Grilled chicken skewers have always been one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something delicious yet easy to prepare. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the smoky flavor the grill imparts to tender chicken pieces.
But it’s the teriyaki glaze that takes these skewers to the next level. The sweet and savory blend creates a mouthwatering combination that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or a simple weeknight dinner, these grilled chicken skewers with teriyaki glaze are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
These ingredients will help you make delicious grilled chicken skewers with a savory teriyaki glaze.
Main Components
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 1.5 pounds |
| Teriyaki sauce | 1/2 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Fresh ginger, grated | 1 tablespoon |
| Bell peppers, chopped | 2 |
| Red onions, chopped | 1 |
| Wooden skewers | 10 pieces |
Optional Additions
- Pineapple chunks
- Zucchini slices
- Mushrooms
- Cherry tomatoes
- Sesame seeds
- Green onions, chopped
- Sriracha sauce for extra heat
Preparation
I start by prepping the chicken and veggies to ensure everything cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors.
Marinating the Chicken
Combine 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon fresh ginger in a bowl. Add 1.5 pounds chicken breasts, slicing them into 1-inch pieces. Mix thoroughly, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Assembling the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with bell peppers and red onions. For variety, include pineapple chunks or zucchini slices. Ensure each skewer has an even distribution of ingredients for consistent grilling.
Grilling Process
Grilling the chicken skewers perfectly ensures a delicious teriyaki glaze and smoky flavor. Follow these steps to achieve optimal results.
Preheating the Grill
I preheat the grill to medium-high heat, reaching approximately 375°F to 400°F. This temperature allows the skewers to cook evenly and develop a nice char. If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals for direct heat. For gas grills, adjust the burners to the desired temperature before adding the skewers.
Cooking Time and Techniques
Each skewer cooks for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes. This technique ensures even cooking and prevents burning the glaze. Brush the skewers with additional teriyaki sauce during the last few minutes to enhance the flavor. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Flavor and Texture
The teriyaki glaze delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that enhance the grilled chicken’s natural taste. Each bite combines the rich umami from the marinade with the smoky char from the grill, creating a deeply satisfying flavor profile. The sweetness of the brown sugar in the glaze complements the savory notes of soy sauce and garlic, ensuring every skewer bursts with harmonious tastes.
Texture plays a crucial role in this dish. The chicken remains tender and juicy, thanks to the marinating process and precise grilling. Vegetables like bell peppers and red onions add a pleasant crunch, providing a contrast to the succulent meat. The caramelized glaze forms a slight stickiness on the exterior, enhancing the overall mouthfeel. This combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and flavorful glaze makes each skewer both delicious and enjoyable to eat.
Serving Suggestions
Enhancing my grilled chicken skewers with the right sides makes the meal complete. I often pair them with:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its light texture balances the sweet teriyaki glaze.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: Adds a refreshing crunch to complement the savory flavors.
- Grilled Asparagus: Offers a smoky taste that matches the skewers perfectly.
- Fresh Pineapple Slices: Brings a sweet contrast that highlights the teriyaki sauce.
- Sesame Noodles: Provides a hearty and nutty side that enriches the meal.
For beverages, I enjoy:
- Iced Green Tea: Refreshing and subtly sweet.
- Chilled Sake: Adds an authentic touch to the dining experience.
- Citrus-Based Cocktails: Enhances the meal with a zesty twist.
When presenting, I arrange the skewers on a large platter, sprinkle sesame seeds, and garnish with chopped green onions. Including small bowls of extra teriyaki glaze or Sriracha sauce allows everyone to customize their flavors.
Conclusion
Grilled chicken skewers with teriyaki glaze have become a staple in my kitchen. The combination of sweet and savory flavors with that perfect smoky char is unbeatable.
They’re incredibly versatile and fit any occasion from casual barbecues to quick weeknight dinners. I love how easy they are to prepare and how much everyone enjoys them.
Give these skewers a try and add a delicious twist to your meal rotation. I’m sure you’ll find yourself making them again and again.
