Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

The sizzle of juicy chicken skewers grilling away transports you to a summer BBQ, where the aroma of teriyaki sauce fills the air. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are not only a delight to the senses, but they also come together in about an hour, making them an ideal family meal or party dish. The secret to their success lies in the rich, homemade teriyaki sauce that perfectly coats and flavors the chicken.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress guests at their next gathering or simply enjoy a savory weeknight dinner. You can prepare the sauce in advance, letting the flavors meld for an even tastier experience, and store any leftovers for later.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The homemade teriyaki sauce is a rich blend of sweet and savory flavors.
• Perfectly grilled chicken ends up juicy and tender with each bite.
• Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or side dishes.
• Quick to prep and an excellent choice for outdoor grilling.

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Teriyaki Chicken Skewers.

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 cup water
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup soy sauce, low sodium recommended
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs. chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into 1" cubes
• 8 skewers

For Serving

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onion

Use wooden skewers? Soak them in water first to prevent burning.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken thighs can be replaced with chicken breasts.
• Substitute honey with agave nectar for a vegan option.
• Fresh ginger works well with ground ginger in a pinch.
• Low sodium soy sauce is great for health-conscious eaters.

How to Make It

Follow these steps to create delicious Teriyaki Chicken Skewers.

Make the Sauce

Combine cornstarch and water in a small bowl. In a medium saucepan, add the remaining ingredients along with the cornstarch/water mixture. Stirring frequently, bring the sauce to a simmer. Cook until the sauce lightly thickens and turns dark brown, about 5-8 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and let cool completely. (Placing it in the fridge can speed up this process.)

Marinate the Chicken

Once the sauce is completely cooled, place cubed chicken in a large ziplock bag. Pour half of the sauce over the chicken and gently shake to coat the pieces evenly. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, ensuring it absorbs all the delicious flavors. Place the remaining sauce aside for later.

Prepare the Grill

When the chicken is done marinating, take the skewers and thread the chicken pieces onto them. Heat the grill to medium heat for optimal cooking.

Grill the Skewers

Once the grill is hot, carefully place the skewers on a lightly oiled grill. Turn the skewers every 3-4 minutes, cooking until the chicken is fully cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This should take about 20-30 minutes. During the last few turns, baste with the remaining teriyaki sauce for added flavor.

Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and serve them hot, garnished with chopped green onion and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, but best enjoyed fresh.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 1-2 minutes or until hot.

Tips for Best Results

• For a pop of color, add bell peppers or zucchini to the skewers.
• Let the sauce cool completely before mixing with the chicken for best marination.
• Ensure the grill is preheated to prevent sticking.
• Rotate skewers consistently to achieve even grilling.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
• Pair with grilled vegetables for a summertime feast.
• Ideal for parties, game days, or casual family dinners.