These Easy Filipino Barbecue Chicken Skewers are tasty and fun! Juicy chicken pieces soak in a flavorful marinade, then get grilled until they’re perfectly smoky.
They’re simple to whip up and great for any gathering. I love serving them with rice or just munching on them straight from the grill. Who doesn’t love a good skewer? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs gives you juicy, flavorful skewers. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but they may be drier. Keep in mind to adjust the grilling time.
Banana Ketchup: This sweet, tangy Filipino condiment is a must for authentic flavor. If you can’t find it, regular ketchup is a suitable substitute, though it will change the taste slightly.
Pineapple Juice: It’s optional but adds a nice sweetness and helps tenderize the chicken. If you want a more tropical taste, you can also use mango juice or omit it entirely.
Vinegar: White vinegar works great, but cane vinegar or apple cider vinegar can also be used for a different kick. This ingredient helps balance the sweetness of the ketchup and sugar.
How Do I Marinate Chicken Properly?
Marinating is key to infusing flavor into the chicken. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Mix all marinade ingredients until the sugar is dissolved for a smooth blend.
- Make sure the chicken is fully coated in the marinade. Consider using a zip-top bag for easy mixing.
- Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best for deeper flavors!
- Just before grilling, shake off excess marinade to avoid flare-ups on the grill.
Easy Filipino Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup banana ketchup (or regular ketchup if unavailable)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp pineapple juice (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tbsp vinegar (white or cane vinegar)
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
For Skewering:
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of active preparation time, plus a marinating time of at least 2 hours (or overnight, if you can). Grilling the skewers takes about 10-15 minutes. In total, you’re looking at a little over 2 hours from start to finish, but most of that is waiting for the chicken to marinate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, banana ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, chopped onion, pineapple juice (if using), vinegar, black pepper, and salt. Mix it all together until the sugar is mostly dissolved and you have a nice, even marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate. Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours; overnight is even better if you have the time! This step is crucial for flavor.
3. Grill the Skewers:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat. Take the soaked bamboo skewers and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them. Leave small gaps between the pieces to allow for even cooking. This helps the heat circulate.
4. Cooking Time:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Turn them occasionally and baste with any leftover marinade to enhance the flavor and get that beautiful caramel glaze. Make sure the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. Serve the skewers hot with steamed rice or your favorite sides, and enjoy!
Happy grilling! Enjoy your delicious Filipino barbecue chicken skewers!
FAQ for Easy Filipino Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes! You can substitute chicken breasts, but keep in mind they tend to be drier than thighs. To prevent drying out, marinate longer and be careful not to overcook them on the grill.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and keep it in the refrigerator. Just thread the chicken onto the skewers and grill when you’re ready to eat—super convenient!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring they don’t dry out.
What’s a Good Side Dish to Serve with These Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with steamed rice or a fresh side salad. You can also serve them with grilled vegetables or a dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce for an extra kick!
