These Easy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are perfect for a quick and tasty meal! The chicken is tender and coated in a sweet, sticky marinade that everyone loves.
Skewering the chicken makes them fun to eat and easy to grill. I always serve them with steamed rice or fresh veggies for a colorful plate. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I always opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs since they stay juicy and flavorful when grilled. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts work too.
Mirin: This sweet rice wine adds a unique flavor to the marinade. If you don’t have mirin, mixing 2 tbsp of honey with 2 tbsp of water creates a nice substitute.
Sake: While sake adds depth, it’s optional. If you want to keep things simple, feel free to skip it! A splash of apple juice can also work as a substitute if you want a fruity twist.
Sesame Oil: I love using sesame oil for a nuttier flavor. If you don’t have it, regular vegetable oil does the job just fine.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Stay Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken skewers is in the marinating! Giving the chicken time in the marinade allows it to absorb all those lovely flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the marinade ingredients well, ensuring the sugar dissolves completely.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes; 1-2 hours is even better!
Also, remember to preheat your grill. This creates a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes while brushing with leftover marinade — this helps build that delicious glaze.
Lastly, give the skewers a couple of minutes to rest after grilling. This helps keep them juicy before you dive in!
Easy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with Sweet Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine) or substitute with 2 tbsp honey + 2 tbsp water
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp sake (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
For Skewering:
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if bamboo, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 30 minutes to marinate. Grill time is around 10-12 minutes, making the total time approximately 1 hour, including marinating and cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner and tasty enough to impress your guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by mixing together in a medium bowl the soy sauce, mirin (or your honey and water substitute), brown sugar, sake (if you’re using it), minced garlic, grated ginger, and oil. Whisk until everything is combined and the sugar is dissolved. This sweet marinade is what makes the chicken so tasty!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place your cubed chicken into the bowl with the marinade. Toss it well to ensure all pieces are nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything into a zip-top bag. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; 1-2 hours is best for so much more flavor!
3. Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, take your chicken out of the fridge and thread the marinated pieces onto your skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Once the grill is hot, lightly oil the grates to avoid sticking. Arrange your skewers on the grill and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Brush them with the leftover marinade a few times while grilling for that delicious glaze. You’re looking for the chicken to be cooked through and to have a nice golden color!
5. Let the Chicken Rest:
Once grilled, take the skewers off the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy and tender.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the skewers with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pretty touch. These skewers are best served warm with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.
Enjoy your delicious Easy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with a sweet, flavorful marinade! They’re sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that they tend to dry out easier than thighs, so be sure not to overcook them!
What If I Don’t Have Mirin or Sake?
No worries! If you don’t have mirin, you can easily substitute it with a combination of 2 tbsp honey and 2 tbsp water. For sake, you can skip it altogether or use a splash of apple juice for a different flavor profile.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I Grill These Skewers in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking. Just keep an eye on them to prevent overdoing it!
