Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Name: Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 small red onion, cut into wedges; 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds; Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Highlighted under: Summer BBQ | Grill Party

When I first tried making grilled teriyaki chicken skewers, I was skeptical about how the flavors would meld together on the grill. The sweetness of the teriyaki sauce combined with the smokiness from the grill creates a delicious interplay that is simply mesmerizing. The juicy, tender chicken paired with fresh vegetables on a skewer is a feast for the eyes and the palate. Each bite is a celebration of flavor, and I can’t wait to share my tips for ensuring they turn out perfectly every time!

Created by

The Cheforlandocooks Team

Last updated on 2026-02-12T09:22:18.109Z

Every time I prepare these skewers, I am reminded of a summer barbecue filled with laughter and good vibes. The marinade is crucial—letting the chicken soak in that teriyaki goodness for at least 30 minutes ensures that each piece is bursting with flavor. I've experimented with both grilled vegetables and fruits on the skewers, and they add a delightful twist that’s always a hit with my friends!

The trick is to keep the grill at medium-high heat to get those lovely char marks without overcooking the chicken. I also like to brush a bit of extra teriyaki sauce on during the last few minutes of grilling for that sticky glaze. It really does make all the difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Sweet and savory teriyaki flavor that's incredibly addictive.
Perfectly grilled chicken that’s juicy and tender.
Versatile for any summer gathering or weeknight dinner.

Marinating Tips for Maximum Flavor

Marinating your chicken in teriyaki sauce and sesame oil is crucial for infusing flavor. Aim to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for an even deeper taste, consider up to 4 hours. The longer the chicken sits, the more robust the teriyaki flavor will be. The sugar in the teriyaki sauce also helps tenderize the chicken, creating a juicy texture that’s irresistible once grilled. Just be cautious not to overshoot the marinating time, as overly long marination can lead to mushy chicken due to the acidic content in some sauces.

For a twist, experiment by adding a splash of pineapple juice or a tablespoon of brown sugar to your marinade. These not only enhance the sweetness but also contribute to a caramelized finish on the grill. If you're making this for a crowd with varied preferences, you can prepare a second marinade using a soy sauce base but with less sweetness to cater to those who prefer a less sugary profile.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Skewers

Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat, ideally around 375°F to 450°F. This temperature is crucial; too low, and the chicken may end up dry, too high, and you risk burning the exterior before the inside is cooked. When placing the skewers on the grill, make sure to leave space between them to allow for even heat flow. This will help develop those beautiful grill marks and ensure the chicken cooks evenly without any steaming effects.

Keep a close eye on the skewers while grilling and turn them every 4-5 minutes. You want to achieve a lovely char and golden edges on the chicken, which usually takes about 12-15 minutes in total depending on your grill's heat. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure safety. If using wooden skewers, soaking them beforehand prevents them from burning, giving you perfectly grilled skewers without any charred taste.

Ingredients

Chicken Skewers

1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 small red onion, cut into wedges
1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Mix all ingredients well and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine chicken pieces, teriyaki sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Skewer the Ingredients

Thread the marinated chicken, bell pepper, onion, and zucchini onto the skewers. Alternate items for a colorful presentation.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Serve

Remove from the grill and brush with additional teriyaki sauce if desired. Serve hot!

Enjoy your skewers with a side of rice or a fresh salad!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add pineapple chunks to the skewers. They caramelize beautifully on the grill and add a tropical twist!

Serving Suggestions

These grilled teriyaki chicken skewers are incredibly versatile and can be served with various sides. For a fresh complement, try pairing them with a simple cucumber salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, which cuts through the sweetness of the chicken. You could also set up a rice or grain bowl where guests can assemble their own portions with options like fluffy jasmine rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.

For added flair, consider garnishing with sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions just before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but adds a touch of crunch and freshness that beautifully complements the skewers. I also like to serve them with a side of extra teriyaki sauce for dipping; it enhances the flavor and personalizes each bite.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat for best results. This method helps retain the grilled texture without drying them out. You could also use a microwave, but do so with caution, checking every 30 seconds to avoid rubbery chicken.

For meal prep, these skewers can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the marinade in the refrigerator for up to a day before grilling. Just remember, if you're marinating overnight, reduce the amount of sesame oil to keep the flavor balanced. This makes it super convenient for an easy weeknight dinner or a quick summer barbecue.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp or tofu work great with the teriyaki marinade.

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes is ideal, but you can marinate it for up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.

→ What can I serve with teriyaki chicken skewers?

These skewers go well with steamed rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables.

→ Can I make these skewers in the oven?

Yes! You can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes.