Mouthwatering Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs: Your Ultimate Summer BBQ Recipe
Prepare to elevate your grilling game with these incredibly delicious Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs. A true crowd-pleaser, this recipe offers a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it an ideal choice for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive summertime gathering. Each succulent piece of chicken is first marinated in our signature homemade teriyaki glaze, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor, then expertly grilled until golden brown and irresistibly juicy. These kabobs are versatile enough to serve as a delightful appetizer or a satisfying main course.
One of the best aspects of these teriyaki chicken skewers is their adaptability. While the chicken itself is the star, you can easily customize your kabobs by adding a variety of colorful vegetables and fruits. The key to successful additions is cutting all ingredients to a uniform size to ensure even cooking. Beyond that, feel free to unleash your creativity! Some popular choices that complement the teriyaki flavor beautifully include crisp bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sweet pineapple chunks, vibrant red onions, tender zucchini, juicy cherry tomatoes, and earthy mushrooms. These additions not only enhance the taste but also add visual appeal, making your skewers a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs: A Flavorful Summer Essential
These grilled teriyaki chicken skewers are not just a meal; they’re an experience. They embody everything you love about summer grilling: vibrant flavors, ease of preparation, and the joy of eating outdoors. What makes this recipe truly special is our homemade teriyaki chicken marinade. Crafted with just a few simple, wholesome ingredients, this marinade infuses the chicken with an incredible depth of flavor, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy bites that melt in your mouth. Forget store-bought sauces; once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back!
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for an exciting family dinner, these chicken teriyaki kabobs fit the bill perfectly. They can gracefully transition from a casual appetizer, offering a tantalizing start to any meal, to a hearty main dish when paired with rice or a fresh salad. The possibilities for adding other ingredients to each skewer are endless, allowing for endless customization. Imagine combining the savory chicken with sweet pineapple chunks, crisp bell peppers, or sharp red onions – each bite a delightful medley of textures and tastes. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make these skewers uniquely yours. If you’re on the hunt for more grilled kabob inspiration, be sure to explore other fantastic recipes such as our Grilled Vegetable Kabobs, Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs, or these savory Asian Beef Kabobs for more culinary adventures.
Key Ingredients for Irresistible Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs
Creating sensational teriyaki chicken kabobs starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the rich, balanced flavors and achieving that perfect tender texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
- Chicken: For this recipe, we recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into uniform 1-inch pieces. This size is ideal for quick and even cooking. Alternatively, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for an even juicier result and richer flavor. Plan on approximately 5-6 ounces of meat per person to ensure generous servings.
- Soy Sauce: The cornerstone of any teriyaki sauce, soy sauce provides the essential umami and savory depth. Both regular and low-sodium soy sauce work wonderfully, so choose according to your preference for saltiness.
- Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar is our preferred choice for the marinade. Its molasses notes add a delightful sweetness and a touch of caramelization, creating that signature sweet-and-salty balance that makes teriyaki so addictive.
- Oil: Avocado oil is an excellent choice for this marinade due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor, which won’t overpower the other ingredients. Any high-quality vegetable oil can be used as a substitute. If you’re looking to add an extra layer of authentic Asian flavor, a small amount of sesame oil (about 1-2 teaspoons) can be incorporated, but use it sparingly as its flavor is quite potent.
- Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions contribute a mild, fresh onion flavor to the marinade, adding aromatic complexity without being too pungent. They also add a lovely pop of green.
- Ginger: Fresh ginger is highly recommended for its bright, zesty, and slightly spicy notes. About 2 inches of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced or grated, will provide the best flavor. If fresh ginger is unavailable, ginger powder can be used as a convenient alternative, with 2 teaspoons typically sufficing.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is always superior for its robust and aromatic qualities. However, in a pinch, jarred minced garlic can be used. Garlic is crucial for adding a savory foundation to the marinade.
- Sesame Seeds: These are an optional but highly recommended garnish. Sprinkled over the finished kabobs, sesame seeds add a subtle nutty crunch and an appealing visual finish. Any type of sesame seeds (white, black, or toasted) will work beautifully.
- Wooden Skewers: The size of the wooden skewers can vary based on your preference. Crucially, remember to soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 1 hour before threading any ingredients and grilling. This essential step prevents the skewers from charring or catching fire on the hot grill, ensuring a safe and successful cooking experience.
