Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce
The Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines juicy grilled chicken with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce that stands out at family dinners, barbecues, and casual gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers deliver flavor and satisfaction in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: With just 20 minutes of prep and cooking time, you can serve a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, garlic, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that’s both sweet and savory.
- Versatile Dish: These skewers pair wonderfully with rice, salads, or vegetables, making them great for various meals.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, everyone will love the tender chicken coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Healthy Option: Made with lean chicken breast and wholesome ingredients, this dish provides a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making these skewers, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bamboo skewers
- Grill or oven
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Bamboo skewers: Soaking these in water prevents burning on the grill and helps them hold moisture during cooking.
- Grill or oven: Both options provide high heat that is essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken.
- Small saucepan: This is ideal for preparing the honey garlic sauce evenly without burning the ingredients.
Ingredients
This Honey Garlic Butter Sauce is the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. Ideal for glazing chicken, drizzling over stir-fry, or dipping your favorite appetizers.
For the Chicken Skewers
- 1 pound boneless (skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- 1/4 cup butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
How to Make Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Preheat the Grill/Oven
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using an oven instead, preheat it to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Thread the chicken cubes onto the soaked bamboo skewers. Leave a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt the butter.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Whisk in honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. In a separate bowl, dissolve cornstarch in 60ml of water and stir it into the sauce.
6. Continue cooking until thickened (about 2-3 minutes), then remove from heat.
Now you’re ready to grill those delicious Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce! Enjoy this flavorful dish with your favorite sides!
How to Serve Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce
These Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce are versatile and delicious, making them perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a weeknight dinner, here are some great serving suggestions.
Serve with Rice
- White Rice: Fluffy white rice complements the skewers perfectly and soaks up the savory sauce.
- Fried Rice: Stir-fried vegetables and eggs in rice add flavor and texture to your meal.
Pair with Vegetables
- Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions grilled alongside the chicken add color and nutrition.
- Steamed Broccoli: This simple side enhances the meal’s health benefits and balances the flavors.
Add Dipping Sauces
- Extra Honey Garlic Sauce: Serve this sauce on the side for extra dipping goodness.
- Spicy Sriracha: For those who enjoy a kick, Sriracha adds a spicy contrast to the sweet glaze.
Wrap in Lettuce
- Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with chicken skewers and veggies for a light meal.
How to Perfect Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce
To achieve the best results with your Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose Quality Chicken: Fresh, high-quality chicken breasts will yield juicier skewers. Look for organic or free-range options when possible.
- Soak Bamboo Skewers: Soaking prevents the skewers from burning on the grill. Aim for at least 30 minutes before use.
- Marinate Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in some of the honey garlic sauce for at least 30 minutes can enhance its flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leaving space between chicken pieces ensures even cooking and better caramelization.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Let Rest: Allowing the skewers to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain juices before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce
Completing your meal with tasty side dishes elevates your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that pair well with your grilled chicken skewers.
- Coconut Rice: This creamy rice dish is infused with coconut milk, adding a subtle sweetness that complements the savory chicken.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the warm skewers.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers healthy nutrition.
- Garlic Noodles: Flavorful noodles tossed in garlic butter make for a satisfying carb that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds umami richness and balances out the meal’s flavors without being heavy.
- Pickled Vegetables: Quick pickled cucumbers or radishes provide tanginess that cuts through the sweetness of the honey garlic sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoiding these mistakes can ensure a delicious and successful dish.
- Overcrowding the Skewers: Placing too many chicken pieces on each skewer can prevent even cooking. Leave space between each piece for proper heat circulation.
- Ignoring Soaking Time: Not soaking the bamboo skewers can lead to burning. Always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- Skipping Marination: Failing to marinate the chicken can result in bland flavors. Allow the chicken to soak in the honey garlic sauce for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for more flavor.
- Using High Heat Only: Cooking on too high heat can char the outside while leaving the inside raw. Stick to medium-high heat for a perfectly cooked skewer.
- Not Monitoring Cooking Time: Overcooking can dry out the chicken. Keep an eye on your skewers and remove them once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce
- Place cooled skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake skewers for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Cover skewers with a damp paper towel and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for different flavors and textures.
How do I make the sauce spicier?
To add spice to the honey garlic sauce, incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha according to your taste preference.
What should I serve with Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce?
These skewers pair nicely with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative!
Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the skewers and marinate them in advance, then grill right before serving.
Final Thoughts
Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce are a delightful addition to any meal. Their blend of sweet and savory flavors makes them perfect for gatherings or quick dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize them by adding vegetables or adjusting spices according to your preferences!
Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce offer a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors that are perfect for any occasion. These skewers feature tender, juicy chicken marinated in a delectable honey garlic sauce, making them an ideal choice for barbecues, family dinners, or quick weeknight meals. With just 20 minutes of prep and cooking time, you can whip up this flavorful dish that’s sure to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings. Serve these skewers with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Bamboo skewers (soaked)
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (or oven to 400°F).
- Thread chicken cubes onto soaked bamboo skewers, leaving space between each piece.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Whisk in honey, vinegar, soy sauce, and brown sugar; bring to a simmer.
- Dissolve cornstarch in water and stir into the sauce; cook until thickened (2-3 minutes).
- Grill skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
