Go Back
Teriyaki chicken has earned its place as a beloved dish across various cuisines, celebrated for its rich flavors and appealing presentation. This dish, which originated from Japanese culinary traditions, has evolved to capture the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts around the globe. Its signature blend of sweet, savory, and umami flavors makes it an irresistible option for weeknight dinners, barbecues, and festive gatherings alike.

Sweet Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

If you're looking for a delicious meal that's easy to prepare, try these Sweet Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Skewers! This recipe combines tender, marinated chicken thigh pieces and juicy pineapple, creating an irresistible blend of sweet and savory flavors. Grilled to perfection, these skewers are perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or entertaining guests. Get ready to impress everyone with this delightful dish and enjoy the unique flavors of homemade teriyaki!

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup honey

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 tablespoons mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon cornstarch, dissolved in 1 tablespoon water

For Serving:

Cooking oil (for grilling)

Sesame seeds (for garnishing)

Chopped green onions (for garnishing)

Pineapple chunks (optional, for skewering and grilling)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade:

    In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, mirin, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and the cornstarch-water mixture until smooth and well combined.

      Marinate the Chicken:

        Add the cubed chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to a zip-top bag. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

          Soak Skewers:

            If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning. Metal skewers do not require this step.

              Preheat the Grill:

                Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grill grates with cooking oil to reduce sticking and facilitate easy flipping.

                  Assemble the Skewers:

                    Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. For an added flavor dimension, alternate the chicken with pineapple chunks to introduce a sweet and tangy contrast.

                      Grill the Skewers:

                        Place the assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for approximately 5-6 minutes on each side, brushing with any remaining marinade, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and exhibits a beautiful char. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

                          Finish and Serve:

                            Once finished grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish generously with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy with steamed rice or atop a vibrant salad for a fresh meal.

                              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour 20 minutes | 4 servings

                                Presentation Tips: Serve the skewers on a wooden board or stylish platter, with extra pineapple chunks and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an eye-catching display.