How to Make Perfect Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these flavorful grilled chicken kabobs is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps for a memorable meal:
1. Prepare the Homemade Teriyaki Marinade
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, light brown sugar, avocado oil, sliced green onions, ginger (powder or fresh), and minced garlic.
- Whisk all ingredients vigorously until they are thoroughly combined and the brown sugar has dissolved.
- Crucially, before adding the chicken, remove approximately 1/4 cup of this freshly made marinade and store it in a separate, small container. This reserved marinade will be used later as a basting sauce to brush onto the chicken while it cooks on the grill, adding an extra layer of glossy teriyaki flavor and a beautiful glaze. Ensure it does not come into contact with raw chicken to keep it safe for basting.
2. Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
- Transfer the remaining teriyaki marinade into a large, resealable gallon freezer bag.
- Add the cut chicken pieces to the bag with the marinade.
- Seal the bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed, and gently shake and massage the bag to coat all chicken pieces evenly with the marinade.
- Place the sealed bag in the refrigerator to marinate. For optimal flavor and tenderness, allow the chicken to marinate for a minimum of 2 hours, but for the best results, aim for 4-8 hours. You can even marinate it for up to 24 hours, preparing it the day before your grilling session.
3. Prepare Your Skewers
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare your wooden skewers. Place them in a shallow baking dish or tray and completely cover them with water.
- Allow the wooden skewers to soak for at least 1 hour. This critical step prevents the wood from burning or charring when exposed to the high heat of the grill, ensuring your kabobs stay intact and cook perfectly.
4. Grill Your Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs to Perfection
- Preheat your grill to a medium-high temperature, aiming for approximately 335-375 degrees Fahrenheit (168-190 degrees Celsius). A slightly lower temperature helps prevent the sugars in the marinade from burning too quickly.
- Once the chicken has finished marinating, remove it from the refrigerator. Discard any excess marinade from the bag that came into contact with raw chicken.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked kabob sticks. If adding vegetables or fruit (like bell peppers, pineapple, or onion), alternate them with the chicken pieces. Be mindful to space all ingredients evenly on the skewer to promote uniform cooking. Don’t overcrowd the skewers.
- Carefully place the assembled chicken kabobs directly onto the preheated grill grates.
- Grill for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken pieces are beautifully golden brown and show attractive grill marks.
- Flip the kabobs, and using a brush, generously baste them with the reserved, uncooked teriyaki sauce (from step 1). Continue to grill for another 5-7 minutes, turning and basting occasionally, until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches a safe 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) when checked with a meat thermometer. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and transfer them to a clean platter.
- Allow them to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period is essential as it allows the juices within the chicken to redistribute, resulting in exceptionally tender and moist meat.
- Serve your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs warm, optionally sprinkled with a scattering of sesame seeds for added texture and a nutty finish.
- These kabobs pair wonderfully with fluffy white rice, a fresh green salad, or additional grilled vegetables. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs
The grilling time for chicken kabobs can vary based on several factors, including your grill’s temperature, the size of your chicken pieces, and their proximity to the heat source. Generally, if your grill is preheated to around 325-375°F (160-190°C) and your chicken pieces are cut into 1-inch cubes, the kabobs will typically take about 15-20 minutes to cook through. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer for safety.
For chicken kabobs, especially those with a sugary marinade like teriyaki, we recommend grilling at a medium-high temperature, specifically between 325-375°F (160-190°C). This range allows the chicken to cook thoroughly without burning the marinade’s sugars too quickly, ensuring a beautifully caramelized exterior and a moist interior.
Absolutely, yes! Soaking wooden skewers is a crucial step to prevent them from igniting or charring excessively on the grill. Place your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before you plan to thread your marinated chicken. This simple preparation ensures your kabobs cook without the sticks catching fire.
Yes, chicken skewers can definitely be cooked in the oven if grilling isn’t an option. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). The cooking time will depend on the size of your chicken pieces and the quantity you’re baking. On average, expect them to take about 25-35 minutes. It’s vital to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
While homemade teriyaki marinade offers the freshest flavor, you can certainly use a good quality store-bought teriyaki sauce in a pinch. Look for brands with minimal added sugars and preservatives for the best taste. Remember to reserve some sauce for basting during grilling, ensuring it hasn’t touched raw chicken.
