Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Looking for an easy, light and summery dish? Try these Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs! This delightful recipe combines juicy chicken with sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, making it perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or meal prep. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and pineapple add both flavor and eye appeal, ensuring your meal is as delicious as it is attractive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, these kabobs are a breeze to make, allowing you to enjoy your day without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Flavor Explosion: The homemade teriyaki sauce adds a rich sweetness that perfectly complements the grilled chicken and veggies.
  • Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or even use shrimp instead of chicken—this recipe is incredibly versatile!
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a special dinner, these kabobs will impress your guests and family alike.
  • Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is a smart choice for health-conscious eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

  • Wooden skewers: These are essential for assembling your kabobs. Soaking them prevents burning on the grill.
  • Small saucepan: Perfect for preparing the teriyaki sauce. Its compact size allows for quick heating.
  • Whisk: Ideal for mixing sauces smoothly without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Sauce

  • 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)
  • 1 bell pepper (cut into chunks)
  • Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper (to taste)
  • Olive oil (to prevent sticking)
  • 12 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 1-24 hours)

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
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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 and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 2: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Slowly whisk this mixture into the simmering teriyaki sauce. Turn off the heat and set aside.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a shallow bowl. Pour half of the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and turn it to coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.

Step 4: Assemble the Kabobs

Preheat your grill on medium heat. Thread alternating pieces of marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, bell pepper, and onion onto soaked wooden skewers.

Step 5: Grill the Kabobs

Place kabobs on the grill over medium heat. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 170°F (77°C). Turn kabobs over and cook for an additional minute.

Step 6: Brush with Sauce

Brush kabobs generously with remaining teriyaki sauce while grilling. Cook for one more minute on each side after brushing.

Step 7: Serve

Once cooked through, transfer kabobs to a serving platter. Serve immediately while hot!

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs!

How to Serve Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight meal, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

On Rice

  • Steamed Jasmine Rice: Serve the kabobs over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice for a fragrant and filling meal.
  • Fried Rice: Pair with vegetable fried rice to add texture and flavor.

With Fresh Salad

  • Asian Slaw: A crunchy cabbage slaw dressed in sesame oil complements the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce.
  • Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, cucumber salad adds a cool contrast to the warm kabobs.

In Wraps

  • Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap around the kabobs for a fun, low-carb option. Add some spicy mayo for an extra kick.
  • Tortilla Wraps: Roll the chicken and veggies in tortillas with some extra sauce for a delicious handheld meal.

As Appetizers

  • Skewers on Toothpicks: Cut the kabobs into smaller pieces and serve them as bite-sized appetizers at parties.
  • With Dipping Sauces: Offer additional teriyaki sauce or a spicy garlic dipping sauce for guests to enjoy.

How to Perfect Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

To get the most out of your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs, follow these simple tips that will enhance flavor and ensure perfect grilling.

  • Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavor it absorbs. Aim for at least one hour or overnight if possible.
  • Preheat Your Grill: Always start with a hot grill to achieve nice grill marks and prevent sticking.
  • Use Soaked Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers in water prevents them from burning on the grill.
  • Cut Uniform Pieces: Ensure chicken and vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
  • Baste During Cooking: Brush on extra teriyaki sauce while grilling to keep the kabobs moist and flavorful.
  • Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 170°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Grilled

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some ideal sides that complement this dish perfectly.

  1. Grilled Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus on the grill alongside your kabobs for added flavor.
  2. White Rice: A simple side of white rice soaks up any extra teriyaki sauce left on your plate.
  3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs adds nutrition and texture to your meal.
  4. Miso Soup: This warm soup acts as a comforting addition that pairs well with the flavors of teriyaki.
  5. Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offers a protein-packed snack that balances out the sweetness of the kabobs.
  6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with spices make for a hearty side that everyone loves.
  7. Sushi Rolls: For an adventurous twist, serve sushi rolls as an appetizer or side dish alongside your main course.
  8. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a sweet contrast that enhances the overall dining experience.

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.

  • Ignoring marination time: Skipping the marination process can lead to bland chicken. Always allow at least an hour for the flavors to penetrate.

  • Not soaking skewers: If you use wooden skewers without soaking, they can burn on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 1 hour before grilling.

  • Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too many ingredients onto one skewer can result in uneven cooking. Make sure to leave some space between each piece.

  • Skipping the internal temperature check: Not checking that your chicken reaches 170°F can lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

  • Neglecting to brush with sauce: Failing to brush kabobs with teriyaki sauce while grilling may leave them dry. Baste several times during cooking for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store grilled kabobs in an airtight container.
  • They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

  • To freeze, wrap the kabobs tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
  • They can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place kabobs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

  • Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals of 1 minute until hot.

  • Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil and warm the kabobs for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to prevent sticking.

Grilled

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs spicy?

You can add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños into your marinade or directly on the kabobs before grilling for an extra kick.

Can I use different vegetables in my Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in veggies like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms based on your preferences.

What should I serve with Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs?

These kabobs pair well with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I know when my Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are done?

Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 170°F using a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. You can swap out proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand. Whether it’s a summer BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner, these kabobs are sure to impress! Give them a try and enjoy your flavorful creation!

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Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

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Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs offer a delightful combination of juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and sweet-savory teriyaki sauce. Perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners, these kabobs are not only visually appealing but also customizable to suit your taste. With quick preparation and grilling times, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether served over rice or wrapped in lettuce, these kabobs promise to impress everyone at your table.

  • Author: Kiara
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups pineapple chunks
  • 1 red onion
  • 1 bell pepper
  • 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
  • Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper (to taste)
  • Olive oil (to prevent sticking)
  • 12 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 124 hours)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the teriyaki sauce by heating soy sauce, water, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan until thickened.
  2. Marinate chicken pieces in half the teriyaki sauce for at least one hour.
  3. Preheat the grill and assemble kabobs with marinated chicken and vegetables on soaked skewers.
  4. Grill kabobs for 3-4 minutes per side until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 170°F.
  5. Brush with remaining teriyaki sauce while cooking for added flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 kabobs (approximately 200g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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