The Best Teriyaki Chicken Skewers You’ll Ever Try (Easy and Delicious!)
I have to confess something—I’m a little obsessed with grilled food.
There’s just something about juicy chicken, smoky from the grill, and brushed with a sticky sweet sauce that makes me so happy.
That’s how I came up with these teriyaki chicken skewers. I wanted something simple, fun to eat, and full of flavor. And let me tell you, these skewers hit the spot.
If you like food that’s easy to make but tastes like it came from a restaurant, you’re going to love this recipe. Let’s dive right in.
What Are Teriyaki Chicken Skewers?
Teriyaki chicken skewers are bite-sized pieces of chicken marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, then grilled on skewers until caramelized and juicy. They’re sticky, tender, and full of flavor in every bite.
The best part? You can serve them as a main dish with rice, as party appetizers, or even take them to a barbecue. They’re versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need anything fancy for this recipe. Just a few simple ingredients:
- Chicken breast or thighs – I like thighs because they stay juicy, but breast works too.
- Teriyaki sauce – Store-bought or homemade.
- Soy sauce – For that salty, umami flavor.
- Brown sugar or honey – Adds sweetness and caramelization.
- Garlic and ginger – Fresh is best for bold flavor.
- Vegetables (optional) – Bell peppers, onions, or zucchini if you want to add color and crunch.
- Wooden or metal skewers – For grilling.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Skewers Step by Step
1. Prep the Chicken
Cut your chicken into bite-sized chunks. Not too big, not too small. You want them all about the same size so they cook evenly.
2. Make the Marinade
Mix teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a little honey or sugar. This will be your flavor bomb.
3. Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes in the fridge—overnight is even better. The longer, the juicier and more flavorful they’ll be.
4. Skewer the Chicken
Thread the chicken onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes first so they don’t burn on the grill. You can also add veggies between the chicken pieces for extra flavor.
5. Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on a hot grill or grill pan. Cook for about 8–10 minutes, turning often, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Brush with Sauce
While grilling, brush more teriyaki sauce on the skewers. This makes them sticky, shiny, and packed with flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with rice, noodles, or even as finger food. Sprinkle sesame seeds or green onions on top for the perfect finish.
Why You’ll Love These Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
These skewers are so good that I honestly crave them even after I’ve just eaten. Here’s why you’ll love them too:
- They’re quick and easy to make.
- The chicken stays juicy and tender.
- The sauce is sticky, sweet, and savory all at once.
- They’re fun to eat—perfect for kids and adults.
- You can make them for dinner, parties, or barbecues.
Tips for the Best Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
- Don’t rush the marinade. Give the chicken time to soak up flavor.
- Keep the grill hot. High heat gives you those nice grill marks and caramelization.
- Baste often. More sauce equals more flavor.
- Use thighs for juicier chicken. Breast can dry out faster.
- Soak wooden skewers. It keeps them from burning.
Variations to Try
- Teriyaki Pineapple Skewers – Add pineapple chunks between the chicken for a tropical twist.
- Spicy Teriyaki Skewers – Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for heat.
- Veggie-Packed Skewers – Mix in mushrooms, zucchini, or onions.
- Oven-Baked Version – No grill? Bake them at 400°F until cooked through, then broil for a charred finish.
How to Store and Reheat
If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house), you can store them easily:
- In the fridge – Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the freezer – Freeze cooked skewers for up to 2 months.
- To reheat – Warm them in the oven or air fryer so they stay juicy.
FAQs About Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Q: Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?
Yes! Store-bought works fine, but homemade tastes fresher.
Q: Can I cook them without a grill?
Absolutely. A grill pan or oven broiler works just as well.
Q: What kind of chicken is best?
Thighs stay juicy, but breasts work if you prefer lean meat.
Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes, but overnight makes them extra flavorful.
Q: What sides go best with these skewers?
Steamed rice, fried rice, stir-fried veggies, or noodles are all perfect.
Final Thoughts
These teriyaki chicken skewers are one of my go-to recipes when I want something tasty but easy. The marinade does all the work, and the grill makes them smoky, sticky, and irresistible. Whether you’re making them for dinner, a party, or just because you’re craving something good, I promise these skewers won’t disappoint.
So, are you ready to fire up the grill and give them a try? Once you take that first bite, you’ll see why I keep coming back to this recipe again and again.
