Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s sweet, savory, and perfect for any occasion, Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are the way to go. These skewers are marinated in a flavorful combination of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and seasonings, then grilled to perfection for a tender, juicy bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or looking for an appetizer that will impress your guests, this recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also creates a beautiful caramelized glaze when cooked, making these skewers irresistible. Serve them with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or even on their own for a delightful treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Prepare: With a simple marinade and a quick grilling process, these skewers come together in no time.
2. Packed with Flavor: The honey garlic marinade gives the chicken a balance of sweetness and savory goodness.
3. Versatile: You can cook these skewers on a grill, stovetop, or even in the oven.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special gathering, these skewers are a hit.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs or breasts into uniform bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches. This ensures even cooking.
2. Set Aside: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, olive oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the marinade and adjust the balance of flavors if needed, adding more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

1. Pour the Marinade: Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated.
2. Refrigerate: Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours. For maximum flavor, marinate overnight.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

1. Thread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
2. Reserve Marinade: If desired, set aside the leftover marinade for basting or as a sauce (ensure it’s boiled for safety).

Step 5: Cook the Skewers

Option 1: Grill Method

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F).
2. Oil the Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Cook the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char.
4. Baste: During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the skewers with the reserved marinade for extra flavor.

Option 2: Stovetop Method

1. Heat a Grill Pan: Place a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and lightly oil the surface.
2. Cook the Skewers: Cook the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.

Option 3: Oven Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Bake the Skewers: Place the skewers on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for a charred effect.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Add Garnishes: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped parsley or cilantro over the skewers for a fresh touch.
2. Serve with Sides: Pair with steamed rice, a crisp salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Add lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze.

Tips for Success

1. Use Chicken Thighs for Juiciness: While chicken breasts work well, thighs are more forgiving and remain tender even if slightly overcooked.
2. Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill or in the oven.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leave a small gap between chicken pieces to ensure even cooking and allow the heat to circulate.
4. Preheat Properly: Always preheat your grill, pan, or oven to achieve that perfect caramelization and char.
5. Boil Leftover Marinade: If you want to use the leftover marinade as a sauce or glaze, bring it to a boil first to kill any bacteria from the raw chicken.

Variations

1. Vegetable Additions: Add bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or pineapple chunks to the skewers for extra flavor and color.
2. Spicy Honey Garlic Skewers: Increase the red pepper flakes or add Sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
3. Herbed Skewers: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist.
4. Teriyaki Style: Substitute some of the honey with brown sugar and add a splash of mirin for a teriyaki-inspired flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other proteins for this recipe?

Absolutely! This marinade works well with shrimp, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve them as an appetizer with dipping sauces like garlic aioli or sweet chili sauce.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. The skewers can also be assembled and stored in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Conclusion

This Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers Recipe is an effortless way to bring bold flavors to your table. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or cooking in your kitchen, these skewers deliver tender, juicy chicken coated in a sticky, savory-sweet glaze. Easy to customize and perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try, and watch how quickly they disappear from the plate!

Yield: 4

Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers Recipe

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If you're looking for a dish that’s sweet, savory, and perfect for any occasion, Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are the way to go. These skewers are marinated in a flavorful combination of honey, garlic, soy sauce, and seasonings, then grilled to perfection for a tender, juicy bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or looking for an appetizer that will impress your guests, this recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Marinating Time 30 minutes

Total Time 1 hour

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade
   In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
   
2. Marinate the Chicken
   Place the cubed chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a large bowl.
   Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
   Seal the bag (or cover the bowl) and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for a more intense flavor.
   
3. Soak the Skewers (if using wooden ones)
   While the chicken marinates, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
   
4. Assemble the Skewers
   Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
   Reserve any leftover marinade for basting.
   
5. Cook the Skewers
   Grill Method:
   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
   Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char. Brush with reserved marinade during grilling for extra flavor.
   Oven Method:
   Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
   Place the skewers on the prepared sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, turning once and basting with reserved marinade. Finish with a quick broil for 1-2 minutes for a charred effect.
   Stovetop Method:
   Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil it.
   Cook the skewers for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked.
   
6. Garnish and Serve
   Remove the skewers from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
   Serve immediately with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Notes

Marinade Variation: Add a teaspoon of sesame oil for a nutty depth of flavor.

Vegetables: For a complete skewer meal, alternate the chicken pieces with chunks of bell peppers, onions, and pineapple on the skewers.