When the weather turns warm and grill season beckons, there’s nothing quite like the smell of marinated chicken skewers sizzling on the barbecue. As I pulled together the ingredients for these Flavor-Packed Korean Chicken Skewers, the vibrant colors and enticing aromas transported me straight to a bustling street market in Seoul. Marinated in a slightly spicy gochujang sauce and kissed with garlic and ginger, each tender piece of chicken unfolds into a delightful burst of flavor with every bite.
These skewers are not just a feast for the senses; they’re incredibly versatile and perfect for entertaining or a cozy weeknight dinner. Whether you’re hosting friends for a summer barbecue or simply seeking a break from fast food, these grilled treats will impress with their complexity and ease. Pair them with a refreshing Asian-style salad or a bowl of jasmine rice, and you’ve got yourself a meal that feels festive yet effortless. Let’s dive into this delicious journey!
Why will you love these grilled Asian Chicken Skewers?
Easy Preparation: These grilled Asian Chicken Skewers come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite boasts a harmonious blend of gochujang, ginger, and garlic, delightful for those craving savory, slightly spicy flavors.
Versatile Dish: Feel free to get creative—add colorful veggies or swap in shrimp for a unique twist!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these skewers will wow your friends and family with their rich taste and stunning presentation.
Healthy Option: With approximately 264 calories per serving, they provide protein-packed goodness without compromising on flavor. Perfect for those watching their diet!
Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers Ingredients
For the Skewers
- Chicken Thighs – A juicy protein source; boneless skinless chicken breasts can also be used for similar results.
- Skewers – Essential for grilling; remember to soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning.
For the Marinade
- Fresh Ginger – Imparts aromatic spiciness; ground ginger (1 tsp) can serve as a substitute if fresh is unavailable.
- Minced Garlic – Adds depth of flavor; use fresh for the best results, or you can use ground garlic (1 tsp).
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce – This adds umami and saltiness; using low sodium helps keep the dish healthier.
- Brown Sugar – Balances the spiciness with sweetness; granulated white sugar can replace it if brown sugar is out of stock.
- Sesame Oil – Infuses a rich, nutty flavor into the marinade.
- Rice Vinegar – Brings a bright acidity; white wine vinegar can substitute if necessary.
- Gochujang – A Korean hot pepper paste that is key to the marinade and provides the expected flavor; you can use tomato paste (1 tbsp) and sriracha (1/2 tsp) as a backup.
For Garnish
- Chopped Green Onions – Optional but adds fresh color and crunch as a garnish.
These grilled Asian chicken skewers are not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor, making them an exciting addition to any meal!
How to Make Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers
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Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken thighs into 1½-inch cubes and place them in a bowl, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
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Whisk the Marinade: In a separate bowl, whisk together fresh ginger, minced garlic, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and gochujang until fully combined.
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Marinate the Chicken: Pour half of the marinade over the chicken cubes, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for deeper flavors.
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Set Up for Grilling: Reserve the remaining marinade for basting. Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked skewers, making sure not to overcrowd them for even grilling.
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Preheat the Grill: Get your grill heated to medium, around 350°F, which is perfect for achieving that beautiful char on the chicken.
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Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 20-30 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes. Baste with the reserved marinade during the last few minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Pair with rice or an Asian-style salad for a complete meal.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of extra gochujang for those who like it spicy!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Korean Chicken Skewers?
These vibrant skewers offer a delightful burst of flavors and aromas, making your meal complete and unforgettable.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy, aromatic rice absorbs the bold flavors of the skewers, creating a comforting and satisfying pairing.
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Asian Cabbage Salad: Crunchy, fresh vegetables tossed with a light sesame vinaigrette add a refreshing contrast to the savory skewers.
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Grilled Vegetable Medley: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and onions provide a smoky sweetness that enhances the skewers’ rich flavors, making for a colorful side dish.
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Kimchi: This spicy fermented vegetable dish brings a tangy crunch that complements the skewers, adding a touch of traditional Korean spice to your meal.
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Mango Salsa: Bright and sweet mango mixed with cilantro and lime creates a tropical escape that balances the heat of the gochujang, making every bite a little paradise.
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Chilled Soba Noodles: Light and slightly nutty soba noodles tossed with sesame oil and scallions offer a cool, satisfying complement that enhances the grilled flavors.
