Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Name: Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Pineapple chunks; Red onion; Bell pepper; Soy sauce; Brown sugar; Garlic and ginger; Olive oil

Published: August 22, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy delicious kabobs without spending all day in the kitchen.
Flavor Packed: The homemade teriyaki sauce is a game changer, infusing the chicken and veggies with rich, savory flavors.
Customizable: Easily swap out vegetables or add your favorite ingredients to make these kabobs truly your own.
Healthy Option: These kabobs are a great way to incorporate lean protein and fresh produce into your diet.
Fun to Grill: Skewering the ingredients makes grilling interactive and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Wooden skewers
Small saucepan
Whisk
Shallow bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Provides that perfect char and smoky flavor that elevates the kabobs.
Wooden skewers: Essential for holding all ingredients together while they cook evenly on the grill.
Small saucepan: Perfect for making the teriyaki sauce quickly on the stove.
Whisk: Helps in incorporating ingredients smoothly when preparing sauces or mixtures.

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Sauce

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons sweet rice apple vinegar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 teaspoons minced ginger
1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Kabobs

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
2 cups pineapple chunks
1 red onion (cut into chunks)
1 bell pepper (cut into chunks)
Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper
Olive oil (to prevent sticking)
12 wooden skewers soaked in water for 1–24 hours

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the soy sauce, water, rice apple vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring this mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Slowly whisk this mixture into the soy sauce mixture in your saucepan. Turn off the heat and set it aside.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a shallow bowl. Pour half of the teriyaki sauce over them, turning to coat evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 4: Assemble Your Kabobs

Preheat your grill. Take your soaked wooden skewers and begin assembling by alternating pieces of marinated chicken with pineapple chunks, bell pepper pieces, and onion chunks.

Step 5: Grill the Kabobs

Place your assembled kabobs on the grill over medium heat. Cook them for about 3–4 minutes until the internal temperature of chicken reaches 170°F. Turn each kabob over and cook for an additional minute.

Step 6: Brush with Teriyaki Sauce

Using a brush, apply additional teriyaki sauce to each kabob as they cook. Allow them to cook for another minute before flipping again to coat both sides thoroughly.

Step 7: Serve

Once cooked through, transfer your kabobs to a serving platter. Serve immediately with any remaining teriyaki sauce drizzled on top or on the side! Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs!

How to Serve Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, these kabobs can be paired with different sides and sauces to elevate your meal.

Serve with Rice

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice complements the flavors of teriyaki perfectly.
Fried Rice: A savory fried rice adds another layer of flavor and texture.

Add Fresh Salads

Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad can refresh your palate between bites.
Asian Slaw: Crunchy coleslaw dressed in sesame vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

Extra Teriyaki Sauce: Serve alongside more teriyaki sauce for those who love extra flavor.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds a spicy-sweet kick that enhances the grilled chicken taste.

Include Grilled Vegetables

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn brings a sweet crunch that balances the dish.
Zucchini and Squash Skewers: These can be grilled alongside the kabobs for an extra veggie boost.

How to Perfect Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

To make your grilled teriyaki chicken kabobs even better, consider some helpful tips. Following these suggestions will ensure your kabobs are flavorful and juicy every time.

Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight infuses more flavor into each bite.
Soak Skewers Properly: Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill. Aim for at least 1 hour.
Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill ensures proper searing, locking in moisture and flavor.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the overall taste of your teriyaki sauce.
Watch Cooking Time: Overcooking can dry out the chicken; aim for 3-4 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Rotate Kabobs Frequently: Turning kabobs helps achieve even cooking on all sides.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Pairing side dishes with grilled teriyaki chicken kabobs enhances their flavor and makes your meal more complete. Here are some great options to consider:

Coconut Rice: The slight sweetness of coconut rice complements the savory notes of the kabobs beautifully.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds comfort and pairs well with Asian flavors.
Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame is a healthy snack that’s easy to prepare.
Garlic Noodles: These flavorful noodles provide a hearty addition to your meal.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add a satisfying crunch alongside your kabobs.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad offers a sweet contrast to the savory chicken, keeping it light and refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling can be tricky, and even seasoned cooks make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs.

Not soaking skewers: Skewers that aren’t soaked can catch fire on the grill. Make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 1 hour before using them.
Skipping the marinade time: Failing to marinate the chicken long enough can lead to bland kabobs. Aim for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too many ingredients onto each skewer can prevent even cooking. Leave a little space between items for better heat circulation.
Ignoring chicken temperature: Not checking the internal temperature of the chicken may result in undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 170°F.
Not preheating the grill: Grilling on an unheated surface can lead to uneven cooking and sticking. Always preheat your grill to medium heat before placing kabobs on it.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store grilled kabobs in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Make sure they are cooled down before sealing the container.

Freezing Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Wrap kabobs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Store in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place kabobs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until desired warmth is reached.
Stovetop: In a skillet, add a little olive oil and heat over medium-low. Add kabobs and cook while turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs?

Marinate your chicken for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor absorption in these delicious Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs.

Can I use other vegetables with my kabobs?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs with vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms according to your preference.

What kind of soy sauce is best for teriyaki sauce?

Using low-sodium soy sauce is recommended for a balanced flavor without overwhelming saltiness in your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs.

Can I prepare these kabobs ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the kabobs earlier in the day and store them in the refrigerator until it’s time to grill, making meal prep easier!

Final Thoughts

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are not only flavorful but also versatile, making them perfect for any gathering or family dinner. Feel free to customize them with your favorite veggies or switch up the marinade ingredients. Try this dish today and enjoy a taste of summer!

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