These Easy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are packed with flavor and super fun to eat! Juicy chicken chunks get a tasty teriyaki glaze that makes each bite sweet and savory.
Grilling these kabobs is a breeze, and they make for a perfect meal or snack. I love to serve them with rice and veggies for a complete dinner. Who else enjoys skewering their food? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs or Breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. If you want a leaner option, go for chicken breasts. You can also use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist!
Teriyaki Sauce: Store-bought sauces are quick and convenient. If you want a homemade version, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey, depending on your taste.
Bell Pepper: Any color works! I enjoy using a mix for a vibrant look. If you’re out of bell peppers, zucchini or cherry tomatoes can also be tasty alternatives.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a great zing, but canned works too. If you prefer a different touch, mango chunks can give a tropical flair.
How Do I Make Sure My Kabobs Cook Evenly on the Grill?
To achieve perfectly cooked kabobs, it’s crucial to assemble them correctly. Start with pieces of chicken in between the veggies and fruit. This helps everything cook together nicely while adding flavor. Here are some tips to ensure even cooking:
- Soak wooden skewers to prevent burning. This is key for a good grilling experience.
- Keep the chunks uniform—about 1-inch pieces—so they cook at the same rate.
- Preheat your grill! A medium-high temperature helps get those delicious grill marks and helps the chicken cook at the right pace.
- Turn the skewers regularly while grilling, about every 3-4 minutes, to avoid charring.
How to Make Easy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 10-15 minutes for grilling. Don’t forget to include at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken! So, plan for about 1 hour total, including the marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix the chicken pieces with the teriyaki sauce. Make sure the chicken is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating for up to 2 hours will make it even tastier!
2. Prep the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill. While the skewers are soaking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat so it’s ready when your kabobs are assembled.
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. On each skewer, thread alternating pieces of the marinated chicken, bell pepper, onion, and pineapple. This will not only make your kabobs colorful but also delicious with all those flavors combined!
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Carefully place the assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the kabobs for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks. The chicken should be cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
5. Serve:
Once grilled, take the kabobs off the grill and sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a nice touch. Serve these tasty treats with extra teriyaki sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful Easy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the vegetables. Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms work great as substitutes. Just make sure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Skewers?
If you’re short on skewers, you can grill the kabobs in a grill basket or make a foil packet with the chicken and veggies. Just make sure to toss everything in teriyaki sauce before grilling—it’ll keep things flavorful!
Can I Prepare These Kabobs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time! Just keep it in the fridge for up to 2 hours before grilling. If you’re assembling the kabobs, you can do that up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.
How to Store Leftover Kabobs
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold, or reheat them on the grill for a few minutes to warm through without drying them out.
