Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are a savory-sweet grilled favorite perfect for cookouts, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. Juicy chicken chunks are marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic, honey, soy sauce, and a hint of sesame, then grilled to perfection. The sticky glaze caramelizes beautifully, delivering a bold, mouthwatering bite every time.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

chicken breasts or thighs (cut into cubes)garlichoneysoy saucesesame oilrice vinegarground black pepperred pepper flakes (optional)green onions (for garnish)wooden or metal skewers

directions

Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes if using.

In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2–4 hours for deeper flavor.

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.

Grill the skewers for 4–5 minutes per side, basting with reserved marinade or glaze as they cook, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char.

Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.

Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesMarinating time: 30 minutes to 4 hoursGrilling time: 10 minutesTotal time: 55 minutes to 4 hours 25 minutes

Variations

Add bell peppers, onions, or pineapple chunks to the skewers for extra flavor and color.

Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier result.

Swap soy sauce for tamari to make it gluten-free.

Add fresh ginger to the marinade for added warmth and complexity.

Brush with extra honey during the last minute of grilling for more caramelization.

storage/reheating

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a microwave or oven until warmed through.For freezing, remove chicken from skewers and freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through.

Can I use store-bought marinade?

You can, but homemade gives better flavor control and freshness.

What kind of skewers are best?

Metal skewers are reusable and don’t need soaking, while wooden skewers are convenient but must be soaked.

Can I prep these ahead of time?

Yes, marinate and assemble the skewers a day ahead, then grill when ready.

Is this recipe spicy?

Only if you add red pepper flakes—adjust to your heat preference.

What sides go well with these skewers?

Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, or a light salad.

Can I cook these on a stovetop?

Yes, use a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.

What’s the best cut of chicken?

Boneless, skinless thighs or breasts both work well—thighs are more tender and flavorful.

Do I need to reserve some marinade?

Yes, if you want to baste during grilling, set aside some before adding raw chicken.

Can I make these in the oven?

Yes, they roast well and still develop great flavor and color.

Conclusion

Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are a delicious, versatile dish that combines bold flavors with ease of preparation. Whether grilled outdoors or cooked indoors, they deliver juicy, caramelized bites that are sure to please. Perfect for gatherings or easy dinners, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.