There’s nothing quite like the sweet, smoky allure of Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers sizzling on the BBQ during a summer gathering. The first time I grilled these delightful skewers, the mouthwatering aroma instantly drew everyone near, eager for a taste of the honey-glazed chicken mingling with fresh veggies. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or just looking for a quick and easy family dinner, this recipe is a go-to crowd pleaser.
With a perfect blend of tender chicken, tangy marinade, and a splash of vibrant color from bell peppers and onions, these skewers are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Need to switch things up? You can easily substitute ingedients based on what you have, making this recipe as flexible as it is flavorful. So, grab your skewers and let’s get cooking; your taste buds are in for a treat!
Why are Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers so loved?
Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates an irresistible glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Perfectly suited for any family meal, these skewers make eating fun for kids while packing in nutrition.
Quick Prep: Marinate ahead of time for an easy, stress-free meal—simply grill when you’re ready.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize easily! Swap veggies or use chicken thighs for a juicier bite to suit your family’s preferences.
Visual Appeal: Vibrant colors from the bell peppers and onions not only jazz up your plate but also ensure you eat the rainbow.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or just want to spice up dinner, these skewers are sure to impress.
Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers Ingredients
Let’s gather everything you need for these delightful skewers that will make your BBQ unforgettable!
For the Marinade
- Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture and helps in marinating; substitute with canola or olive oil.
- Sesame Oil – Provides a nutty flavor and richness; optional for those with sesame allergies.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Imparts a savory depth; fresh garlic is recommended.
- Minced Ginger (1 tsp) – Brightens the marinade with its spiciness; can be replaced with ground ginger if necessary.
- Dark Soy Sauce (3 tbsp) – Adds umami and color; use tamari for a gluten-free version.
- Honey (3 tbsp) – Sweetens and caramelizes on the grill; maple syrup can be a vegan alternative.
For the Skewers
- Chicken Breasts (2, approx. 350g/12.5 oz) – Provides lean protein; thighs can be a substitute for juicier skewers.
- Red Bell Pepper (1, chopped into large chunks) – Offers a sweet crunch; substitutes include zucchini or yellow bell pepper.
- Onion (1, peeled and sliced into squares) – Adds flavor and texture; use red onion for a milder taste.
For Garnish
- Sesame Seeds (1 tbsp) – For garnish and added crunch; can replace with chopped peanuts for a different texture.
- Coriander/Cilantro (small bunch, roughly torn) – Adds freshness and color; omit if not a fan of coriander.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
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Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together vegetable oil, sesame oil, minced garlic, ginger, dark soy sauce, and honey until well combined, creating a rich, flavorful marinade.
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Marinate Chicken: Pour three-quarters of the marinade over bite-sized chicken pieces in a container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 1 day, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply.
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Soak Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 1 hour to prevent burning on the grill. If using metal skewers, no soaking is needed!
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Prepare for Cooking: Preheat your BBQ or griddle until it reaches a high temperature, ensuring a great sear on the skewers.
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Assemble Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with chunks of red pepper and onion for a colorful presentation. Discard any leftover marinade.
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Cook Skewers: Place the assembled skewers on the BBQ or griddle, cooking for about 8-10 minutes. Turn them every 2-3 minutes and brush with reserved marinade halfway through for extra flavor.
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Check Doneness: Use a knife to cut into the largest piece of chicken. It should be cooked through with no pink remaining.
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Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, sprinkle the skewers with sesame seeds and torn coriander before serving with a refreshing salad or sides like rice or roasted potatoes.
Optional: Serve with a squeeze of lime for an added zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to savor delicious flavors while saving time during busy weeknights. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the marinade and coat the chicken pieces before refrigerating them in an airtight container. This helps the flavors intensify without compromising quality. Additionally, you can chop the veggies (red peppers and onions) a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just thread the marinated chicken and veggies onto skewers and grill them for about 8-10 minutes. You’ll have an easy, mouthwatering meal at your fingertips with minimal effort!
Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers Variations
Customize your dish and make it uniquely yours with these delightful twists that will keep your taste buds excited!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free and dairy-free alternative that still packs a flavor punch.
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Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to your marinade for an extra zing that livens up each skewer.
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Tropical Flavor: Swap red bell pepper for chunks of pineapple to add a sweet tropical twist that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the marinade for a fresh, fragrant twist that brightens each bite. It’s a perfect way to elevate the flavor profile!
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Veggie Medley: Experiment with different vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for a colorful and texturally diverse skewer.
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Maple Sweetness: For a unique sweetness, substitute honey with maple syrup, giving the skewers a rich, earthy flavor that’s truly memorable.
