These Easy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are a fun way to enjoy juicy chicken with a sweet and tangy glaze. Toss in colorful veggies for a tasty barbecue treat!
Grilling these kabobs is a breeze, and you can impress your friends without breaking a sweat. I like to serve them with rice—so yummy! Plus, they look great on a plate! 🍗🥕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are perfect for kabobs as they remain tender when grilled. If you’re looking for something different, try using boneless thighs for a juicier bite.
Teriyaki Sauce: This adds sweetness and flavor. You can make your own by mixing soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Alternatively, if you want a lower-sodium option, look for low-sodium teriyaki sauce.
Bell Pepper: I love red bell peppers for their sweetness, but feel free to use green for a crunchier taste or any color you prefer. Zucchini or cherry tomatoes can be good substitutes too!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is fantastic for its juiciness. Canned pineapple works in a pinch, but drain it well to prevent excess moisture. Other fruits like mango or peach can also add a delightful twist!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Kabobs Are Juicy and Tender?
To keep your chicken kabobs tender, marinating is key. Marinade helps to break down proteins and adds flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the chicken with teriyaki sauce and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you can, go for 2 hours to deepen the flavor.
- Soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning, about 30 minutes before grilling.
- Make sure to turn the kabobs frequently while grilling to avoid overcooking on one side.
Check that the chicken reaches 165°F for safety but avoid cooking it too long to keep it juicy. Enjoy your delicious kabobs!
Easy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 small red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep (not including marination time) and 10-12 minutes for grilling. If you allow the chicken to marinate, it’s best to plan for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours in the refrigerator for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, take your chicken cubes and mix them with 1/2 cup of teriyaki sauce. Make sure all the pieces are coated well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—or for a richer flavor, let it sit for up to 2 hours.
2. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This helps them not to burn. While you wait, preheat your grill to medium-high heat so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to cook.
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to assemble. Take the skewers and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them, alternating with the bell pepper, red onion, and fresh pineapple for a colorful and tasty treat!
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Carefully place your skewers on the preheated grill. Cook the kabobs for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. Be sure to brush them with more teriyaki sauce as they grill. You know they’re done when the chicken is fully cooked and reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve:
Once the kabobs are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top, and add your sliced green onions for that fresh touch. They’re now ready to be served!
6. Enjoy:
Serve your delicious kabobs alongside your favorite side dishes, like rice or a fresh salad. Sit back, enjoy, and relish the yummy flavors of your Easy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs!
Can I Use Different Vegetables for the Kabobs?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. Just make sure they are cut to a similar size as the chicken for even cooking. If the veggies take longer to grill, you can pre-cook them lightly in the microwave for a minute or two before assembling.
What If I Don’t Have Teriyaki Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute using soy sauce, a little brown sugar or honey, and garlic or ginger. Mix these ingredients and use them in place of teriyaki sauce. Adjust the sweetness to your taste!
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave on a plate or reheat on the grill for a few minutes until warmed through. This will help revive some of the original flavor and texture!
Can I Make the Kabobs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the kabobs in advance! Assemble them and store in the fridge for up to a day before grilling. Just remember to keep them covered and ideally, marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor!
