Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce
Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce are a delightful dish perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory sauce that elevates the flavors to new heights. Whether served at a barbecue, family dinner, or a cozy night in, these skewers will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Glaze: The honey garlic sauce adds a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor that coats each piece of chicken perfectly.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these skewers as a main dish, in salads, or as an appetizer for gatherings.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean chicken breast and fresh garlic, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors and fun presentation make it an excellent option for kids who might be picky eaters.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bamboo skewers
- Grill or oven
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Bamboo skewers: These are crucial for holding the chicken together while grilling. Soaking them prevents burning on the grill.
- Grill or oven: Provides the heat needed to cook the chicken evenly, giving it that perfect grilled flavor.
- Small saucepan: Used to create the delicious honey garlic sauce that enhances the dish.
Ingredients
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, or if using an oven, 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 cube to allow even cooking.
Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt the butter.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Whisk in the honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
4. Bring this mixture to a simmer.
5. Dissolve the cornstarch in 60ml of water; stir into the sauce.
6. Continue cooking until thickened (about 2-3 minutes), then remove from heat.
With these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce in no time!
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. You can serve them in various ways to enhance your meal experience.
On a Bed of Rice
- Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice absorbs the sauce beautifully, creating a perfect balance.
- Brown Rice: A healthier alternative, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and texture.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar add crunch and brightness.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus complements the sweetness of the sauce.
In Lettuce Wraps
- Butter Lettuce: Wrap the skewers in butter lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option.
- Romaine Hearts: Crisp romaine hearts add extra crunch and make for an easy-to-eat dish.
For Dipping
- Extra Honey Garlic Sauce: Serve additional sauce for guests who love extra flavor.
- Peanut Sauce: A creamy peanut sauce adds richness that pairs well with chicken.
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, follow these helpful tips.
- Marinate the Chicken: Marinating chicken cubes in soy sauce for at least an hour enhances flavor.
- Soak Skewers: Soaking bamboo skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Space chicken pieces on skewers to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Baste While Cooking: Brush skewers with honey garlic sauce while grilling for added flavor.
- Let Rest Before Serving: Allow skewers to rest for a few minutes before serving to keep them juicy.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and is a great source of nutrients.
- Fried Rice: A classic choice, fried rice brings additional flavors and textures to your plate.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet skewers.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs wonderfully with barbecue flavors; try brushing it with lime butter!
- Edamame: These protein-packed soybeans are not only healthy but also fun to eat as finger food.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup complements the meal’s flavors while adding warmth.
- Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles cut through the richness of the dish, enhancing overall taste.
- Quinoa Salad: Nutritious quinoa mixed with vegetables makes for a hearty, wholesome side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking bamboo skewers can lead to burning. Always soak them for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- Overcrowding the Skewers: Placing too many pieces of chicken too close together can prevent even cooking. Leave a little space between each piece.
- Ignoring the Marinade Time: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Allow at least 30 minutes for the chicken to absorb the sauce.
- Not Checking Grill Temperature: Cooking on a grill that’s too hot or too cold can affect cooking times. Preheat your grill correctly for best results.
- Rushing the Sauce: Trying to thicken the sauce too quickly can result in an uneven texture. Allow it time to simmer and thicken properly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure they cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce
- Freeze cooked skewers in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce:
Can I use other meats?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu for different flavors.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce in the recipe.
What should I serve with these skewers?
Pair them with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when properly sealed.
Final Thoughts
Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce offer a delightful balance of flavors and are versatile enough to suit any occasion. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness of the sauce. Enjoy this comforting dish at your next family gathering or cozy dinner night!
Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Easy Grilled Asian Chicken Skewers with Honey Garlic Sauce are a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their mealtime experience. This delightful dish features tender chicken marinated in a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Thread the chicken cubes onto soaked bamboo skewers, leaving space between each piece.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Whisk in honey, apple cider 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).
- Brush skewers with honey garlic sauce while grilling until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), about 10-15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
