These easy honey garlic chicken skewers are a tasty treat! With tender chicken marinated in sweet honey and garlic, they are perfect for grilling or baking.
You can whip these up quickly, making them great for weeknight dinners or backyard parties. Pair them with a salad, and you’re set! Who knew skewers could be this delicious? 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their moisture and flavor. However, chicken breasts work just fine if you prefer leaner meat.
Honey: This ingredient gives your skewers their delightful sweetness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup can be used instead. Just remember that it will alter the flavor slightly!
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce is traditional, but you can easily substitute it with tamari for a gluten-free option. Coconut aminos also work well for a different flavor profile.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must for that rich flavor. If you’re in a rush, garlic powder can substitute—about 1 teaspoon for every clove used.
How Can You Ensure Your Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
To cook your chicken skewers to perfection, pay attention to the grilling temperature and timing. Here’s how to get it right:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken and lock in juices.
- Cook the skewers for about 4-5 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning; turn them gently.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). It’s the best way to check doneness!
And if you see flare-ups, just move the skewers to a cooler part of the grill or cut back on the heat. This way, the chicken can cook evenly without charring!
Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Roasted peanuts or chopped nuts
- Skewers: Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to marinate (1-2 hours is best for more flavor). Grilling will take around 10-15 minutes. So, overall, you’re looking at about 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, vinegar, olive or sesame oil, grated ginger (if using), red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing them well to ensure each piece is coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, let them marinate for 1 to 2 hours.
3. Skewer the Chicken:
Once marinated, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Take the marinated chicken pieces and thread them onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them as they cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice glaze. If flare-ups occur, move the skewers to a cooler part of the grill and baste with extra marinade if desired.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the skewers to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley and add roasted peanuts on top for a crunchy finish. Serve hot!
Enjoy your delicious sweet, savory, and garlicky chicken skewers that bring a delightful balance of flavors with every bite!
FAQ for Easy Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! These skewers can be made with shrimp, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly—shrimp will cook faster, while pork may need a bit longer.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance! Mix it up and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to add the chicken when you’re ready to cook to keep it fresh!
What Should I Do with Leftover Skewers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring they stay moist.
Can I Bake These Skewers Instead of Grilling?
Definitely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.
