These Easy Filipino Barbecue Chicken Skewers are juicy and full of flavor! Marinated in a tasty mix of soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar, they grill up perfectly for any cookout.
They’re like little bites of happiness on a stick! I love serving them with a side of rice or a fresh salad. It’s hard to stop at just one! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they are juicy and flavorful. If you need a leaner option, chicken breasts will work, but they may dry out faster during grilling.
Banana Ketchup: This unique ingredient adds sweetness and a subtle tang. If you can’t find it, regular ketchup makes a good substitute. You can also mix ketchup with a splash of vinegar for a similar taste.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free version, choose tamari or coconut aminos. Both will maintain the savory umami flavor and work well in the marinade.
Brown Sugar: Feel free to use honey or agave syrup if you’re looking for a natural sweetener. Just adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grilled Chicken Skewers?
The key to great grilled chicken skewers is in the marinating and grilling techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your skewers turn out delicious every time:
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 3 hours, or overnight if possible. This enhances the flavors greatly!
- Soak your bamboo skewers in water for about 30 minutes before threading the chicken. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- When grilling, keep an eye on the skewers. Rotate them every few minutes to get an even char without burning.
- Baste the skewers with leftover marinade while grilling for extra moisture and flavor. Just ensure it’s cooked through to avoid raw chicken contamination.
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps them tender.
Easy Filipino Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup banana ketchup (or regular ketchup as a substitute)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Skewers:
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time. You’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 3 hours, or ideally overnight, for the best flavor. Grill time is around 10-14 minutes, giving you a total of at least 3 hours and 15 minutes from start to finish (longer if you marinate overnight).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, banana ketchup, minced garlic, grated onion, black pepper, and vegetable oil. Stir everything together until the sugar is mostly dissolved. This will be your flavorful marinade for the chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to make sure each piece is well-coated in the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 3 hours, but for best results, overnight is ideal!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures that your skewers will cook evenly and gain that delicious grilled flavor.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take your soaked bamboo skewers and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them. Make sure to pack them snugly but not too tight, leaving a little space for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers onto the hot grill. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Make sure to baste the skewers with any leftover marinade a couple of times while they cook, which will add extra moisture and flavor. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has a nice char on the outside.
6. Rest the Skewers:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, making it even more tender and juicy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Filipino barbecue chicken skewers hot! They’re perfect with a side of steamed rice or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy those juicy, sweet, and savory flavors!
FAQ for Easy Filipino Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. However, keep in mind that they may dry out faster while grilling. To keep them juicy, be sure to marinate them for the full time, and don’t overcook them on the grill!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 3 hours or up to 24 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be. Just be careful not to marinate for too long, especially with acidic marinades, as they can start to break down the chicken’s texture.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken skewers and marinate them a day in advance. Just cover them and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. This is especially handy for meal prepping or hosting a gathering!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or place them on a skillet over low heat until warmed through. You can also add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist while reheating.
