There’s something irresistible about the sweet and savory glaze of teriyaki chicken skewers sizzling over a hot grill. Just the thought of tender, juicy bites coated in that glossy sauce brings back memories of backyard barbecues and cozy family dinners. What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up yet packed with bold flavors that wow every time. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or something special to impress guests, these teriyaki chicken skewers hit the spot. Plus, they’re endlessly versatile—pair with rice, toss in a salad, or eat right off the skewer for a fun, hands-on feast. Let me show you how to make this crowd-pleaser a new staple in your kitchen!
Why Choose Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
Bold Flavors burst with a perfect blend of sweet and savory that transforms simple chicken into a mouthwatering treat. Effortless Prep makes this recipe ideal for busy nights—just marinate, skewer, and grill! Juicy Texture ensures every bite is tender and satisfying. Versatile Serving options let you enjoy them with rice, salads, or as a protein-packed snack. Crowd-Pleasing appeal means these skewers are perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends with minimal fuss.
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Ingredients
For the Chicken and Marinade
- Boneless chicken thighs – choose thighs for juicy, tender bites packed with flavor.
- Soy sauce – the salty backbone of the teriyaki sauce, balancing sweetness perfectly.
- Honey – adds a natural, golden sweetness that carmelizes beautifully on the grill.
- Fresh ginger – grated for a zingy warmth that brightens the marinade.
- Garlic cloves – finely minced to deepen the savory notes in your teriyaki chicken skewers.
- Rice vinegar – a splash to add subtle acidity and balance the glaze.
- Sesame oil – just a little for that nutty aroma that rounds out the marinade.
For the Skewers & Garnish
- Wooden or metal skewers – soak wooden ones to prevent burning and ensure even grilling.
- Green onions – sliced thin for a fresh, crisp garnish after cooking.
- Sesame seeds – toasted lightly to sprinkle on top for extra crunch and visual appeal.
Optional Side Pairings
- Steamed jasmine rice – classic and fluffy, it soaks up every drop of the teriyaki glaze.
- Fresh cucumber slices – cool and crisp to balance the sweet-savory flavors beautifully.
- Mixed greens salad – toss with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
- Marinate Chicken: Combine marinade ingredients (soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil) in a bowl. Stir until honey dissolves and chicken thighs are well coated. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F). Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking and achieve those perfect char lines.
- Thread Chicken: Divide the marinated chicken into 8 pieces. Thread onto soaked skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill Skewers: Place skewers on the grill. Cook 5–7 minutes per side until chicken is opaque and registers 165°F. Brush with extra marinade for a glossy finish.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove skewers and let rest 5 minutes to lock in juices. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for fresh crunch.
Optional: Drizzle extra honey or soy glaze before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
Imagine a vibrant spread that complements the sweet and savory allure of teriyaki chicken skewers—each addition enhancing your meal.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy staple absorbs every droplet of glaze, offering a comforting base that pairs beautifully with the skewers’ flavors.
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Fresh Cucumber Slices: Crisp and refreshing, these slices provide a cool contrast that balances the rich and sweet profile of the chicken.
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Mixed Greens Salad: A light, verdant salad dressed with vinaigrette adds a crunchy, zesty element, elevating the overall experience and freshness of the meal.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and corn add a smoky, grilled dimension, enhancing the skewers while keeping the meal colorful.
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Sesame Noodles: These flavorful noodles tossed with sesame oil can soak up the teriyaki sauce, creating a delightful harmony of flavors and textures.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: A zesty, refreshing drink that helps cleanse the palate and complements the sweetness of the teriyaki glaze.
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Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note; this rich and creamy dessert provides a luxurious contrast to the savory skewers.
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Lemon Sorbet: For a cool, light finish, this sorbet offers a bright citrus note that refreshes the taste buds after the hearty flavors of the meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the boneless chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those bold flavors to permeate deeply. Simply combine the marinade ingredients and coat the chicken, then cover it and refrigerate. To maintain quality, make sure the chicken is sealed tightly to prevent any oxidation. When you’re ready to serve, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill as directed, finishing with a brush of extra marinade for that glossy glaze. This way, you can enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality teriyaki chicken skewers with minimal effort on a busy weeknight!
