Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are a simple, tasty treat that brings together the sweet flavor of honey with the bold kick of garlic. Tender chicken pieces marinated in this tasty combo get grilled to juicy perfection on skewers, making them perfect for a casual dinner or weekend cookout.
I love making these because they’re quick to prepare and the honey-garlic sauce always gets everyone asking for seconds. A little tip I’ve found helpful is to let the chicken marinate for at least an hour if you have time, which really helps the flavors soak in well.
These skewers are great served with a side of rice or fresh salad, and they’re also perfect for snacking at parties since they’re easy to grab and eat without fuss. Whenever I make these, they bring a happy buzz to the table that makes mealtime feel extra cozy and fun.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender on the grill. If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts work fine too—just watch the grilling time so it doesn’t dry out.
Honey: Honey adds lovely sweetness to balance the garlic and soy sauce. Maple syrup or agave syrup can be great alternatives if you want a different kind of natural sweetness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really gives these skewers a punch. Garlic powder could be used in a pinch, but fresh minced garlic delivers the best flavor and aroma.
Soy Sauce: This salty umami base ties the marinade together. If you need gluten-free, try tamari or coconut aminos instead. They offer similar flavor without the wheat.
Vinegar: Rice vinegar is mild and brightens the flavor nicely. Apple cider vinegar works too and adds a tiny fruity tang.
Red Bell Pepper: Adding bell peppers makes the skewers colorful and adds a subtle sweetness. You can swap with other veggies like zucchini, onions, or cherry tomatoes based on your preference.
How Do I Get the Chicken Juicy and Caramelized on the Grill?
The key is marinating and grilling with care. Here’s what I always do:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in. Longer (1-2 hours) is better for juiciness.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high so it’s hot but not too intense to burn the outside before inside cooks.
- Use oil on the grill grates or chicken to prevent sticking.
- Grill the skewers turning every 4-5 minutes. This even cooking helps caramelize the honey without charred bitterness.
- Baste the chicken with leftover marinade (never the raw one) during grilling for extra moisture and flavor.
- Watch carefully—overcooking dries out the chicken. It’s done when the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
With these tips, your chicken will come out tender, juicy, and perfectly flavored every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – I like using a grill for those nice char marks and smoky flavor.
- Wooden skewers – Soaked in water for 30 minutes, to prevent burning on the grill.
- Medium mixing bowl – To whisk together the marinade ingredients.
- Basting brush or spoon – For applying extra marinade during grilling.
- Tongs – For turning and removing the skewers easily.
- Meat thermometer – To check that the chicken is cooked to 165°F for safety and juiciness.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken with shrimp or beef strips for different protein options that cook quickly and taste great with the honey garlic sauce.
- Add a splash of sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Stir in chopped green onions or cilantro after cooking for fresh flavor.
- Mix in sliced pineapple or other fruits with the chicken for a sweet and savory combo on skewers.
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks (optional, for skewering with chicken)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped for garnish
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade and chicken, plus 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to marinate. Grilling the skewers takes around 10-12 minutes. Overall, you’ll need about 50 minutes to 2 hours total, depending on how long you marinate.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, olive oil, grated ginger (if using), salt, and pepper until it’s well combined and smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have extra time, marinate for 1 to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Prepare the Skewers & Grill:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the wooden skewers, alternating with red bell pepper chunks if you like.
Lightly oil your grill grates to keep the chicken from sticking. Grill the skewers for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning occasionally. Baste the skewers with some of the leftover marinade as they cook to add extra moisture and flavor. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
4. Serve and Garnish:
When the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks, remove the skewers from the heat and transfer them to a serving plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve right away with sides like steamed rice, salad, or grilled veggies.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Skewers?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken first. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place the sealed chicken in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat the pieces dry before marinating to avoid extra moisture.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for even more flavor. Assemble the skewers just before grilling, or prepare them ahead and refrigerate covered for a few hours.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the grill or in the oven to keep them from drying out.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with steamed rice, a fresh green salad, grilled vegetables, or even a light noodle dish to soak up the flavorful sauce.
