These Easy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a total crowd-pleaser! Juicy chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy homemade sauce makes each bite super tasty. Perfect for grilling or baking!
They’re so simple to make, even I can do it! Just mix the marinade, soak the chicken, and grill until golden. Who doesn’t love the smell of chicken sizzling on the grill? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with and stay juicy when grilled. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even use tofu for a vegetarian option!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds sweetness and juiciness. If fresh isn’t available, canned pineapple works, just make sure to drain it well. You can also swap it for bell peppers or zucchini for a veggie twist.
Bell Pepper: A green bell pepper adds a nice crunch and color. Feel free to use other colors like red or yellow if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a healthier choice if you’re watching your salt intake. Coconut aminos can serve as a gluten-free option while giving a similar flavor.
Honey/Brown Sugar: If avoiding sugar, consider agave syrup or maple syrup as good alternatives in the marinade.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken Skewers?
Grilling chicken skewers to perfection is all about timing and heat. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. A hot grill helps achieve those appealing grill marks!
- Make sure to marinate the chicken long enough; 1 hour works great for flavor. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can help.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; keep some space between each piece to allow even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Turn the skewers frequently for even cooking and to avoid burning. Aim for 10-12 minutes total cooking time.
- Check for doneness: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
These tips should help you grill up tender, juicy skewers every time!
Easy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with Homemade Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
For the Teriyaki Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and about 15-20 minutes for cooking, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. Overall, you’re looking at around 1 hour for a delicious meal that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, water, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until everything is well mixed. This marinade will make your chicken flavorful and juicy!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken pieces and place them in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the delicious marinade over the chicken pieces, making sure they’re all coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. Don’t forget to save the other half of the marinade for later use!
3. Prepare the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20 minutes to prevent burning while on the grill.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to thread everything onto the skewers. Take the skewers and alternate threading chicken pieces, pineapple chunks, and bell pepper pieces. This way, each bite will be bursting with flavor!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Carefully place the skewers on the grill and cook them for approximately 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked (white throughout) and has beautiful grill marks.
6. Prepare the Sauce:
While the skewers are grilling, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Then, stir in the cornstarch mixed with water, and cook until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes). Take it off the heat when it’s ready!
7. Baste and Final Cook:
During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the skewers with the thickened teriyaki sauce for extra flavor. Also, baste them again right after you take them off the grill for that delightful shine!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, place the skewers on a plate over a bed of cooked white rice. If you like, drizzle any extra teriyaki sauce over the top. Enjoy your colorful, tasty skewers with family and friends!
These teriyaki chicken skewers are sure to be a hit every time! Happy cooking! 🍗🍍
FAQ for Easy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Different Vegetables in the Skewers?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the bell pepper and pineapple for other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours in the fridge. Marinating them for longer than that can make the chicken too salty or change the texture. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will add great flavor!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, the marinade can be made in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to use, give it a good shake or stir before marinating the chicken.
What Should I Serve with Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair perfectly with white rice, but you can also serve them with quinoa, soba noodles, or steamed veggies for a complete meal. A side of sesame green beans or a fresh salad works nicely too!
