Filipino Chicken Skewers

Filipino Chicken Skewers are a delightful treat that brings bold flavors and juicy chicken to your table. Perfect for barbecues, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner, these skewers are easy to make and sure to impress. The unique combination of soy sauce, banana ketchup, and garlic creates a savory taste that sets this dish apart from traditional kebabs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have flavorful skewers ready in no time.
• Savory Flavor: The blend of soy sauce and banana ketchup gives the chicken a rich, delicious taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Filipino Chicken Skewers are perfect for parties or backyard barbecues; everyone will love them!
• Healthy Option: Made with lean chicken breasts and minimal oil, these skewers fit well into healthy eating plans.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even in wraps for a fun twist.

Tools and Preparation

To create delicious Filipino Chicken Skewers, having the right tools is essential. They help streamline the cooking process and ensure consistent results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bamboo skewers
• Grill (outdoor or indoor)
• Mixing bowl
• Marinade brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Bamboo skewers: Soaking them prevents burning during grilling.
• Grill: Provides perfect charring and flavor that enhances the chicken’s taste.
• Mixing bowl: Ensures all ingredients are well combined for even marination.
• Marinade brush: Helps apply oil evenly to the skewers while grilling.

Ingredients

Filipino Chicken Skewers – juicy, moist and savory chicken kebab seasoned Filipino-style with soy sauce, banana ketchup and garlic. Absolutely delicious and a crowd pleaser!

• 12 oz (350g) boneless and skinless chicken breasts (cut into cubes)
• 3/4 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon banana ketchup
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 inch (2.5cm) ginger (minced)
• 1 pinch salt
• 3 dashes ground black pepper
• 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons Pompeian Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Filipino Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Soak the Bamboo Skewers

Soak the bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the chicken cubes with soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, banana ketchup, minced garlic, minced ginger, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
2. Stir well to ensure each piece of chicken is coated evenly.
3. Let it marinate for 30 minutes for maximum flavor absorption.

Step 3: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers

Thread a few pieces of marinated chicken onto each bamboo skewer. Repeat until all chicken cubes are used.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush Pompeian Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil onto each skewer before placing them on the grill.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill:
1. Grill one side until slightly charred.
2. Flip them over and cook until both sides are golden brown.
3. Serve immediately while hot for optimal flavor.

Enjoy your flavorful Filipino Chicken Skewers at your next meal!

How to Serve Filipino Chicken Skewers

Filipino Chicken Skewers are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the skewers as a main attraction at your barbecues or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with rice or noodles.

In a Wrap

• Use flatbreads or tortillas to wrap the skewers along with fresh veggies and sauces for a delicious handheld meal.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces like spicy vinegar, sweet chili sauce, or extra banana ketchup for added flavor.

On Salad

• Slice the grilled chicken skewers and place them on top of a fresh salad for a light and healthy meal option.

As Appetizers

• Cut the skewers into smaller pieces and serve them as appetizers at parties, paired with toothpicks for easy eating.

How to Perfect Filipino Chicken Skewers

Perfecting your Filipino Chicken Skewers can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh chicken and herbs enhance the overall taste of your skewers.
• Marinate longer – For more flavor, marinate the chicken for at least an hour or overnight in the fridge.
• Pre-soak bamboo skewers – Soaking prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring your skewers cook evenly.
• Grill at medium-high heat – This allows for a nice char while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
• Baste while grilling – Brushing with olive oil during grilling adds moisture and depth of flavor to the chicken.
• Let rest before serving – Allowing the skewers to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain juices.

Best Side Dishes for Filipino Chicken Skewers

Pairing side dishes with your Filipino Chicken Skewers can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice – A classic pairing that soaks up the savory flavors of the skewers.
2. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition.
3. Coconut Rice – The sweetness of coconut rice complements the savory notes of the chicken.
4. Pancit (Noodle Dish) – This traditional dish adds an Asian twist and is often served at celebrations.
5. Coleslaw – A refreshing crunch from coleslaw balances out the richness of grilled chicken.
6. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds an enjoyable contrast and is perfect for outdoor gatherings.
7. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad provides comfort alongside your flavorful skewers.
8. Fresh Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad can cleanse your palate after indulging in savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Filipino Chicken Skewers, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to keep in mind:

• Over-marinating the chicken: While marinating is essential for flavor, leaving the chicken in the marinade for too long can make it mushy. Aim for 30 minutes for optimal taste and texture.

• Using dry skewers: If you skip soaking bamboo skewers, they can catch fire on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading your chicken.

• Not preheating the grill: Cooking on a cold grill can lead to uneven cooking and lack of char. Always preheat your grill before adding the skewers to ensure juicy, well-cooked chicken.

• Threading too much chicken: Overloading skewers can prevent even cooking. Use just a few pieces per skewer, allowing heat to circulate around each piece.

• Skipping oil during grilling: Forgetting to brush olive oil on your skewers can lead to sticking and dryness. Ensure you apply oil while grilling for added moisture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep in an airtight container: Store leftover Filipino Chicken Skewers in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
• Use within 3 days: For best quality, consume leftovers within three days of cooking.

Freezing Filipino Chicken Skewers

• Wrap tightly: If freezing, wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store for up to 3 months: Properly stored, these skewers will maintain quality for about three months in the freezer.

Reheating Filipino Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place the skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in short bursts (30 seconds) until warmed through.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook the skewers for about 5 minutes, turning them occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best marinade for Filipino Chicken Skewers?

The best marinade combines soy sauce, banana ketchup, garlic, ginger, and lemon juice. This blend enhances the chicken’s natural flavors while keeping it moist.

Can I use other meats for Filipino Chicken Skewers?

Yes! You can use pork or beef as alternatives. Just adjust the marinating time according to the meat type for optimal results.

How do I know when my Filipino Chicken Skewers are done?

Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The meat should be no longer pink inside and juices should run clear.

Can I customize my Filipino Chicken Skewers?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions between chicken pieces on the skewers for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

These Filipino Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner, they can be customized with various marinades or veggies based on your preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Filipino cuisine right at home!