Looking for an easy, light and summery dish? Try these Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs! Perfect for backyard barbecues, family dinners, or meal prep, this recipe combines tender chicken with sweet-and-savory teriyaki sauce. It’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh ingredients like pineapple and bell peppers, making it a vibrant addition to your meal rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish takes just 30 minutes from prep to plate, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger creates a deliciously unique taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile: Customize your kabobs with your favorite veggies or substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variation.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend barbecue or a casual family dinner, these kabobs fit right in.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh fruits, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wooden skewers
- Small saucepan
- Shallow bowl
- Grill or grill pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Wooden skewers: These are perfect for holding all your delicious ingredients together while grilling.
- Small saucepan: Ideal for preparing the teriyaki sauce without taking up too much space on the stove.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 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
How to Make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the soy sauce, water, sweet rice apple vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Gradually whisk this mixture into the simmering soy sauce mixture. Turn off the heat once combined 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 to coat all sides evenly. Cover and let it marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.
Step 4: Preheat Your Grill
While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium heat.
Step 5: Assemble the Kabobs
Prepare your skewers by alternating pieces of marinated chicken with pineapple chunks, bell pepper pieces, and red onion chunks until fully assembled.
Step 6: Grill the Kabobs
Place your kabobs on the grill over medium heat. Cook them for about 3–4 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 170°F (75°C). Turn them over and grill for an additional minute.
Step 7: Brush with Teriyaki Sauce
Using a brush, apply some of your reserved teriyaki sauce onto the kabobs. Grill them one more minute before turning them again to coat with sauce on both sides.
Step 8: Serve Hot
After cooking an extra minute on both sides with brushed sauce, transfer your grilled teriyaki chicken kabobs onto a serving platter. Enjoy them immediately!
How to Serve Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
On a Bed of Rice
- Steamed Jasmine Rice – The fragrant rice perfectly complements the teriyaki flavor.
- Coconut Rice – Adds a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the chicken and pineapple.
With a Fresh Salad
- Asian Slaw – A crunchy, tangy slaw adds freshness and texture.
- Cucumber Salad – Light and refreshing, it balances the richness of the kabobs.
In a Wrap
- Tortilla Wraps – Roll the kabobs in tortillas with lettuce and sauce for a handheld treat.
- Lettuce Cups – For a low-carb option, serve the kabobs in crisp lettuce leaves.
As Appetizers
- Skewers on Platters – Serve individual kabobs with dipping sauces for easy snacking.
- Mini Kabob Bites – Cut the pieces smaller for bite-sized appetizers at parties.
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 Properly – Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Soak Skewers – Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Preheat Your Grill – A hot grill ensures even cooking and beautiful grill marks on your kabobs.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken make a noticeable difference in taste.
- Check Temperature – Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 170°F for safety and tenderness.
- Brush with Sauce – Applying teriyaki sauce during grilling enhances flavor and adds a glossy finish.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs
Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this flavorful dish.
- Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers bring color and taste to your plate.
- Fried Rice – A classic choice that mixes well with teriyaki flavors; add peas, carrots, or eggs for variety.
- Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad provides a hearty side that contrasts nicely with the lightness of kabobs.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter is a summer favorite that pairs well with grilled meats.
- Miso Soup – This warm soup offers umami depth that complements the sweetness of teriyaki sauce.
- Edamame Beans – Lightly salted edamame is a nutritious finger food that adds protein to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoiding these will ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Skipping the marination: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavor. Always allow at least an hour for the chicken to soak up the teriyaki sauce.
- Using dry skewers: Not soaking wooden skewers can lead to them burning on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 1 hour before use.
- Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too many ingredients onto one skewer can prevent even cooking. Leave some space between each piece for proper heat circulation.
- Neglecting temperature control: Cooking at too high of a temperature can cause the outside to char before the chicken is fully cooked. Aim for medium heat and check internal temperatures with a meat thermometer.
- Not basting during grilling: Skipping the basting step with teriyaki sauce can result in dry kabobs. Brush with sauce multiple times throughout cooking for extra flavor and moisture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs
- Place cooled kabobs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kabobs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals until heated through.
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water and cover, heating for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs.
Can I use other meats for these kabobs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
How do I know when my chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 170°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Can I make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them as needed.
What vegetables work well with these kabobs?
Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms are great additions that complement the teriyaki flavor.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs offer a delightful blend of flavors that makes them perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences—feel free to add your favorite veggies or experiment with different marinades! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are the ultimate summer dish that effortlessly combines flavor and freshness. Ideal for barbecues, family dinners, or meal prep, these kabobs feature tender chicken marinated in a sweet-and-savory teriyaki sauce, complemented by juicy pineapple and colorful bell peppers. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights while being versatile enough to cater to different dietary preferences. You can customize your kabobs with various vegetables or even swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. Whether served on a bed of rice, in a wrap, or as appetizers, these kabobs are sure to impress guests and satisfy cravings alike.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (approximately four kabobs per serving) 1x
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups pineapple chunks
- 1 red onion
- 1 bell pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by combining soy sauce, water, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Thicken the marinade with cornstarch mixed with water; set aside.
- Marinate chicken in half the teriyaki sauce for at least one hour.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Assemble skewers with marinated chicken and vegetables.
- Grill kabobs for about 3–4 minutes per side until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 170°F (75°C).
- Brush with reserved teriyaki sauce during grilling for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 70mg