Sweet Glazed Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Sweet Glazed Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for barbecues, weeknight dinners, or appetizer platters. Tender pieces of chicken are marinated in a flavorful sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, threaded onto skewers, and grilled or baked to perfection.

The result is a juicy, caramelized exterior with an irresistible glaze that clings to every bite. The combination of sweet soy, garlic, ginger, and honey delivers a rich umami flavor that elevates simple chicken into a restaurant-quality dish.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy, flavorful, and versatile. The marinade infuses the chicken with sweet and savory goodness, while grilling or baking creates a slightly caramelized exterior that makes the dish visually appealing and utterly satisfying.

It’s perfect for entertaining, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner. What’s especially wonderful is how the flavors deepen the longer you marinate the chicken—the end result is always juicy, aromatic, and irresistible.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Juicy and Tender: The marinade ensures succulent chicken every time.
• Sweet and Savory: Perfect balance of teriyaki flavors with a hint of honey.
• Easy to Make: Minimal ingredients, quick prep, and fast cooking.
• Versatile: Ideal as an appetizer, main dish, or party finger food.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by adults and kids alike.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 1–2 hours (optional for deeper flavor)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 (8 skewers)
• Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per serving
• Course: Main / Appetizer
• Cuisine: Asian / Japanese-Inspired

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 8 wooden or metal skewers

For the Teriyaki Glaze:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar or mirin
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For Garnish (Optional):

• Toasted sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Marinade

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper.
2. Reserve 2–3 tablespoons of the marinade for glazing while cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Add chicken pieces to the remaining marinade.
2. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to overnight) for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15–20 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers evenly, leaving a little space between pieces.

Step 4: Cook the Skewers

Grill Method:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill skewers for 4–5 minutes per side, brushing with reserved glaze, until chicken is cooked through and caramelized.

Oven Method:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place skewers on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway and brushing with reserved glaze, until cooked through and slightly caramelized.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare teriyaki marinade and reserve some for glazing.
2. Marinate chicken for 1–2 hours.
3. Soak wooden skewers (if using).
4. Thread chicken onto skewers.
5. Preheat grill or oven.
6. Cook skewers, brushing with reserved glaze until caramelized and cooked through.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
8. Serve hot.

How to Serve

• Serve skewers as an appetizer with a side of steamed rice or salad.
• Pair with stir-fried vegetables or a noodle dish for a complete meal.
• Drizzle extra reserved glaze over the cooked skewers for added flavor.

Recipe Tips

• Use chicken thighs for juicier skewers; chicken breasts work too but may be slightly drier.
• Don’t overcrowd the skewers to ensure even cooking.
• Turn skewers frequently when grilling to avoid burning the glaze.
• Let chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain juices.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions just before serving.

Variations

1. Spicy Teriyaki Skewers: Add 1 tsp sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade.
2. Vegetable Skewers: Alternate chicken with bell peppers, zucchini, and onions.
3. Pineapple Teriyaki Skewers: Add pineapple chunks for a sweet, tropical twist.
4. Honey Garlic Teriyaki: Increase honey and garlic for a richer, sweeter glaze.
5. Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store cooked skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
• Freezer: Uncooked marinated chicken skewers can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Special Equipment Needed

• Grill, grill pan, or oven
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Mixing bowl for marinade
• Basting brush (optional, for glaze)

FAQ

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes, simply brush with glaze and warm on the grill or in the oven before serving.

Q2: Can I make this vegan?
A: Substitute tofu, tempeh, or seitan for chicken and follow the same marinade and cooking instructions.

Q3: How long should I marinate the chicken?
A: Minimum 1 hour; overnight gives the deepest flavor.

Q4: Can I cook these indoors?
A: Yes, bake in the oven or use a stovetop grill pan.

Q5: How do I prevent the glaze from burning?
A: Apply the glaze during the last few minutes of cooking and turn skewers frequently.

Conclusion

Sweet Glazed Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s juicy, flavorful, and visually appealing. Perfect for grilling season, weeknight dinners, or party appetizers, these skewers offer a balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors in every bite.

Easy to prepare and customizable, they bring restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen with minimal effort. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a favorite for entertaining or casual meals alike.