Juicy chicken pieces marinated in a sweet and savory honey garlic glaze, grilled to perfection for a beautiful charred finish. These irresistible skewers are ideal for summer cookouts, quick weeknight meals, or as part of a festive party spread. With bold flavor and minimal prep, they deliver maximum satisfaction with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers combine the best of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. The marinade is simple to prepare and infuses the chicken with moisture and richness. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a stovetop grill pan, these skewers cook quickly and pair well with a variety of sides. They’re great for entertaining or meal prepping and are easy to customize with your favorite herbs or spice levels.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, olive oil, rice vinegar or lemon juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and chili flakes if using.
2. Add the chicken chunks to the marinade and toss well to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
4. Thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto the skewers.
5. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
6. Grill the chicken skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char on the edges.
7. Transfer the skewers to a serving plate and garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve hot with rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 1 hour (minimum)
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Make it spicier: Add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Use other proteins: Substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef for variety.
• Add vegetables: Alternate the chicken pieces with chunks of bell peppers, onions, or zucchini on the skewers.
• Try different herbs: Add chopped fresh basil or mint for a refreshing twist.
• Use dark soy sauce: For a richer, deeper color and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Wrap skewers in foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.
• Microwave: Remove the chicken from skewers and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
• Skillet: Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water to keep the chicken moist.

Freezing:
You can freeze the raw chicken in the marinade for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, both work well. Thighs are juicier, but breasts cook faster and remain lean.

Do I have to use a grill?

No. You can use a stovetop grill pan, a broiler, or even bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.

Can I reuse the marinade?

No, discard any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken. For extra sauce, set aside some marinade before adding the chicken.

How do I know the chicken is cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear, and the meat should be firm.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed rice, couscous, grilled vegetables, or a crisp cucumber salad make excellent accompaniments.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to grill.

Are these skewers gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make the recipe gluten-free.

Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a lined sheet pan for about 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through.

What type of honey is best?

Any pure honey works well. Clover or wildflower honey adds a light floral sweetness.

How do I keep the skewers from sticking?

Oil the grill grates or pan well and avoid turning the skewers too early—let a good sear form before flipping.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy way to elevate your grilling game. With a perfectly balanced marinade and juicy, tender meat, these skewers are sure to become a go-to favorite for summer dinners, parties, or quick family meals. Serve them hot off the grill and enjoy the simple pleasure of bold, satisfying flavors.

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