Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion! These skewers feature sticky sweet and savory chicken that is so easy to prepare that you’ll want to make them again and again. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or serving appetizers at a party, these honey sesame chicken skewers are sure to impress. Their unique combination of flavors makes them a standout dish that will have everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Irresistible Flavor: The mix of honey, soy sauce, and spices creates a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve these skewers as an appetizer, main course, or even in salads for added protein.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking on skewers means less mess in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for gatherings, these skewers are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process and ensure perfect results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bamboo skewers
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Bamboo skewers: These are crucial for holding the chicken pieces together while they cook evenly on the grill.
- Grill or grill pan: A good grill ensures that the chicken gets that desirable char while locking in juices.
- Mixing bowl: This allows you to effectively combine all marinade ingredients with the chicken for maximum flavor.
- Basting brush: Useful for brushing oil on the skewers while grilling, ensuring they don’t stick.
Ingredients
Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers – sticky sweet and savory chicken on skewers. So easy to make, so delicious that you won’t stop eating.
For the Chicken
- 8 oz (230g) chicken thigh and leg meat (dark meat, cut into small pieces)
- oil (for brushing)
For the Marinade
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon Chinese rice apple vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon five spice powder
- 3 dashes white pepper
- 1/2 tablespoon honey
For Garnish
- white sesame seeds
- scallion (sliced into small pieces)
How to Make Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold water. Cut it into small pieces and pat dry with paper towels. Soak bamboo skewers in water for about 30 minutes before using to prevent burning on the grill.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine all marinade ingredients: soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, rice apple vinegar, five spice powder, white pepper, and honey. Add the chicken pieces to this mixture and allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes. Ensure each piece is well-coated.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Thread 3-4 pieces of marinated chicken onto each soaked bamboo skewer. Make sure they are evenly spaced but not too tightly packed to allow even cooking.
Step 4: Preheat Your Grill
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot. Brush some oil on both sides of each skewer to prevent sticking during cooking.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Place the chicken skewers on the hot grill. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked through and slightly charred. Use a basting brush to apply oil while grilling for additional moisture.
Step 6: Serve
Once cooked, remove from heat and sprinkle with white sesame seeds and chopped scallions. Serve warm for maximum flavor enjoyment!
How to Serve Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers
Serving Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers is a delightful experience. These skewers are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways, enhancing your dining experience.
As an Appetizer
- Small Bites: Serve the skewers as bite-sized appetizers at your next gathering, perfect for guests to enjoy with their drinks.
- Dipping Sauces: Accompany with soy sauce or sweet chili sauce for added flavor.
Over Rice
- Steamed Rice: Place skewers over a bed of fluffy steamed rice to soak up the delicious flavors.
- Fried Rice: Pair with fried rice for a heartier meal that blends textures and tastes.
On a Salad
- Garden Salad: Slice the grilled chicken skewers and add them on top of a fresh garden salad for a nutritious lunch.
- Asian Slaw: Combine with an Asian-style slaw for a crunchy and refreshing side.
In Wraps
- Lettuce Wraps: Roll the chicken skewers in lettuce leaves with veggies for a low-carb option.
- Tortilla Wraps: Use tortillas to create wraps, adding some avocado or spicy mayo for extra zest.
How to Perfect Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers
To achieve the perfect Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers, focus on these essential tips that will elevate your dish.
- Marinate Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken is marinated long enough so that it absorbs all the flavors from the marinade.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh scallions and quality sesame seeds make a significant difference in taste and presentation.
- Pre-soak Skewers: Soaking bamboo skewers prevents burning while grilling; aim for at least 30 minutes.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Grill until slightly charred but not dry; this helps maintain juiciness in the chicken.
- Brush with Oil: Brushing oil on both sides of the skewers keeps them moist and adds richness to the flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers
Pairing side dishes with Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers can enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Steamed Broccoli: A light, healthy vegetable that complements the sweetness of the chicken.
- Coconut Rice: This aromatic rice adds a tropical twist and balances out savory flavors beautifully.
- Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies provide a nice contrast to sweet flavors and add crunch.
- Sesame Noodles: Tossed in sesame oil, these noodles make for a flavorful accompaniment that echoes the main dish’s theme.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled alongside give a smoky touch that pairs well with chicken.
- Egg Fried Rice: A classic side that is filling and flavorful, perfect for soaking up any sauce left on your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Skipping the Marinade: Many people think they can skip marinating the chicken for a quick meal. Marinating is crucial as it infuses the chicken with flavor and tenderness. Make sure to let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Using the Wrong Cut of Chicken: Using chicken breast instead of thigh and leg meat can lead to dry skewers. Dark meat is juicier and more flavorful, so stick with thigh and leg cuts for the best results.
Not Soaking Skewers: If you forget to soak bamboo skewers, they may burn on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent this issue.
Overcrowding the Skewers: Piling too many pieces of chicken on each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for 3-4 pieces per skewer for optimal grilling and even heat distribution.
Skipping the Sesame Seeds: Some might think sesame seeds are optional, but they add crunch and flavor. Don’t skip this step; sprinkle them generously on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers
- If you want to store them longer, freeze the skewers in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Ensure you label the bag with the date.
Reheating Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, being cautious not to overcook.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook the skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I serve with Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers?
You can serve these skewers with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes! You can easily substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variation in flavors while maintaining a similar marinade approach.
How do I make Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers spicy?
To add some heat, consider incorporating chili flakes or sriracha into your marinade before soaking the chicken.
Can I grill these skewers indoors?
Absolutely! You can use a grill pan or an indoor electric grill if outdoor grilling isn’t an option.
Final Thoughts
Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. These sticky sweet treats are perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to backyard barbecues. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; you’ll find it hard to resist going back for more!
Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers
Honey Sesame Chicken Skewers are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. These skewers feature tender pieces of chicken coated in a rich honey-soy marinade that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners, backyard barbecues, or as crowd-pleasing appetizers at parties, these skewers are sure to impress your family and friends. With their irresistible taste and versatile serving options, they’re a must-try recipe that you’ll want to prepare time and again.
- Total Time: 44 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 2 people (4 skewers total) 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz chicken thigh and leg meat (cut into small pieces)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon Chinese rice apple vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon five spice powder
- 3 dashes white pepper
- 1/2 tablespoon honey
- Oil (for brushing)
- White sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Scallions (sliced for garnish)
Instructions
- Rinse the chicken under cold water, cut into small pieces, and pat dry. Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, rice apple vinegar, five spice powder, white pepper, and honey. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Thread 3-4 pieces of marinated chicken onto each soaked skewer.
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and brush skewers with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill skewers for about 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through and slightly charred.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions, then serve warm.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers (approx. 120g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the chicken longer if possible. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.