Easy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Name: Easy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Highlighted under: World Table

I absolutely love making Easy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers for my family and friends. This dish is not only simple to prepare, but it also bursts with sweet and savory flavors that everyone adores. With tender chicken pieces marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, these skewers make for a delightful meal or a fun barbecue treat. I usually serve them with a side of steamed rice and veggies, turning them into a complete and satisfying dish. It's a surefire way to impress at any gathering!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-30T19:30:28.027Z

When I first tried making teriyaki chicken skewers, I was amazed by how the marinade transformed the meat into something truly flavorful. The key is to let it sit for at least an hour—this way, every bite is infused with a delicious blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. I also found that grilling them at high heat gives those beautiful charred edges, which enhances the taste even more.

One particular evening, I hosted a small barbecue, and these skewers were the star of the show. Everyone couldn't get enough! I recommend pairing them with a tangy dipping sauce for an added burst of flavor. Trust me, this dish is guaranteed to bring smiles all around!

Why You'll Love These Skewers
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
A perfect balance between sweet and savory
Great for grilling parties or family dinners
Naturally gluten-free when using tamari or coconut aminos

Marinade Magic

The success of Easy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers lies in the robust marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role; for instance, soy sauce contributes necessary saltiness and umami, while brown sugar caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a slightly crispy exterior. The garlic and ginger add aromatic depth, ensuring each bite is layered with taste. It's essential to let the chicken soak in this mixture for at least 30 minutes, but for an even bolder flavor, marinate it for up to two hours.

If you're looking to make this dish your own, consider adding a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick. This balance of sweet and spicy can elevate the dish and cater to different flavor preferences within your family or friends. Additionally, using a mix of soy sauce and a gluten-free alternative like tamari ensures everyone can enjoy these skewers without dietary concerns.

Assembling and Grilling Tips

When assembling the skewers, threading them properly is key to even cooking. I recommend leaving a little space between each chicken piece to allow the heat to circulate effectively. You can also mix in colorful bell peppers, red onions, or zucchini between the pieces of chicken, adding vibrancy and additional flavor to the skewers. If using vegetables, make sure they are roughly the same size as the chicken for even cooking.

Grilling the skewers should be approached with attention to timing and temperature. Heaving the grill to a medium-high heat ensures a good sear, creating those desirable grill marks that enhance the dish’s presentation. Keep an eye on your skewers, turning them every few minutes for about 10-12 minutes total, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This method not only provides an inviting char but also locks in the juices.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

For the Skewers:

1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your taste! You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the skewers for extra flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious teriyaki chicken skewers:

Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and rice vinegar until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using an outdoor grill, ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers. You can alternate with bell peppers or other vegetables if desired.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and serve them hot, drizzled with any remaining teriyaki sauce or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Enjoy your skewers with steamed rice or a refreshing salad!

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. Also, don't forget to soak your bamboo skewers
this prevents them from burning on the grill.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Preparing these skewers ahead of time can greatly simplify your meal prep. After marinating, you can thread the chicken onto the skewers and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows flavors to deepen, yielding an even more enjoyable dining experience. Just remember to keep them tightly wrapped to prevent any contamination from other foods in your fridge.

If you have leftover skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, either use your grill, or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. The skewers maintain their flavor and texture remarkably well, making them perfect for meal prepping.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to experiment with different proteins like shrimp, tofu, or even beef, each will give a unique spin to your teriyaki skewers. Just ensure the cooking time adjusts accordingly—shrimp cooks quickly and only needs about 6-8 minutes on the grill, while beef may require a longer marination for tenderness. You can also explore different marinades like orange or pineapple juice for a fruity twist.

For serving, a side of steamed rice is classic, but consider adding a refreshing cucumber salad or a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce for that extra flavor punch. Skewers also pair beautifully with Asian coleslaw or grilled corn, adding color and texture to your meal. Don't forget sesame seeds or chopped green onions as a garnish; they add a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat for these skewers?

Absolutely! You can use pork, beef, or even tofu as alternatives, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

→ What should I serve with teriyaki chicken skewers?

These skewers pair wonderfully with steamed rice, a crunchy salad, or grilled vegetables.

→ Can I make the teriyaki sauce from scratch?

Yes, you can easily make the sauce from scratch using soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger, and water.