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Peach Iced Tea: A refreshing drink infused with fruity sweetness perfectly counters the spicy notes of the skewers, making your meal a delightful experience.
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Chocolate Dipped Fortune Cookies: End on a light note with these fun desserts, as their crunchy exterior and sweet chocolate coating offer a playful finish to your lovely meal.
Storage Tips for Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers
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Fridge: Store leftover grilled Asian chicken skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while preserving the delightful flavors of the marinade.
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Freezer: If you want to enjoy them later, wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them!
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat. This helps maintain their juicy texture and delicious taste.
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Serving Suggestion: For the best experience, serve them warm with a side of rice or an Asian-style salad to bring back that fresh-off-the-grill flavor.
Expert Tips for Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers
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Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 4 hours or, better yet, overnight! This ensures the grilled Asian chicken skewers absorb every bit of deliciousness.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Thread the chicken onto the skewers without packing them too tightly. This allows for more even cooking and better caramelization on the grill.
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Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This important step prevents them from burning during cooking!
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Proper Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F) for best results. This helps achieve that lovely char without drying out the chicken.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is properly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for perfectly juicy skewers.
Make Ahead Options
These grilled Asian chicken skewers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken pieces up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover and refrigerate them to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, thread the marinated chicken onto soaked skewers and grill them straight from the fridge for maximum freshness. This way, you can enjoy delicious, homemade skewers with minimal effort, ensuring they’ll be just as scrumptious as if you made them on the spot!
Grilled Chicken Skewers Variations
Feel free to tailor these skewers to match your cravings and available ingredients for an exciting twist!
- Veggie Boost: Add colorful bell peppers, zucchini, or onions to the skewers for a pop of color and fiber.
- Seafood Switch: Use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken for a delicious seafood version bursting with flavor.
- Spicy Upgrade: Increase the heat by adding sliced jalapeños or an extra tablespoon of gochujang to the marinade.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the marinade for a refreshing taste and aromatic lift.
- Teriyaki Twist: Swap the marinade with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter, umami-filled flavor that the whole family will love.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze some fresh lime or lemon juice into the marinade for a bright acidity that complements the spices beautifully.
- Sweet Addition: Toss in some pineapple chunks on the skewers to caramelize on the grill and add delightful sweetness.
- Alternative Proteins: For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with firm tofu, marinating until infused with taste.
Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for these skewers?
Absolutely! For the juiciest results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They have a higher fat content than chicken breasts, keeping them tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless skinless chicken breasts can also be used, but they might dry out if overcooked.
What’s the best way to store leftover skewers?
Leftover grilled Asian chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool to room temperature before sealing them in. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat to revive that freshly grilled taste.
Can I freeze grilled chicken skewers?
Yes, you certainly can! To freeze, wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them inside a freezer-safe bag. They will stay good for up to 3 months. Once you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat them on the grill or in a skillet to maintain their delicious texture.
What should I do if the skewers are sticking to the grill?
Very! If your skewers tend to stick, be sure your grill is well-oiled before placing the skewers on it. Heat the grill to medium and just before adding the chicken, wipe the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil. This simple step will prevent sticking and make flipping your skewers easier!
Can my pets eat grilled chicken skewers?
It’s best to avoid sharing grilled skewers with your pets, especially due to ingredients like soy sauce and gochujang, which can be harmful to them. However, plain grilled chicken (without sauces) is perfectly fine in moderation. Always check with your vet to ensure it’s safe for your pet’s diet.
How do I adjust the spice level in the marinade?
You can easily adjust the spiciness to your liking! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of gochujang by half or substitute it with a milder chili paste. On the flip side, if you crave more heat, add extra gochujang or a splash of sriracha. Experimenting will help you discover your perfect balance!
Savor Every Bite of Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut chicken thighs into 1½-inch cubes and place them in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together fresh ginger, minced garlic, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and gochujang until fully combined.
- Pour half of the marinade over the chicken cubes, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for deeper flavors.
- Reserve the remaining marinade for basting. Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked skewers.
- Preheat your grill to medium, around 350°F.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 20-30 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes and basting with the reserved marinade until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove the skewers from the grill and sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.