Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Looking for an easy, light, and summery dish? Try these Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs! Perfect for backyard barbecues, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal, these kabobs combine juicy chicken with sweet pineapple and colorful vegetables. The homemade teriyaki sauce adds a delicious glaze that elevates this dish to a new level of flavor. Whether you’re grilling for friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these kabobs are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful: The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.
• Versatile: Customize your kabobs by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping chicken for shrimp or tofu.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and vitamins from the veggies, these kabobs are a wholesome choice.
• Fun Presentation: Serving food on skewers makes meals more enjoyable and visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden skewers
• Grill
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Shallow bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden skewers: Provide a safe way to hold all your ingredients together while grilling.
• Grill: Gives that perfect charred flavor to the chicken and vegetables.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for warming up the teriyaki sauce without burning it.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly when preparing the sauce.

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Marinade

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons sweet rice apple vinegar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Kabobs

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 cups pineapple chunks
• 1 red onion (cut into chunks)
• kosher salt and fresh ground pepper
• olive oil (to prevent sticking)
• 12 wooden skewers soaked in water for 1–24 hours
• 1 bell pepper (cut into chunks)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the soy sauce, water, rice apple vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat. Simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 2: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water. Slowly incorporate this mixture into your sauce while stirring. Once combined, remove it from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the cut chicken in a shallow bowl. Pour half of the teriyaki sauce over it, turning to coat evenly. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour or overnight for best results.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium heat.

Step 5: Assemble the Kabobs

Thread pieces of marinated chicken onto soaked wooden skewers, alternating with pineapple chunks, bell peppers, and onion pieces.

Step 6: Grill the Kabobs

Place assembled kabobs on the grill. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until chicken’s internal temperature reaches 170°F. Flip them over and grill for an additional minute.

Step 7: Brush with Sauce

Using a brush, apply some remaining teriyaki sauce on top of kabobs. Grill for one more minute before flipping again to coat the other side.

Step 8: Serve

Once cooked through, transfer kabobs onto a serving platter. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs immediately!

How to Serve Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are versatile and perfect for any gathering. They can be served in various ways to enhance the dining experience, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively backyard barbecue.

Serve with Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, it pairs beautifully with the sweet teriyaki sauce.
• Fried Rice: Add vegetables and an egg for a hearty side that complements the kabobs well.

Tossed Salad

• Asian Slaw: A crisp salad with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing adds crunch and freshness.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed greens provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the kabobs.

Dipping Sauces

• Extra Teriyaki Sauce: Serve additional sauce for dipping to enhance the flavor experience.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds a spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the teriyaki.

How to Perfect Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Creating perfect Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs takes some attention to detail but is well worth it. Here are some tips to ensure your kabobs turn out delicious every time.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just one hour.
• Soak Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Preheat Grill Properly: Make sure your grill is hot enough before adding kabobs; this helps achieve nice grill marks.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger give your teriyaki sauce a vibrant taste.
• Avoid Overcrowding Skewers: Leave space between ingredients for even cooking and better flavor absorption.
• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 170°F for safety.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs enhances the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options that complement the flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes add comfort and richness alongside the kabobs.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, corn makes a delightful addition to any barbecue spread.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil balances the meal nicely.
4. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Colorful vegetables stir-fried in soy sauce bring an Asian flair that matches well.
5. Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with veggies provides a healthy side that’s also filling.
6. Roasted Broccoli: Crispy-tender broccoli tossed with olive oil offers a nutritious contrast to the kabobs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating the chicken for just a short time can lead to bland flavor. Aim for at least one hour or overnight for a deep, rich taste.
• Skipping the soaking of skewers: If you don’t soak wooden skewers, they may burn on the grill. Soak them in water for 1-24 hours before use to prevent this.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Stuffing too much onto each skewer can prevent even cooking. Leave some space between pieces for proper heat circulation.
• Ignoring temperature checks: Not checking the chicken’s internal temperature can lead to undercooked meat. Ensure it reaches 170°F for safe eating.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Low-quality soy sauce or vinegar can affect flavor. Always choose fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best dish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

• Place cooled kabobs in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure you remove as much air as possible.

Reheating Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place kabobs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot, turning halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning frequently until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sides pair well with Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs?

Grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad complement these kabobs perfectly, enhancing their flavors and providing balance.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef while using the same marinade for delicious variations.

How do I make the teriyaki sauce thicker?

For thicker teriyaki sauce, add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water during cooking. This will give it a nice glaze.

Can I prepare Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prep the veggies beforehand. Assemble and grill when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs offer a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that are perfect for summer grilling. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Try these kabobs today, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to impress!