Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Looking for an easy, light and summery dish? Try these Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs! Bursting with flavor from the homemade teriyaki sauce, these kabobs are perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and colorful veggies makes this dish not only delicious but visually stunning as well. Plus, they are simple to prepare and fun to eat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The homemade teriyaki sauce infuses the chicken with a delectable sweetness that you can’t get from store-bought sauces.
• Versatile: Customize your kabobs with your favorite vegetables or even swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, these kabobs are a healthy choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Great for Entertaining: Impress your guests at barbecues or gatherings with this vibrant and tasty dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden skewers: They hold your ingredients together while grilling. Soaking them prevents burning on the grill.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for preparing the teriyaki sauce without taking up too much space on your stovetop.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining ingredients smoothly when making the teriyaki sauce.

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
• Olive oil (to prevent sticking)
• 12 wooden skewers soaked in water for 1-24 hours

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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 this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

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 soy sauce mix. Turn off the heat and set aside.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a shallow bowl. Pour half of the prepared teriyaki sauce over it. Turn to coat all sides thoroughly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight if possible.

Step 4: Assemble the Kabobs

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

Step 5: Grill the Kabobs

Place assembled kabobs on the grill. Cook for about 3–4 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 170°F (77°C). Turn kabobs over and cook for another minute.

Step 6: Brush with Sauce

Brush kabobs generously with remaining teriyaki sauce and cook for one additional minute. Turn once more to brush the opposite side with sauce before letting them cook for another minute.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer grilled kabobs to a serving platter. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your delicious Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs!

How to Serve Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the kabobs over a fluffy bed of jasmine or basmati rice for a hearty meal.
• The rice soaks up the delicious teriyaki sauce, adding flavor and texture.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair the kabobs with a light garden salad.
• Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the flavors.

In Tacos

• Create fun chicken taco wraps using soft tortillas.
• Fill them with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce.

As Appetizers

• Cut the kabobs into smaller pieces for bite-sized appetizers.
• Serve with toothpicks and a side of dipping sauce for easy snacking.

How to Perfect Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

To ensure your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the teriyaki sauce to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
• Soak Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Preheat Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the kabobs on it. This helps achieve nice grill marks and keeps the chicken juicy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables and herbs. They enhance both flavor and presentation.
• Check Internal Temperature: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 170°F for safety and perfect doneness.
• Baste Frequently: Brush kabobs with additional teriyaki sauce while grilling. This adds extra flavor and keeps them moist.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Complement your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs with these delicious side dishes that pair well with their bold flavors.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a crunchy texture and vibrant color to your plate.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for a comforting side that balances the teriyaki taste.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw brings a cool crunch that contrasts nicely with warm kabobs.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with vegetables offers a healthy option full of nutrients.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds sweetness and is perfect for summer barbecues alongside kabobs.
6. Grilled Zucchini: Marinated grilled zucchini provides another smoky flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs can be simple, but common mistakes can affect the end result. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Ignoring Marination Time: Not marinating the chicken for long enough can lead to bland kabobs. Aim for at least one hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

• Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too many ingredients onto the skewers makes it hard for them to cook evenly. Leave space between each piece of chicken and veggies for better heat circulation.

• Skipping the Soaking Step: Using dry wooden skewers can cause them to catch fire on the grill. Always soak your skewers in water for 1-24 hours before grilling.

• Not Preheating the Grill: Cooking on a cold grill can result in uneven cooking and sticking. Always preheat your grill to medium heat before placing the kabobs on it.

• Using Too Much Sauce Too Early: Brushing on all the sauce at once can lead to burning. Apply sauce during the last minute of cooking for a delicious glaze without charred bits.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled teriyaki chicken kabobs in an airtight container.
• They will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Use parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

• Wrap individual kabobs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kabobs on a baking sheet and warm for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

• Microwave: Arrange kabobs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to prevent overcooking.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or oil. Cook kabobs for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs?

Serving these kabobs with rice or a fresh salad enhances their flavor and makes for a well-rounded meal.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu while keeping the same marinade for varied flavors.

How do I know when my kabobs are done?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 170°F (77°C). A meat thermometer is helpful to ensure they are fully cooked.

Can I make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and marinate them a day in advance, making it easy to grill them just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite vegetables or swap out proteins. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. Give it a try, and enjoy the burst of flavors!