Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Looking for an easy, light and summery dish? Try these Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs! Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal, these kabobs are not only delicious but also colorful and appealing. The combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and vibrant veggies creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. With a simple marinade that packs a punch of flavor, you’ll find this dish to be a standout at any gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these kabobs ready for grilling in no time.
• Flavorful Marinade: The homemade teriyaki sauce adds a bold taste that enhances every bite of chicken and veggies.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the chicken and vitamins from the vegetables, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the marinade to suit your tastes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a summer barbecue, these kabobs are sure to impress!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden skewers: These allow you to easily assemble your kabobs while adding a rustic touch. Make sure to soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning on the grill.
• Small saucepan: This is essential for preparing your flavorful teriyaki sauce. It ensures even heating and mixing of ingredients.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly, especially when adding cornstarch to thicken your sauce.

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

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. Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Gradually add this mixture into the soy sauce mixture while stirring continuously. Turn off the heat and set aside.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the bite-sized chicken pieces in a shallow bowl. Pour half of the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and turn it to ensure all pieces are well-coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 4: Assemble Your Kabobs

Preheat your grill to medium heat. While it’s heating up, assemble your kabobs by alternating pieces of marinated chicken with pineapple chunks, bell pepper chunks, and onion chunks on each skewer.

Step 5: Grill the Kabobs

Once your grill is ready, place the kabobs on it. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on one side until they reach an internal temperature of 170°F (77°C). Flip them over and cook for another minute.

Step 6: Brush with Sauce

Brush each kabob generously with remaining teriyaki sauce. Cook for an additional minute on that side before turning them again to brush with sauce once more.

Step 7: Final Cooking Stage

Allow them to cook for another minute before transferring them onto 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 a flavorful and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. To enhance your dining experience, consider these serving suggestions that pair perfectly with the kabobs.

With Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, floral notes of jasmine rice complement the sweet teriyaki sauce beautifully.
• Fried Rice: Add some veggies and eggs for a delicious twist on traditional fried rice that pairs well with the kabobs.

With Salad

• Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the warm kabobs.
• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with rice vinegar provides a cool balance to the savory flavors.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Serve the kabobs in crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb option that’s fun to eat.
• Tortilla Wraps: Use soft tortillas to create delicious wraps filled with kabobs and your favorite toppings.

How to Perfect Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

To ensure your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips. They will help you enhance flavor and achieve great texture.

• Marinate Thoroughly: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour or overnight for deeper flavor absorption.
• Soak Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill and ensures they hold your ingredients together.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken for the best taste.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the kabobs; it helps achieve a nice sear and prevents sticking.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the kabobs while grilling to avoid overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dryness.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Complementing your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: This nutrient-packed vegetable adds color and is easy to prepare alongside your kabobs.
2. Quinoa Salad: A protein-rich salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light dressing provides a nutritious base.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter enhances summer vibes and pairs well with grilled flavors.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a delightful sweetness that contrasts nicely with teriyaki sauce.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup brings an authentic Japanese touch to your meal.
6. Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for a tasty, healthy snack option alongside kabobs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your kabobs turn out perfectly every time.

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating the chicken for at least an hour enhances the flavor. For best results, marinate overnight.
• Skipping the soaking of skewers: Wooden skewers can catch fire on the grill. Soak them in water for 1-24 hours to prevent this issue.
• Overcrowding the skewers: If you cram too much food onto each skewer, it won’t cook evenly. Leave space between pieces for proper grilling.
• Using high heat only: Starting with high heat may burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Begin grilling on medium heat for even cooking.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Always check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 170°F to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

• Wrap kabobs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place kabobs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in increments of 30 seconds until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a skillet for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs.

Can I use other meats for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu for different flavor profiles.

What vegetables pair well with Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs?

Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms all complement the kabobs nicely.

How do I know when my grilled teriyaki chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 170°F for safety.

Can I make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prep and marinate your kabobs ahead of time, then grill just before serving for fresh taste.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different vegetables or protein options based on your preference. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick dinner option, these kabobs are sure to please everyone at your table.