These Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are a perfect treat for any get-together! Marinated in a sweet and sticky sauce, they’re juicy and packed with flavor.
What’s great is that they’re so easy to make! I love firing up the grill, and the smell of these cooking always makes everyone hungry. Perfect for sharing—or not! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Diced chicken breast is perfect for skewers, but you can also use chicken thigh for a juicier option. If you have turkey, it’s a great substitute too!
Honey: Honey gives sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken. If you prefer, maple syrup or agave nectar can work as alternatives for a different flavor profile.
Soy Sauce: This adds umami flavor. If you’re watching sodium, consider using low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option. Coconut aminos can also replace soy sauce for a milder flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes: If you want a kick, these are great. For less heat, skip them or use a sweet paprika instead for a touch of flavor without the spice.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken perfectly cooked on skewers is key! Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for a few hours if you can. This helps the flavors infuse better.
- Preheat your grill well to help sear the outside quickly, locking in the juices.
- Turn the skewers every few minutes while grilling for even cooking. Look for a nice char and make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.
Let the skewers rest briefly after grilling so the juices settle in. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor!
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For Garnishing:
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 30 minutes for prep, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken (longer if you have time). Grilling will take about 10-12 minutes. Overall, set aside around 1 hour for this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Soak the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for about 30 minutes. This helps to prevent burning during grilling. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step!
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, fresh ginger, sesame oil, vegetable oil, red pepper flakes, along with some salt and pepper. This delicious marinade will give your chicken a lovely flavor.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the diced chicken to the marinade and stir it around to make sure each piece is coated well. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you can, letting it marinate for a few hours makes it even more tasty!
4. Preheat the Grill:
While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat so it’s ready when the chicken is done soaking in the flavors.
5. Thread the Chicken onto Skewers:
Once the chicken is done marinating, take it out of the fridge and thread the pieces onto your skewer sticks. Make sure they’re evenly spaced for even cooking.
6. Grill the Chicken Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the chicken to be cooked through and have a nice char. Check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C).
7. Rest and Prepare to Serve:
Once the chicken is grilled, remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. You can prepare any extra dipping sauce during this time if you like, such as a sweet chili sauce.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish your chicken skewers with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your tasty honey garlic chicken skewers with your favorite sides or dipping sauces!
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this dish, offering a juicier texture. Just ensure they’re cut into similar bite-sized pieces for even cooking. You may need to grill them a couple of extra minutes since thighs can take slightly longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, agave syrup or maple syrup can be used instead. Both will provide a similar sweetness and viscosity. For a lower-calorie option, try a sugar substitute that measures like sugar!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes, to maintain their texture.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade up to 2 days in advance. Just keep it sealed in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. This allows the flavors to develop even more, making your chicken skewers even tastier!
