These teriyaki chicken skewers are packed with flavor and perfect for a fun meal! Just marinate the chicken in a sweet and tangy sauce, then grill it to juicy perfection.
I love how easy these skewers are to make! They’re great for summer BBQs or a cozy dinner. Plus, who can resist that irresistible glaze? Get ready for happy taste buds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for skewers. They cook quickly and stay moist. If you want to try something different, chicken thighs are flavorful and a bit juicier, but they may take a little longer to cook.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple brings a bright, juicy flavor to the dish. Canned pineapple chunks are a great shortcut and work just as well, but opt for the ones packed in juice for the best taste.
Bell Pepper: I love using red bell peppers for their sweetness, but green peppers offer a nice crunch. Feel free to swap with zucchini or cherry tomatoes if you want different textures and flavors.
Teriyaki Sauce: You can buy grocery store teriyaki sauce, but making your own is easy and delicious. Just mix soy sauce, honey, and a bit of ginger! If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free soy sauce or a tamari alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating your chicken is key to flavor and moisture. Here’s how to do it right:
- In a bowl, combine all marinade ingredients until well mixed.
- Add chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate.
- Marinating for at least 30 minutes is great, but overnight works wonders for deeper flavor.
Remember, the longer you marinate, the tastier the chicken will be, but don’t go over 24 hours to avoid any mushy texture.
What’s the Best Way to Assemble Skewers?
Assembling skewers can be fun! Here’s a quick guide:
- Start by soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Begin with a piece of chicken, then alternate with pineapple and bell pepper to add variety and color.
- Leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
This method not only looks appealing but also allows the flavors to mesh beautifully as they cook!
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1 bell pepper (green or red), cut into chunks
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an extra 30 minutes to 1 hour for marinating the chicken. If you have the time, marinating overnight will give it even more flavor! The cooking time on the grill or in the oven is around 15-20 minutes. So overall, plan for about 45 minutes to 1 hour for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and black pepper. Stir everything together really well, so the sugar dissolves and the ingredients mix evenly.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to your marinade. Make sure all the chicken pieces are completely covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For a more intense flavor, you can marinate it overnight!
3. Assemble the Skewers:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Start threading the chicken, pineapple chunks, and bell pepper pieces onto the skewers. Alternate between chicken and veggies for a fun mix of flavors!
4. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill or in the oven. Grill or bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. The chicken should be cooked through and have those beautiful grill marks.
5. Baste with Marinade:
If you like, use a brush to apply some additional marinade on the skewers while they cook. It will add even more delicious flavor!
6. Serve:
Once done, take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve your tasty skewers over a bed of rice, and drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce if you’re in the mood. Enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can swap chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu. Just remember that cooking times will vary: shrimp typically takes 3-5 minutes, beef may require longer depending on thickness, and tofu should be pre-pressed to remove excess moisture for better texture.
What Can I Substitute for Pineapple?
If you’re not a fan of pineapple, you can use other fruits like peaches or mangoes. These fruits should also be in chunks to hold up on the skewers. If you prefer veggies, zucchini or cherry tomatoes make great alternatives!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat on a skillet over medium heat.
What Can I Serve With Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
These skewers go great with jasmine rice, fried rice, or a vibrant salad. For a more complete meal, consider adding steamed veggies like broccoli or snap peas for some crunch and color!
