Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are a simple and tasty dish featuring tender pieces of chicken glazed with a sweet and garlicky sauce. The honey adds a nice touch of sweetness that balances perfectly with the savory garlic, making every bite full of flavor. The skewers are great for grilling or baking, and they look as good as they taste with their nice golden-brown glaze.
I love making these skewers when I want something quick but impressive. They don’t take much time to prepare, and the sauce comes together easily with just a few ingredients. I usually marinate the chicken for a little while to let those flavors sink in, but even a quick soak makes a big difference. It’s a dish that almost everyone seems to enjoy, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a weekend cookout.
One of my favorite ways to serve these skewers is with a side of steamed rice and some fresh veggies. They also work great with a little dipping sauce on the side, just in case you want a bit more of that honey garlic goodness. These skewers bring a happy, comforting vibe to the table, and I always find myself wanting to make them again soon.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and absorb the marinade well. But chicken breasts work fine if you want leaner meat.
Honey: This adds sweetness and helps to caramelize the chicken. If you want a less sweet option, try maple syrup or agave nectar.
Soy Sauce: It gives saltiness and depth. Low sodium soy sauce is great if you’re watching salt intake. Tamari is a good gluten-free choice.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor here. Garlic powder is okay if you don’t have fresh, but it won’t be as vibrant.
Red Bell Pepper: Adds color, crunch, and a bit of sweetness. You can swap it with green or yellow peppers, or even cherry tomatoes for a different taste.
How Do I Get the Perfect Caramelized Glaze Without Burning?
The honey in the marinade can burn quickly because of its sugar, so here’s how to get that lovely glaze without scorch marks:
- Use medium-high heat, not too hot.
- Turn the skewers often to cook evenly and prevent burning.
- Brush extra marinade on the skewers during cooking to keep them moist, but save some for the last minute so it doesn’t burn.
- If grilling outside, watch closely and move skewers away from direct flames if needed.
- If baking, turn halfway through and baste with marinade for shiny, sticky chicken.
Taking your time with this step makes the sauce stick well and gives the chicken that irresistible color and flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Skewers (wooden or metal) – I like wooden ones soaked in water for no splinters or metal for easy reuse.
- Mixing bowl – for whisking the marinade easily.
- Whisk or fork – to combine the marinade ingredients smoothly.
- Grill or oven – a grill gives that smoky flavor, but baking works just as well if you prefer.
- Brush or spoon – to baste the skewers with extra marinade during cooking.
- Serving platter – for a nice display once they’re done.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for different protein options, keeping things vegetarian or pescatarian.
- Add sliced green onions or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some extra kick.
- Mix in pineapple chunks or zucchini slices for more variety and flavor.
- Use lime juice instead of vinegar for a brighter, citrusy twist.
Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional for flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water 30 minutes prior)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, 30 minutes to marinate (you can extend this up to 2 hours for more flavor), and 10-20 minutes to cook depending on your method. Altogether, plan for around 50 minutes to 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, vinegar, sesame oil (if using), salt, and pepper. This mix will be the flavorful base for your chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cut chicken pieces to your marinade, stirring so each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—or up to 2 hours if you have the time—so the chicken absorbs all the tasty flavors.
3. Prepare to Cook:
Preheat your grill to medium-high. If you’re baking instead, heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While heating, if you use wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes to avoid burning.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Thread the chicken pieces and red bell pepper onto the skewers, alternating between them. This helps each bite have a bit of juicy chicken and crunchy pepper.
5. Cook the Skewers:
Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with leftover marinade to keep them moist and tasty. Watch carefully as honey can cause the chicken to brown quickly.
If baking, place the skewers on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway and brushing with marinade for a delicious glaze.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
When cooked, remove the skewers from heat. Sprinkle sesame seeds and freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the top for a fresh, nutty finish.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve these sweet, garlicky skewers warm. They go great with steamed rice, a fresh salad, or your favorite side dish. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Skewers?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cutting and marinating. This helps ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
At least 30 minutes is good for a quick flavor boost, but marinating for 1-2 hours will give the chicken a deeper, more delicious taste. Avoid marinating longer than 4 hours to prevent the texture from getting mushy.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the skewers and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. Just wait to brush them with the marinade until just before grilling or baking to avoid sogginess.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place leftover skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep them tender and flavorful.