Teriyaki chicken kabobs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Classic choices include steamed white or brown rice, coconut rice, or fried rice. For vegetable options, consider a crisp Asian-inspired salad, grilled asparagus, roasted broccoli, or sautéed snap peas. Noodles like lo mein or udon also make a fantastic accompaniment.
Storing and Reheating Your Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs
- Refrigerator: To store leftover grilled teriyaki chicken, first remove all the chicken (and any cooked vegetables) from the wooden skewers. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This ensures freshness and makes reheating easier.
- To Reheat: You have a couple of options for reheating. For a quick method, microwave the leftovers until heated through. Alternatively, for a better texture, gently reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or a tiny bit of avocado oil to prevent drying out and to help steam the chicken back to tenderness. They taste exceptional served over fresh rice!
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Recipe
These grilled teriyaki chicken kebabs are a super easy summertime dinner idea perfect for serving as an appetizer or main course. Each piece of tender, juicy marinated chicken is covered in our homemade teriyaki glaze and grilled to perfection.
Author: The Carefree Kitchen
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Yields: 6 people
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup avocado oil (or any vegetable oil)
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 2 teaspoons ginger powder (or 2″ fresh ginger, peeled and sliced)
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 2½ pounds chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into 1″ pieces
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- 12 Wooden Skewers (soaked in water for 1 hour)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, oil, green onions, ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk until combined. Remove about 1/4 cup of marinade and store in a separate container to brush onto the chicken as it cooks.
- Transfer the rest of the teriyaki marinade to a large freezer bag and add the diced chicken. Seal, shake, and place in the fridge to marinate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours.
Grilling the Kabobs
- Place the wooden skewers in a shallow baking dish and cover with water. Soak for at least 1 hour so the sticks don’t burn while the chicken cooks.
- Preheat the grill to about 335-375 degrees F (168-190 degrees C).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, then thread onto the soaked kabob sticks, being careful to evenly space the chicken (and any optional veggies/fruit) so they cook evenly.
- Place the chicken kabobs on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until the chicken is golden brown. Turn the chicken over, brush with the reserved teriyaki sauce, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
- Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest on a platter for about 5 minutes. Serve warm, sprinkled with sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Notes
Storing leftovers: Remove all chicken from the wooden skewers and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Either microwave or reheat in a skillet over the stovetop slowly with a little water or avocado oil for best results.
Nutrition
Calories: 216kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 48mg | Sodium: 1171mg | Potassium: 350mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 64IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 1mg
Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian
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Explore More Delicious Kabob Recipes for Your Next Cookout
If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and flavor of these Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs, you’ll be thrilled to discover a world of other fantastic skewer recipes perfect for any occasion. Kabobs are a versatile and fun way to cook, offering endless possibilities for flavor combinations and ingredients. Expand your culinary repertoire with these mouthwatering ideas:
- Zesty Southwest Chicken Kabobs: A vibrant blend of spices and fresh flavors for a taste of the American Southwest.
- Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs: For those who love a little heat and a creamy, sweet chili sauce.
- Irresistible Bang Bang Shrimp Kabobs: A seafood twist on the popular bang bang flavor, perfect for grilling.
- Hearty Grilled Vegetable Kabobs: A colorful and healthy option, featuring an assortment of seasonal vegetables.
- Aromatic Lemon Rosemary Chicken Kabobs: A classic combination that’s fresh, fragrant, and incredibly satisfying.
- Innovative Wedge Salad Kabobs: Turn your favorite salad into a fun-to-eat skewer, ideal for appetizers.
- Charming Italian Mini Kabob Appetizers: Bite-sized skewers bursting with Mediterranean flavors, perfect for entertaining.
- Savory Asian Beef Kabobs: Another fantastic Asian-inspired option, featuring tender marinated beef.
- Sweet and Smoky Chicken Bacon Pineapple Kabobs: A delightful blend of sweet, salty, and savory.
Whether you’re planning a summer BBQ, a family dinner, or simply looking for new ways to enjoy chicken, these Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are an absolute must-try. Our simple, homemade marinade ensures the most juicy, tender chicken every time, making this recipe a guaranteed hit. Serve them as delightful appetizers or a complete meal alongside your favorite summer barbecue recipes. Happy grilling!