Save to Pinterest Tender chicken skewers marinated in a zesty ginger teriyaki sauce, grilled to perfection for a flavorful and juicy appetizer or main dish.
The first time I prepared these ginger teriyaki chicken skewers was for a summer cookout, and their sweetness balanced with fresh ginger made them a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 600 g (1.3 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) cubes
- Teriyaki Marinade: 80 ml (1/3 cup) soy sauce, 60 ml (1/4 cup) mirin (or substitute with dry sherry), 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated, 2 garlic cloves, minced, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Garnish (optional): 1 tbsp sesame seeds, 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- For Grilling: 8 bamboo or metal skewers (if bamboo, soaked in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
- Make Marinade:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper.
- Reserve for Basting:
- Keep 3 tablespoons of marinade in a small bowl for basting.
- Marinate Chicken:
- Place cubed chicken in zip-top bag or bowl. Pour marinade over. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare Grill:
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Thread Chicken:
- Skewer marinated chicken pieces, leaving space between each for even cooking.
- Grill Skewers:
- Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally and basting, until chicken is cooked and slightly charred.
- Finish and Serve:
- Transfer to platter, sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions if desired, and serve hot.
Save to Pinterest My family loves assembling these skewers together, making it a fun kitchen activity before dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these chicken skewers with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Dietary & Allergen Notes
This recipe contains soy and sesame. Double-check ingredient labels to meet dietary needs.
Nutrition Info
Each serving provides 270 calories, 8 g total fat, 16 g carbohydrates, and 30 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Grill these skewers fresh and serve hot for best flavor. Leftovers taste great cold in salads, making them versatile and delicious.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, both chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs remain juicier when grilled, but breasts provide a leaner option.
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 1 hour to develop depth of flavor. You can marinate up to 8 hours for stronger taste.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute in the marinade for a gluten-free version.
- → What tools are essential for preparation?
You will need skewers, mixing bowls, a whisk, grill or grill pan, and tongs for handling the chicken.
- → What are some good side dishes to serve?
Steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a crisp salad complement the flavors and balance the meal well.
- → How can I add extra heat?
Add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade for a subtle, spicy kick that pairs nicely with the ginger.