slices of teriyaki chicken from the skewers.
• Appetizers or Party Food:
  • Mini Skewers: Cut the chicken into smaller pieces and use shorter skewers for bite-sized appetizers at parties.
  • Serve with Dipping Sauces: Offer extra teriyaki sauce or a spicy mayo for dipping.
  • Alongside Spring Rolls or Gyoza: Create an Asian-inspired appetizer platter with teriyaki chicken skewers and other favorites.
• In Wraps or Lettuce Cups:
  • Lettuce Wraps: Serve the chicken from the skewers in crisp lettuce cups with shredded carrots, cucumbers, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo.
  • Tortilla Wraps: Use warm tortillas to create teriyaki chicken wraps with rice, slaw, and your favorite toppings.

Additional Tips for Teriyaki Chicken Skewer Perfection

Elevate your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers from good to absolutely amazing with these helpful tips:

1. Don’t Over-Marinate: While marinating is crucial, don’t marinate the chicken for longer than 24 hours, especially with soy sauce-based marinades. The acid in the marinade can start to break down the chicken protein, leading to a mushy texture. 2-4 hours is usually ideal for optimal flavor and tenderness.
2. Patience with the Glaze: When grilling, baking, or broiling, baste the skewers frequently with the reserved marinade, especially in the last few minutes of cooking. This builds up that beautiful, glossy teriyaki glaze. Be patient and allow the glaze to caramelize slightly without burning.
3. Control the Heat: Grill or cook the skewers over medium heat. High heat can cause the outside to burn before the chicken is cooked through. Medium heat allows the chicken to cook evenly and the teriyaki glaze to caramelize nicely without scorching.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly and safely is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of a chicken cube on a skewer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the Teriyaki Chicken Skewers rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in more tender and flavorful skewers.
6. Customize the Marinade: Feel free to adjust the marinade to your taste. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade. For a sweeter teriyaki, increase the brown sugar slightly. You can also add other aromatics like grated orange zest or a star anise for a more complex flavor profile.
7. Vegetable Skewers: Make it a complete meal by adding vegetables to your skewers. Bell peppers, onions, pineapple chunks, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini all grill beautifully and complement the teriyaki chicken. Marinate the vegetables lightly in some of the teriyaki marinade or brush them with olive oil and seasonings.
8. Make Ahead for Convenience: You can prepare the teriyaki marinade and cut the chicken ahead of time. Store the marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and the marinated chicken separately for up to 24 hours. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze. You can also assemble the skewers ahead of time and keep them refrigerated until ready to cook (cook within a few hours for food safety).

FAQ: Your Teriyaki Chicken Skewer Questions Answered

Got questions about making the best Teriyaki Chicken Skewers? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
   • Yes, you can, but chicken thighs are highly recommended for skewers. Chicken breasts are leaner and tend to dry out more easily when grilled or cooked at higher temperatures. If using chicken breasts, be extra careful not to overcook them and consider marinating for a slightly shorter time. You might also want to cut them into slightly thicker cubes to help retain moisture.
2. Can I make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers in the oven if I don’t have a grill?
   • Absolutely! Baking and broiling are excellent oven methods for cooking Teriyaki Chicken Skewers. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or broiling for 3-4 minutes per side will yield delicious results. Remember to baste frequently with the reserved marinade regardless of the cooking method.
3. How long should I marinate the chicken?
   • The ideal marinating time is between 2 to 4 hours. A minimum of 30 minutes will impart noticeable flavor, but longer marinating up to 4 hours enhances both flavor and tenderness. You can marinate overnight for maximum flavor, but avoid marinating for longer than 24 hours as the soy sauce can start to break down the chicken texture.
4. Can I freeze Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
   • Yes, you can freeze cooked Teriyaki Chicken Skewers. Let them cool completely after cooking. Remove the chicken from the skewers (optional, but easier to store) and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven, microwave, or on the grill until heated through. The texture may be slightly less perfect after freezing and reheating, but the flavor will still be delicious.
5. Can I make the teriyaki marinade ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the teriyaki marinade up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights.
6. Are Teriyaki Chicken Skewers gluten-free?
   • No, traditional soy sauce contains wheat and is not gluten-free. However, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using tamari sauce, which is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Always check the label to ensure your tamari is certified gluten-free. All other ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
7. How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning on the grill?
   • Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling is crucial to prevent them from burning. This saturates the wood with moisture, which helps it withstand the heat of the grill for longer.
8. Can I make a spicier teriyaki marinade?
   • Yes, absolutely! To add some heat, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes, a teaspoon of sriracha, or a finely chopped chili pepper (like a jalapeño or serrano) to the marinade. Adjust the amount of spice to your preference. You can also add a dash of black pepper for a milder warmth.

Enjoy making and savoring these flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Skewers! They are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to fun outdoor gatherings. Happy cooking!

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