Here’s a list of all the ingredients for **grilled teriyaki chicken thigh skewers**, formatted with SEO-friendly keywords to help you rank better in search results:
- **Chicken thighs** (boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- **Soy sauce** (low-sodium for a healthier option)
- **Brown sugar** (for sweetness and caramelization)
- **Garlic** (minced, for a savory flavor)
- **Ginger** (freshly grated, for a zesty kick)
- **Rice vinegar** (adds tanginess to the marinade)
- **Sesame oil** (for a nutty aroma and flavor)
- **Honey** (or substitute with maple syrup for natural sweetness)
- **Cornstarch** (to thicken the teriyaki sauce)
- **Green onions** (chopped, for garnish)
- **Sesame seeds** (toasted, for added crunch and presentation)
- **Wooden skewers** (soaked in water to prevent burning)
- **Optional: Pineapple chunks** (for a sweet and tangy twist)
- **Optional: Red pepper flakes** (for a spicy kick)
This recipe combines **easy grilled chicken skewers** with a **homemade teriyaki sauce** for a flavorful, **Asian-inspired dish** perfect for summer grilling or weeknight dinners. Don’t forget to pair it with **steamed rice** or a **fresh salad** for a complete meal!
Steps
# How to Make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Thigh Skewers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Grilled teriyaki chicken thigh skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. This recipe combines juicy chicken thighs with a sweet and savory homemade teriyaki glaze, grilled to perfection. Follow these detailed steps to create restaurant-quality skewers at home.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Bamboo or metal skewers
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### **Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce**
1. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly add this to the sauce, stirring continuously.
4. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
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### **Step 2: Marinate the Chicken**
1. Place the chicken thigh pieces in a large bowl or resealable bag.
2. Pour half of the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, reserving the other half for basting and serving.
3. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
4. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
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### **Step 3: Prepare the Skewers**
1. If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
2. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
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### **Step 4: Preheat the Grill**
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F-400°F).
2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
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### **Step 5: Grill the Skewers**
1. Place the skewers on the preheated grill.
2. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, basting with the reserved teriyaki sauce during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
3. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
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### **Step 6: Garnish and Serve**
1. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 2-3 minutes.
2. Drizzle with the remaining teriyaki sauce and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
3. Serve hot with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
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### **Tips for Perfect Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Thigh Skewers**
- Use chicken thighs for juicier results compared to chicken breasts.
- Double the teriyaki sauce recipe if you prefer extra for dipping.
- For a smoky flavor, use a charcoal grill or add wood chips to a gas grill.
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This grilled teriyaki chicken thigh skewers recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the sweet, savory, and smoky flavors of this delicious dish!