Korean Chicken Skewers

The sizzle of chicken on the grill, the aroma of sweet and spicy marinade filling the air—it’s a moment you’ll savor. These Korean Chicken Skewers are perfect for a summer BBQ or a weeknight dinner, requiring just a hands-on time of 30 minutes while the marinating does the flavorful work. The balance of tenderness and smokiness makes this dish a consistent crowd-pleaser.

This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves bold flavors and easy preparation. It’s great for outdoor gatherings, family dinners, or prepping ahead for busy weeknights. You can marinate the chicken a day in advance to save time on cooking day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The chicken turns out juicy and tender, thanks to marinating.
• A delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors captures Korean BBQ essence.
• Cooking on skewers makes for easy serving and grilling.
• It’s versatile enough to pair with various side dishes.

What You’ll Need

Gather the ingredients for this flavorful dish.

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 lbs. chicken thighs, boneless, skinless, cut into 1 1/2" cubes

For the Marinade

• 2 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp gochujang

For Serving

• Chopped green onions (optional garnish)

Gochujang adds authentic heat and flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken thighs can be replaced with chicken breast.
• Brown sugar can be swapped for honey.
• Gochujang can be substituted with sriracha for a milder taste.
• Fresh ginger may be replaced with ground ginger in a pinch.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps for delicious Korean Chicken Skewers.

Cut Chicken

Cut chicken into 1 1/2" cubes and toss in a bowl.

Whisk Marinade

In another small bowl, whisk together the remaining marinade ingredients until smooth and well combined.

Marinate Chicken

Pour half of the marinade over the chicken and mix to fully coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best flavor.

Prepare Skewers

Cover the remaining sauce and refrigerate for later basting. When the chicken finishes marinating, place it on skewers.

Grill Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium heat. Once hot, place the skewers on the lightly oiled grill. Turn every 3-4 minutes until cooked through (internal temp 165 degrees), about 20-30 minutes. Baste with remaining marinade during the last few turns.

Serve

Remove skewers from the grill and serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired, alongside your favorite side dishes.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, chicken skewers can become dry.
Reheat: in a microwave or oven until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor impact.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
• Ensure the grill is properly preheated for even cooking.
• Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling for juicy results.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with steamed rice or a fresh salad.
• Serve with kimchi or pickled vegetables for a true Korean experience.
• Perfect for entertaining at a backyard barbecue or picnic.