Korean Chicken Skewers

The aroma of grilled chicken skewers wafting through the air instantly brings to mind summer barbecues and gathering with family and friends. These Korean Chicken Skewers are a delicious treat that takes about 4 hours to marinate and 30 minutes to cook, resulting in tender chicken infused with a savory and slightly sweet glaze. The combination of marinated chicken and grilling makes this recipe a favorite for outdoor gatherings.

This recipe is perfect for anyone craving a taste of Korean barbecue at home. Make it for your next cookout, family dinner, or as a meal prep option for the week. The marinated chicken can be stored in the fridge, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The marinade provides a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
• Grilling gives the chicken an irresistible smoky char.
• The recipe is straightforward and quick once the chicken is marinated.
• Garnished with chopped green onions, it offers a fresh pop of color and flavor.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create flavorful Korean Chicken Skewers.

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 Garnish

• Chopped green onions, optional

Gochujang adds spice and depth of flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken thighs can be replaced with chicken breast.
• Low sodium soy sauce can be swapped for tamari.
• Brown sugar can be substituted with honey.
• Gochujang can be replaced with sriracha for less heat.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Korean Chicken Skewers.

1. Cut chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into 1 1/2" cubes and toss them in a large bowl.

2. Whisk marinade

In a separate small bowl, whisk together fresh ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and gochujang to create a flavorful marinade.

3. Marinate chicken

Pour half of the marinade over the chicken and mix well to fully coat the chicken. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge to marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.

4. Prepare for grilling

Cover the remaining marinade and set it aside in the fridge for basting later. Once the chicken has finished marinating, place the chicken cubes onto skewers.

5. Heat the grill

Preheat your grill to medium heat, ensuring it’s ready for cooking.

6. Grill skewers

Place the skewers on a lightly oiled grill. Turn the skewers every 3-4 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees, which should take about 20-30 minutes.

7. Baste and serve

During the last few turns of grilling, baste the chicken with the remaining marinade. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and serve 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: Yes, freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or grill until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for maximum juiciness.
• Marinate overnight for an even deeper flavor profile.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
• Turn the skewers gently to keep the chicken from falling apart.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of jasmine rice for a complete meal.
• Pair with fresh vegetable skewers for a colorful display.
• Enjoy with kimchi or a simple cucumber salad for added crunch.