Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Looking for an easy, light and summery dish? Try these Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs! This delightful recipe combines tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and vibrant vegetables grilled to perfection. Perfect for family dinners, backyard barbecues, or even meal prep, these kabobs are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These kabobs can be marinated in advance and grilled in just 15 minutes.
• Flavorful Marinade: The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce infuses the chicken with rich flavors.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or fruits for a personal touch.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fresh produce, they make a nutritious meal option.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Easy to serve and share, making them ideal for parties or cookouts.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Grill
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for holding the ingredients together while grilling. Wooden skewers should be soaked to prevent burning.
• Grill: Provides that smoky flavor we love in grilled dishes. A medium heat is perfect for cooking without drying out the meat.
• Small saucepan: Used to prepare the teriyaki sauce. It ensures even mixing of the ingredients.
• Whisk: Ideal for combining sauces smoothly without lumps.

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, rice apple vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Allow it to 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 add this mixture to your soy sauce blend while stirring continuously. Once combined, turn off the heat and set aside.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken pieces in a shallow bowl. Pour half of the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken and turn it to coat evenly. Cover it and let it marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Kabobs

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Start assembling your kabobs by alternating pieces of marinated chicken with pineapple chunks, bell pepper pieces, and onion chunks on each skewer.

Step 5: Grill the Kabobs

Place the assembled kabobs on the grill. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 170°F (75°C). Carefully turn them over and cook for an additional minute.

Step 6: Brush with Sauce

After flipping, brush some of the reserved teriyaki sauce on top of each kabob. Let them cook for one more minute before turning again to coat with sauce on that side too.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Allow them to grill for another minute before transferring to a serving platter. Serve these delicious Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs hot! Enjoy this flavorful dish with friends or family!

How to Serve Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your meal preferences. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

On a Bed of Rice

• White or Brown Rice: Serve the kabobs over fluffy steamed rice for a hearty meal.
• Fried Rice: Pair with vegetable fried rice for added flavor and texture.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor complements the chicken perfectly.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light dressing balances the richness of the kabobs.

In Tacos

• Corn Tortillas: Use soft corn tortillas to create delicious kabob tacos, adding avocado and salsa for extra zest.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, wrap the chicken and veggies in lettuce leaves.

With Dipping Sauces

• Extra Teriyaki Sauce: Provide additional sauce on the side for dipping.
• Peanut Sauce: A nutty sauce adds an interesting twist and pairs well with the flavors of teriyaki.

How to Perfect Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Achieving perfectly grilled teriyaki chicken kabobs involves some attention to detail. Here are tips to ensure your kabobs come out delicious every time.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavor significantly.
• Pre-soak Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring even cooking.
• Use Uniform Pieces: Cut chicken and vegetables into similar sizes for even grilling.
• Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 170°F for safety.
• Baste Frequently: Brush on teriyaki sauce during grilling for added flavor and moisture.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow kabobs to rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps juices redistribute.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

When serving grilled teriyaki chicken kabobs, side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty options that pair well.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that adds vibrant color and crunch. Steam until tender but still bright green.
2. Coconut Rice: Cook rice with coconut milk for a sweet, fragrant side that complements savory flavors.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots offers a refreshing contrast to warm kabobs.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries add sweetness that balances the savory teriyaki chicken beautifully.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn is always a hit; brush it with butter and sprinkle with salt before serving.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs adds protein and fiber, making it a wholesome choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the skewers: When you place too many pieces on each skewer, they can cook unevenly. Make sure to leave some space between items for better heat circulation.

• Skipping the marinade time: If you don’t allow enough time for the chicken to marinate, it may lack flavor. Aim for at least one hour or overnight if possible to enhance the taste.

• Not preheating the grill: Cooking on a cold grill can lead to sticking and uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium heat before placing the kabobs on it.

• Ignoring internal temperature: It’s essential to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 170°F. Using a meat thermometer ensures safety and perfect doneness.

• Using dry ingredients: If you skip the olive oil or don’t soak wooden skewers, they might stick or burn. Always ensure you coat your skewers lightly with oil and soak them beforehand.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

• Place cooled kabobs in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months.

Reheating Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place kabobs on a baking tray. 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 short intervals, checking to avoid overcooking.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Sauté kabobs for about 5-7 minutes until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken is best for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs?

Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts is ideal as they cook quickly and remain juicy when grilled.

Can I use other vegetables with my kabobs?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I ensure my kabobs don’t stick to the grill?

Make sure your grill is well preheated and lightly oiled before adding the kabobs. Soaking wooden skewers also helps prevent sticking.

Can I make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance or assemble the kabobs and store them covered in the fridge until ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize them with various vegetables and seasonings. This dish makes for a perfect summer meal that’s light yet satisfying. Give it a try, and feel free to experiment with flavors that suit your taste!