Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers

There’s something magical about the sizzle of chicken hitting a hot grill, the sweet and savory aroma of teriyaki sauce caramelizing, and the nutty finish of toasted sesame seeds. It’s a sensory experience that turns a simple weeknight dinner into a small event. My love for these Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers began not in a fancy restaurant, but at a bustling neighborhood potluck. A friend brought a platter of them, and they were gone in minutes—the perfect combination of sticky, glossy, and utterly irresistible. I knew right then I needed to recreate that magic at home, and after countless tests, I’ve landed on what I believe is the ultimate easy recipe. This version is incredibly straightforward, using a homemade teriyaki marinade that comes together in minutes and clings to every piece of tender chicken. It’s the kind of Quick Asian Chicken Dinner that feels special enough for guests but is simple enough for a busy Tuesday. Let’s fire up the grill.

Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers Ingredients

Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers start with a handful of simple, flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the marinade and skewers.

For the Homemade Teriyaki Marinade:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Skewers:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes beforehand)

Teriyaki Chicken Skewer Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes to 4 hours marinating)
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour (mostly hands-off)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers

Making these skewers is a simple process of marinating, threading, and grilling. Follow these steps for perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Marinade

In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. In a separate small bowl, create a slurry by whisking the water and cornstarch until smooth. Bring the soy sauce mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool for 10 minutes. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the sauce in a separate bowl for brushing during grilling.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the cubed chicken in a large bowl or a zip-top bag. Pour the slightly cooled teriyaki marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for best results, up to 4 hours. Marinating is key for infusing the chicken with that deep, savory-sweet flavor.

Step 3: Thread the Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking. Don’t pack them too tightly.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F). Lightly oil the grates. Place the Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes, then flip. Brush the tops with the reserved teriyaki sauce. Cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks and a sticky, caramelized glaze. If you love the skewer format, you’ll also adore our Pineapple Chicken Kabobs for another sweet and savory option.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Nutritional Information for Teriyaki Chicken

This information is per serving (assuming two skewers). This dish is a great source of lean protein.

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 12g

Equipment Needed for Grilled Chicken Skewers

You don’t need any fancy tools for this recipe. Here’s the short list:

• Grill (gas or charcoal) or grill pan
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why You’ll Love This Easy Grilled Chicken Recipe

This recipe has become a staple in my home for so many reasons, and I think it will in yours, too.

• Incredibly Flavorful: The homemade teriyaki glaze is far superior to any store-bought version.
• Surprisingly Simple: With minimal prep and a straightforward process, it’s a stress-free meal.
• Crowd-Pleasing: These skewers are always a hit with both adults and kids.
• Versatile: Perfect for a weeknight dinner, weekend BBQ, or meal prep for the week ahead.
• Healthy: Packed with protein and made with wholesome ingredients.

Healthier Alternatives for Your Chicken Skewer Meal Prep

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a perfect Gluten Free Teriyaki Chicken.
• Lower Sugar: Swap the honey for a sugar-free maple syrup or reduce the amount to your taste.
• Paleo: Use coconut aminos and replace the honey with a compliant sweetener.
• Add Veggies: Thread bell peppers, onions, or zucchini between the chicken pieces for extra nutrients and color.

Serving Suggestions for Your Asian Chicken Dinner

These skewers are a complete meal on their own, but they pair beautifully with a variety of sides.

• With Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or brown rice to soak up the extra sauce.
• Salad: A simple cucumber salad or a side of steamed broccoli balances the richness.
• Noodles: They’re fantastic with cold sesame noodles or soba noodles.
• Other Grilled Favorites: Pair them with other grilled mains like our Grilled Citrus Chicken with Glaze for a summer feast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Chicken Kabobs

A few small missteps can make a big difference. Here’s how to avoid them.

1. Skipping the Skewer Soak: If you use wooden skewers and forget to soak them, they will burn on the grill. It’s a simple step that is absolutely essential.
2. Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing the chicken too tightly means the centers won’t cook as evenly. Give each piece a little breathing room.
3. Grilling on Too High Heat: This will cause the sugar in the marinade to burn before the chicken is cooked through. A consistent medium-high heat is your friend.
4. Brushing with Sauce Too Early: Only brush on the extra glaze during the last few minutes of cooking. If you do it too early, it will drip and cause flare-ups.

Storing Tips for Your Best Grilled Chicken Kabobs

This recipe is fantastic for making ahead and enjoying later.

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cooked skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked and cooled skewers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. The microwave can make the chicken rubbery, so it’s not the best option.
• Marinate Ahead: You can marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, making your dinner prep incredibly fast. If you enjoy prepping proteins, our Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are another great make-ahead option.

The Ultimate Easy Teriyaki Chicken Skewer Conclusion

These Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers truly are the ultimate easy recipe. They deliver massive flavor with minimal effort, proving that you don’t need complicated techniques to create a meal that feels special. The sticky, savory-sweet glaze, the tender chicken, and the nutty crunch of sesame seeds create a combination that is simply hard to beat. It’s a reliable recipe that works for a casual family dinner or for impressing friends at your next backyard gathering. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine.

I’d love to hear how your Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers turn out! Leave a comment below and share your experience. Don’t forget to tag @Stacksipsnack on Pinterest so I can see your beautiful creations. Happy grilling

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