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Balsamic Glaze: Brush with balsamic glaze during cooking for added depth and a tangy-sweet finish that complements the other flavors beautifully.
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Grilled Seafood: Swap chicken for shrimp or firm white fish for a light and summery alternative that pairs wonderfully with the honey garlic marinade. The quick grilling ensures they remain tender and juicy!
What to Serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers?
Create a delightful meal that balances flavors and textures with these perfect pairings!
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy and tangy side contrasts beautifully with the sweet skewers, providing a refreshing bite. The coolness of the coleslaw complements the warmth of the grilled chicken, making every mouthful a pleasure.
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Fluffy Rice: A simple serving of steamed rice acts as a neutral base that soaks up the delicious honey garlic marinade. For an extra touch, try adding some herbs or lime for a zesty twist!
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Grilled Vegetables: Skewering some zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus alongside your chicken adds flavor and nutrition, creating a colorful feast. The char on the veggies enhances the grilled experience, making it truly memorable.
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Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce from your skewers. The buttery, crunchy exterior of the bread provides an irresistible texture.
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Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with a sesame dressing balances the sweetness of the chicken. The crunch from fresh cucumbers adds a delightful contrast to the meal.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: Pair these skewers with a cool glass of lemonade or sweet iced tea. The citrus notes offer brightness that cuts through the richness of the marinade while refreshing your palate.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky grilled corn is a classic summer side that complements the skewers perfectly. The sweetness of the corn echoes the honey glaze, making your BBQ dinner spectacular.
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Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad featuring watermelon, berries, and mint can serve as a light dessert. The natural sweetness and juiciness of the fruit cleanse the palate after the savory flavors of the meal.
Storage Tips for Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
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Fridge: Store cooked skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warm.
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Freezer: Freeze cooked skewers in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: To keep the chicken juicy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid direct microwave reheating, as it may dry them out.
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Marinating: You can marinate the chicken for up to 1 day in advance before cooking, allowing the flavors to deepen without compromising texture.
Expert Tips for Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
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Soak Skewers: Soak wooden skewers for at least an hour to avoid burning. This ensures your honey garlic chicken skewers cook perfectly without charred sticks.
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Uniform Chicken Pieces: Cut chicken into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking. This prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others are overdone.
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Alternate Ingredients: Mix it up! Try adding pineapple or bell peppers for sweetness, and remember to leave space between pieces on the skewers for even grilling.
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Check Doneness: Always cut into the thickest piece of chicken to check for doneness. If it’s pink, finish cooking in a hot oven covered with foil for 5-10 minutes.
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Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, marinate your chicken overnight. This allows the garlic and honey to infuse deeply, making every bite of your skewers a burst of flavor.
Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for bright, firm bell peppers without blemishes. Choose chicken breasts that are pale pink with a fresh smell, avoiding any dark spots or strong odors. If you’re opting for herbs like coriander, select the freshest bunch with vibrant green leaves and no wilting to ensure maximum flavor.
How should I store leftover Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers?
Very! Place any cooked skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days, keeping that delicious flavor intact. Just remember to reheat gently to avoid drying them out. If you want, you can serve them cold as well, which makes for a delightful summer salad!
Can I freeze the Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers?
You can! To freeze, lay the cooked skewers flat in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven for the best texture.
What should I do if the chicken is pink after cooking?
Very important! If you find the chicken is still pink after cooking, don’t panic. Simply transfer the skewers to a hot oven at 350°F (175°C). Cover them with foil and let them cook for an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked through without losing moisture. It’s the safest way to finish up your skewers!
Are Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers safe for pets or individuals with allergies?
It’s good to be cautious! While honey is not toxic to pets, it’s best to keep these skewers away from them due to the other ingredients like soy sauce, which can be harmful. If you or anyone has soy or sesame allergies, feel free to use alternatives like coconut aminos or leave out the sesame oil. Always check labels and ensure the ingredients are safe for your family’s needs.
Sweet and Smoky Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, mix together vegetable oil, sesame oil, minced garlic, ginger, dark soy sauce, and honey until well combined.
- Pour three-quarters of the marinade over bite-sized chicken pieces in a container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 1 hour to prevent burning.
- Preheat your BBQ or griddle until it reaches a high temperature.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with chunks of red pepper and onion. Discard leftover marinade.
- Place the assembled skewers on the BBQ or griddle, cooking for about 8-10 minutes.
- Use a knife to cut into the largest piece of chicken to check doneness.
- Once cooked, sprinkle the skewers with sesame seeds and torn coriander before serving.