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Delicious honey garlic chicken skewers grilled to perfection with a sweet glaze.

Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Tender, juicy chicken skewers marinated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 275
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1/4 cup honey (pure, not honey-flavored syrup) Opt for local honey for a unique flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium if preferred) Consider tamari for gluten-free.
  • 4 cloves garlic (freshly minced) Fresh garlic provides a stronger taste.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar For acidity and balance.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil Adds a nutty flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger For warmth and spice.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground) Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Use for heat if desired.
For the Skewers
  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1.5-inch cubes) Offers juiciness ideal for grilling.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided) For marinade and grilling.
  • 2 green onions (thinly sliced, for garnish) Adds freshness.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish) For visual appeal.
  • 8-10 pieces wooden or metal skewers Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut chicken thighs into uniform 1.5-inch cubes, removing any excess fat.
  2. Whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, 1 tablespoon olive oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a medium bowl until the honey fully dissolves.
  3. Add chicken cubes to the marinade, tossing to coat every piece. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours.
  4. Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Thread 5-6 pieces onto each skewer, leaving small gaps between pieces.
Cooking
  1. For grilling: Preheat to medium-high heat (400°F) and oil the grates. For baking: Preheat to 425°F and line a baking sheet with foil, placing a wire rack on top.
  2. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
  3. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush skewers with reserved fresh marinade.
  4. Remove skewers from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least an hour but no more than two hours. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through.