These teriyaki chicken skewers feature juicy chicken marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce made from scratch. The sauce doubles as both marinade and basting liquid, creating layers of flavor as the chicken grills. Made with soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, and fresh ginger, the sauce achieves the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The chicken is grilled until perfectly cooked while being basted with extra sauce for caramelization. Topped with sesame seeds and green onions, these skewers are perfect for summer grilling.
The perfect Teriyaki Chicken Skewer combines juicy, marinated chicken with a glossy, caramelized exterior that develops on the grill. These skewers transform simple chicken into something extraordinary through a homemade teriyaki sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and umami. In my kitchen, they've become our go-to recipe for both casual summer barbecues and elevated weeknight dinners.
Last weekend, I served these at a backyard gathering, and guests couldn't believe the sauce was homemade. The secret? Taking time to properly reduce the sauce and allowing the chicken to marinate, letting those flavors penetrate deeply.
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips
Chicken: Thighs offer more flavor and moisture
Soy Sauce: Low sodium allows better control
Brown Sugar: Dark adds deeper flavor
Ginger: Fresh provides brightest flavor
Garlic: Fresh minced, not powder
Rice Vinegar: Adds perfect tang
Sesame Oil: Just a touch for authenticity
Honey: Creates perfect glaze
Detailed Instructions
The Perfect Setup
1. Begin with your mise en place - cube chicken uniformly, mince garlic and ginger, and measure all sauce ingredients. Start soaking skewers in water immediately. This organization ensures smooth execution when timing matters.
The Sauce Creation
2. Create your cornstarch slurry first, then combine with remaining sauce ingredients in a saucepan. Heat gradually, stirring constantly until it thickens to coat the back of a spoon. The color should deepen to a rich brown. Let cool completely before using.
The Marination Process
3. Place your chicken and half the cooled sauce in a zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. Massage gently to coat every piece. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though longer develops better flavor. Reserve remaining sauce for basting.
The Skewer Assembly
4. Thread marinated chicken onto soaked skewers, leaving small spaces between pieces to ensure even cooking. Don't pack too tightly - the chicken needs room to cook through and caramelize on all sides.
The Grilling Magic
5. Preheat and oil your grill grates well. Cook skewers over medium heat, turning every few minutes for even cooking. Baste with reserved sauce during the final few minutes to create a glossy glaze.
The teriyaki sauce can be made up to a week ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Chicken can be marinated for up to 24 hours. Cooked skewers will keep for 3-4 days refrigerated. For best results, reheat on the grill or under the broiler to restore the glazed exterior.
Variations and Creative Twists
Through countless preparations, I've discovered exciting variations. Thread colorful vegetables between chicken pieces - bell peppers, onions, and pineapple work beautifully. Add a touch of mirin to the sauce for authentic Japanese flavor. Sometimes I'll incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat.
Professional Tips for Perfect Results
Maintain consistent grill temperature
Turn skewers with tongs and spatula together
Allow sauce to reduce until properly thickened
Rest meat after cooking under loose foil
Consider making extra sauce for serving
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and green onions
These Teriyaki Chicken Skewers prove that simple ingredients, treated with care, can create something extraordinary. Whether for a backyard barbecue or family dinner, they offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory that everyone loves.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes, make sauce up to 3 days ahead and store in refrigerator.
→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, though thighs stay juicier. Cut breast meat into even pieces.
→ How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes, up to 8 hours for more flavor.
→ Can I make these in the oven?
Yes, broil 6 inches from heat, turning every 3-4 minutes until done.
→ Why cool the sauce before marinating?
Hot sauce can partially cook the chicken, leading to uneven cooking.
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Marinated chicken skewers grilled and basted with homemade teriyaki sauce, topped with sesame seeds and green onions.
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