These Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is tossed in a sweet and sticky honey garlic sauce, making each bite mouthwatering.
Grilling them is a breeze, and they look great on the plate! I love serving them with rice or veggies. They always impress at barbecues, and everyone asks for seconds! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: The heart of the dish! Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and maximum flavor absorption. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work beautifully as well.
Honey: This gives the skewers a sweet touch. For a healthier choice, you can substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar. Just keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is key for that savory, umami flavor. If you’re gluten-free, go for tamari or coconut aminos. They provide a similar taste without gluten.
Fresh Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a vibrant kick! If you don’t have any, ground ginger can be used, but fresh is definitely best for this recipe.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a little heat! You can skip them if you prefer a milder flavor, or substitute with a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to taste.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for the Best Flavor?
Marinating chicken is essential for juicy, flavor-packed skewers. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine the marinade in a bowl with honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, oils, and seasonings.
- Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are well coated. Marinating helps the chicken soak up all those tasty flavors.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate. The longer you marinate (up to overnight), the better it will taste!
Remember, even just 30 minutes can help make a difference! Enjoy the delicious flavors that infuse your chicken!
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons crushed peanuts, for garnish
- 8-10 skewers (wooden skewers should be soaked in water for 30 minutes beforehand)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10-15 minutes of active cooking time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. If you can let it marinate for longer, even better! So, plan for about 1 hour in total to get this tasty meal ready.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, vegetable oil, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and mix everything until well combined. This will be the flavorful marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the bowl with the marinade. Toss the chicken around until all the pieces are coated well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can wait longer or even overnight, you’ll get even more flavor!
3. Prepare for Grilling:
Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While that’s heating up, take your skewers. If you’re using wooden ones, make sure they’ve been soaking in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Now, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to help them cook evenly.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally so that all sides get a nice char. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Yum!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Before serving, sprinkle your honey garlic chicken skewers with chopped fresh cilantro and crushed peanuts for a tasty crunch. You can also offer a dipping sauce, like sweet chili sauce or extra honey garlic sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious skewers!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken breast is recommended for its lean flavor, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just ensure the pieces are cut to a similar size for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you need a substitute for honey, agave nectar or maple syrup can work well in this marinade. Keep in mind that these will slightly change the flavor, but they’ll still provide a nice sweetness.
How Can I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. For the best results, you can also briefly grill them again to regain some char.
Can I Pre-marinate the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, marinating the chicken up to 24 hours ahead of time is a great idea! Just remember to cover it tightly in the fridge to prevent any contamination or flavor absorption from other foods.