Variations & Substitutions for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Customize this delightful dish to suit your taste buds and pantry staples for a delightful mealtime experience.
- Pineapple Addition: Incorporate juicy pineapple chunks on the skewers for a sweet tropical twist that perfectly pairs with the savory sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the marinade for a flavorful heat that elevates the dish.
- Veggie Twists: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes on the skewers for a colorful and nutritious boost—loaded with fresh flavors!
- Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to enjoy a gluten-free version without sacrificing taste.
- Honey Alternative: Use maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly sweetness that beautifully caramelizes during grilling.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the marinade for a fragrant twist that brightens every bite, making it refreshingly vibrant.
- Smokehouse Flavor: Try adding a touch of liquid smoke to the marinade for a smoky essence, reminiscent of traditional barbecue flavor that everyone loves.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze in some fresh lime or lemon juice for a zesty brightness that creates a delightful balance with the sauce’s richness.
How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Fridge: Store leftover teriyaki chicken skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they cool down completely before sealing to maintain quality.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked skewers in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Lay them flat to avoid sticking, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Use an oven or a grill to reheat skewers at 350°F until heated through, approximately 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, keep cooked skewers at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure safety and flavor integrity.
Tips for the Best Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
- Marinate Thoroughly: Allow chicken to marinate at least 30 minutes; this ensures deep flavor and tender texture in your teriyaki chicken skewers.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Leave small gaps between pieces on skewers to promote even cooking and prevent steaming instead of grilling.
- Preheat Grill Well: A hot grill (around 400°F) creates those beautiful char marks and locks juices inside each bite.
- Monitor Internal Temperature: Cook chicken until it reaches 165°F to stay safe and juicy, avoiding dry or tough meat.
- Use a Basting Brush: Apply extra marinade during grilling for a glossy, flavorful glaze that keeps skewers moist.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: Prevent burning by soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Easy Juicy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers You’ll Crave Tonight Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
I recommend using boneless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender after grilling, unlike breasts which can dry out. Look for thighs with a slight pink color and no dark spots or off-odors for freshness. The more even the pieces, the better they’ll cook on the skewers!
Can I store leftover Teriyaki Chicken Skewers in the fridge?
Absolutely! Place cooled skewers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. This keeps the chicken safe to eat and maintains that delicious flavor. Just be sure to reheat them properly before enjoying again!
Is it possible to freeze Teriyaki Chicken Skewers? How?
Yes, freezing is a great option if you want to save leftovers or prep ahead. First, let the cooked skewers cool completely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag, laying them flat to prevent sticking. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on a grill or oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
What if my chicken turns out dry or tough?
This can happen if the chicken is overcooked or if the marinade time was too short. Make sure to marinate at least 30 minutes for tenderizing and keep the grill temperature medium-high at about 400°F. Use a meat thermometer to cook to exactly 165°F—no more! Also, avoid overcrowding on skewers to allow even heat circulation.
Are Teriyaki Chicken Skewers safe for pets?
While the grilled chicken itself might seem safe, the teriyaki marinade contains soy sauce and garlic, which are toxic to dogs and cats. Always keep these skewers out of reach from pets and opt for plain cooked chicken if you want to share a treat.
Easy Juicy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers You’ll Crave Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine marinade ingredients (soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil) in a bowl. Stir until honey dissolves and chicken thighs are well coated. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes.
- Heat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F). Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Divide the marinated chicken into 8 pieces. Thread onto soaked skewers, leaving small gaps for even cooking.
- Place skewers on the grill. Cook 5–7 minutes per side until chicken is opaque and registers 165°F. Brush with extra marinade.
- Remove skewers and let rest 5 minutes. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
