Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

A Sweet and Savory Grilled Delight

Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for weeknight dinners, summer cookouts, or entertaining guests. The tender chunks of chicken are marinated in a rich honey garlic sauce, then grilled to juicy perfection with caramelized edges. These skewers strike a perfect balance between sweet and savory, making them a universal favorite among kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic creates a rich, irresistible marinade.
• Great for Grilling: These skewers are ideal for outdoor barbecues, adding smoky charred notes to the succulent chicken.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, this dish is as convenient as it is delicious.
• Customizable: You can add vegetables, adjust sweetness, or spice it up to suit your taste.
• Meal Prep Friendly: The chicken can be marinated ahead of time and cooked quickly when needed.

Ingredients

For the marinade and skewers:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• ⅓ cup honey
• ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)

Optional garnish:

• Chopped green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, vinegar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2–4 hours. For maximum flavor, marinate overnight.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Discard excess marinade.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Place skewers on the grill and cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred on the edges. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot.

Variations

• Add Veggies: Thread bell peppers, red onion, or zucchini onto the skewers with the chicken.
• Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or chili paste to the marinade.
• Oven Option: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, or broil for the last 2–3 minutes for extra char.
• Use Different Protein: Try the same marinade with shrimp, pork, or tofu.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 4 servings (about 2 skewers per person)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 2–4 hours (or overnight for best flavor)
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: Approx. 2.5–4.5 hours including marinating

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze marinated raw chicken (before skewering) for up to 2 months. Thaw before grilling.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Avoid overcooking to retain juiciness.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 1 hour, but for best results, marinate for 2–4 hours or overnight.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs are juicier and work very well for grilling.

Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?

Absolutely. Bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, turning once, or broil for a slightly charred finish.

What vegetables go well on the skewers?

Bell peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini are great choices.

Can I use metal skewers?

Yes, metal skewers are reusable and don’t require soaking. Just be careful when handling as they retain heat.

How do I keep chicken from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grates before cooking and avoid turning the skewers too early. Let them develop a sear before flipping.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the chicken the night before and keep refrigerated until ready to grill.

What should I serve with honey garlic chicken skewers?

Serve with rice, quinoa, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this dish gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe is easily scalable. Just increase the ingredients proportionally.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are an easy and flavorful way to enjoy grilled chicken with a sweet and savory twist. The sticky glaze, tender meat, and quick cook time make them a winning choice for weeknight meals or outdoor gatherings. With room for customization and prep-ahead convenience, this versatile recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again.

Print