Name: Grilled Sesame Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: ¼ cup soy sauce; ¼ cup water; ¼ cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon minced ginger; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper; 2 pounds chicken breast, cubed (1-inch pieces); ¼ cup soy sauce; ¼ cup water; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (slurry); 2 tablespoons sliced scallions; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

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There’s something about skewered food that makes it instantly more fun to eat—especially when it’s packed with bold flavors like these Grilled Sesame Chicken Skewers. Juicy, marinated chicken is threaded onto skewers and grilled to smoky perfection, then finished with a drizzle of sesame goodness. It’s simple, satisfying, and downright delicious!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredible Flavor

The sesame-soy marinade infuses every bite with rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.

Juicy & Tender

Marinating the chicken keeps it extra moist and flavorful.

Quick & Easy

Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this a weeknight-friendly recipe.

Perfect for Grilling Season

Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or an indoor grill pan, these skewers are a hit.

Versatile

Enjoy them over rice, in wraps, or with a fresh salad.

Ingredients

Here’s what makes these skewers so irresistible:

Chicken Breast or Thighs

Lean, tender, and perfect for soaking up the marinade.

Soy Sauce

Adds a deep umami flavor.

Sesame Oil

Brings a rich, nutty aroma that enhances the dish.

Honey

A touch of natural sweetness balances out the savory elements.

Garlic & Ginger

Essential aromatics that give the chicken bold, fresh flavor.

Rice Vinegar

Adds a subtle tanginess to brighten the marinade.

Sesame Seeds

Toasted sesame seeds add crunch and extra nutty flavor.

Green Onions

Fresh and mild, perfect for garnish.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes and toss them in the marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

How to Serve Grilled Sesame Chicken Skewers

With Rice: Serve over jasmine or brown rice with extra marinade on the side.
In a Wrap: Toss into a warm pita with crunchy veggies and a drizzle of yogurt sauce.
With a Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp cucumber or Asian slaw.
As an Appetizer: Serve with a dipping sauce like peanut sauce or spicy mayo.

Additional Tips

Use Metal or Soaked Wooden Skewers

Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Don’t Overcrowd the Grill

Give each skewer enough space for even cooking.

Want More Char?

Let the chicken sit undisturbed for a minute before flipping for nice grill marks.

Make It Spicy

Add sriracha or chili flakes for extra heat.

Meal Prep Friendly

Marinate ahead of time and grill when ready.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q2: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and work great in this recipe.

Q3: What’s the best way to get crispy edges?

Brush the chicken with a little extra sesame oil before grilling.

Q4: Can I make this without skewers?

Yes! Simply grill the chicken pieces directly in a pan or on the grill.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q6: Can I freeze marinated chicken?

Yes! Freeze raw marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw before grilling.

Q7: What dipping sauces go well with this?

Try spicy mayo, peanut sauce, or a simple soy-honey glaze.

Q8: Can I add veggies to the skewers?

Yes! Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini grill beautifully alongside the chicken.

Q9: How do I prevent chicken from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grill grates or brush the chicken lightly with oil before grilling.

Q10: Can I cook these on a stovetop?

Yes! Use a grill pan over medium-high heat and cook for 4-5 minutes per side.

Final Thoughts

These Grilled Sesame Chicken Skewers are packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any meal. Whether you serve them over rice, in a wrap, or as a party appetizer, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Give them a try and let me know how you serve yours!