Korean Chicken Skewers are a tasty treat! Tender chicken pieces are marinated in a sweet and spicy sauce, then grilled to perfection on skewers. Yummy and fun to eat!
I love serving these at parties—they always disappear fast. Plus, the smell of them cooking is so tempting, you might want to keep some for yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breast for an easy-to-eat option. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce gives a great umami flavor. For a gluten-free alternative, try tamari or coconut aminos. Adjust the quantity slightly, as tamari can be saltier.
Gochujang: This Korean chili paste adds depth and heat. If you can’t find it, use sriracha or a mix of miso paste with cayenne pepper for some spiciness.
Honey: Honey balances the spice in the marinade. Maple syrup or agave nectar are suitable alternatives if you’re avoiding honey or want a vegan substitute.
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, try using olive oil, although the flavor will vary a bit. Toasted sesame oil is an excellent option if you can find it!
How Do You Get Juicy Chicken on Skewers?
The key to juicy chicken lies in marinating and cooking it correctly. Marination allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, making it more tender. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is better!
- Mix all marinade ingredients well before adding chicken.
- Ensure each piece is coated, as this will help keep moisture inside while grilling.
- When grilling, keep the heat at medium-high, and avoid overcooking—check that it reaches 165°F internally.
Turning the skewers occasionally will help achieve even cooking and those beautiful grill marks. Enjoy your tasty and tender chicken skewers!
How to Make Korean Chicken Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to grill. You’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting it sit overnight will really boost the flavor. All in all, you can have delicious Korean chicken skewers in around an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by adding the soy sauce, gochujang, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green onions into a mixing bowl. Whisk it all together until it’s well combined. This flavorful mix will be your chicken’s best friend!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your cubed chicken and add it to the marinade. Mix everything well to ensure all the chicken pieces are coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. It’s best to let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you’re not in a hurry, letting it sit overnight is even better!
3. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This temperature is perfect for getting those beautiful grill marks on your chicken!
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Now it’s time to thread the marinated chicken onto your skewers. Make sure to leave some space between each piece so they cook evenly. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and develop that nice grilled look. If you have any marinade left, brush it on the skewers while they cook for extra flavor!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Sprinkle them with sesame seeds and any extra chopped green onions for a nice touch. Serve your hot skewers with your favorite dipping sauce, like a spicy sauce or even some extra gochujang. Enjoy!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized cubes for even cooking. You may need to adjust the grilling time slightly, as thighs can take a little longer than breasts.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, try to marinate it overnight. Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as the acid in the marinade can make the chicken mushy if left too long!
What if I Don’t Have Gochujang?
No worries! If you can’t find gochujang, you can use sriracha or another chili paste as a substitute. Keep in mind that sriracha is a bit sweeter and less spicy, so adjust the quantity to suit your taste. You can also mix in a little miso paste to add depth!
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes until heated through. If they get a bit dry, a splash of water or additional marinade can help revive them.
