Introduction
Discover a delightful blend of flavors with this delicious grilled chicken skewers recipe. Combining sweet and savory elements, these skewers are perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner. The marinade features a harmonious mixture of barbecue and teriyaki sauces, complemented by minced garlic, fresh ginger, and vibrant vegetables. This dish not only showcases the succulent taste of chicken but also incorporates juicy pineapple that adds a refreshing twist.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
⅔ cup barbecue sauce
⅔ cup teriyaki sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1½-inch pieces
1 sweet onion, cut into 1½-inch pieces
2 tablespoons canola oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Prep Time
2 hours (up to overnight)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (or up to 8 hours with marination)
Yield: Serves approximately 4
Enjoy these flavorful grilled chicken skewers at your next gathering, and impress your guests with this easy yet delicious recipe. Perfectly seasoned and beautifully charred, they are sure to become a favorite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Reserve ½ cup of the sauce mixture in a separate bowl and set it aside for later use.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a gallon-size Ziploc bag or a large bowl, combine the remaining sauce mixture with 2 pounds of cut chicken. Mix well to ensure the chicken is fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours, turning the bag occasionally. After marinating, drain the chicken from the marinade.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken, fresh pineapple chunks, red bell pepper pieces, and sweet onion pieces onto skewers. Once assembled, brush the skewers with 2 tablespoons of canola oil and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Preheat the grill to medium heat to prepare for cooking the skewers.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook while turning occasionally until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and has an internal temperature of 165°F, which should take about 10 minutes. During the last 1–2 minutes of cooking, brush the skewers with the reserved sauce mixture for added flavor.
Step 6: Serve the Skewers
Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Marinating Time
For the best flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight if possible.
Alternative Cooking Method
These skewers can also be baked in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes if a grill is not available.
Vegetable Choices
Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables to the skewers, such as zucchini or cherry tomatoes, according to your preference.
Storage
Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or on a grill.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken in the sauce mixture allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, enhancing its taste and tenderness.
Threading Ingredients
When threading chicken and vegetables onto skewers, ensure that they are evenly spaced. This helps them cook uniformly on the grill.
Grilling
Grill the skewers at medium heat, turning them occasionally to promote even cooking. The goal is to achieve a perfectly charred exterior while keeping the chicken moist inside.
Checking Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Brushing with Sauce
Brushing the skewers with the reserved sauce mixture during the last couple of minutes of grilling adds a layer of flavor and a glossy finish.
FAQ
Can I use another type of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 2 hours or as long as overnight (up to 8 hours) for deeper flavor infusion.
What if I don’t have skewers?
If you don’t have skewers, you can grill the chicken and vegetables in a grill basket or on a foil-lined grill pan.
Can I grill the skewers in the oven?
Yes, you can place the skewers on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently before serving.
Conclusion
The combination of barbecue and teriyaki sauces creates a deliciously unique flavor profile that elevates grilled chicken and vegetables. This dish is not only savory and sweet but also offers a wonderful mix of textures, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or family dinners. The addition of fresh pineapple adds a delightful burst of sweetness that complements the savory elements perfectly. Enjoy these skewers hot off the grill for a delightful meal!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Teriyaki Stir-Fry
Use the same marinade for a quick stir-fry. Add your choice of vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, and carrots, sautéing them in a hot skillet until tender.
Pineapple Salsa
Combine fresh pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice for a zesty salsa that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or fish.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Swap out chicken for shrimp, marinating them in the same barbecue-teriyaki mixture and grilling alongside bell peppers and onions for a seafood twist.
Vegetable Skewers
Create a vegetarian option by using a mix of mushrooms, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers, brushed with the marinade before grilling.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Use the cooked chicken from the skewers, add it to a pizza with barbecue sauce, red onions, pineapple, and mozzarella cheese for a delicious fusion pizza.
Teriyaki Chicken Salad
Make a refreshing salad by combining grilled chicken, mixed greens, sliced bell peppers, pineapple, and a drizzle of the reserved sauce for a tasty dressing.
