Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers Recipe

If you are craving a dish bursting with bold flavors, irresistible char, and a perfect balance of sweet and savory, then these Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers are exactly what you need in your recipe collection. Juicy chicken pieces marinated in a luscious teriyaki and sesame oil blend, threaded alongside colorful bell peppers and red onion, and grilled to smoky perfection create a vibrant, satisfying meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. This recipe truly shines whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a lively backyard barbecue, or just treating yourself to something special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but mighty, each one playing a vital role in layering flavor and texture in your Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers. From the rich, umami-packed teriyaki sauce to the fragrant sesame oil, these essentials come together effortlessly for maximum taste.

• ½ cup Kikkoman® Teriyaki Takumi, Korean BBQ: This sweet and savory sauce forms the flavorful backbone of the marinade, delivering that signature teriyaki goodness.
• 1 tablespoon Kikkoman® Sesame Oil: Adds a toasty, nutty depth that elevates the marinade beyond the ordinary.
• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for juiciness or breasts for leaner meat, cut into 1½-inch pieces for the perfect bite.
• Wooden or metal skewers: Essential for grilling, wooden skewers soak up marinade while metal ones distribute heat evenly.
• 2 small bell peppers: Cut into 1½-inch pieces; their sweetness and crunch add vibrant color and texture alongside the chicken.
• 1 medium red onion: Cut into wedges to bring a mild, caramelizing sweetness that complements the savory chicken.
• Sesame seeds for garnish: Toasted seeds sprinkled on top give a lovely finishing crunch and visual appeal.

How to Make Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together the teriyaki sauce with sesame oil in a medium bowl to create that irresistible marinade. Reserve two tablespoons of this mixture—you’ll want it for brushing the skewers later. Toss your chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring each chunk is fully coated. Cover and let the flavors soak in for at least an hour in the fridge or up to eight hours if you plan ahead. This step is where your chicken soaks up all the sweet and savory goodness that defines these skewers.

Step 2: Prepare the Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before assembling. This simple move prevents them from burning on the grill. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with colorful bell pepper chunks and red onion wedges. The layering keeps each bite exciting and helps balance the meatiness with fresh, crisp veggies.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Heat your grill to medium-high, and lay the skewers down onto the grates. Grill them for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning every few minutes so each side gets beautifully charred and the chicken cooks evenly through. During the last few minutes, brush the skewers with the reserved marinade to intensify that glossy, saucy finish. Once cooked, the meat should be tender, juicy, and irresistibly caramelized right on the surface.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Carefully remove your skewers from the grill and sprinkle them generously with sesame seeds. This simple garnish not only looks gorgeous but adds a subtle crunch that will keep you reaching for more.

How to Serve Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers

Garnishes

While the sesame seeds are classic, feel free to add thinly sliced green onions for a fresh pop of color and taste. A light sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also bring a gentle heat that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the teriyaki glaze.

Side Dishes

These skewers pair wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice to soak up any extra sauce. For a refreshing balance, throw together an Asian-inspired slaw with crunchy cabbage, carrots, and a zingy lime dressing. Roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus or snap peas also make fantastic companions, giving you a vibrant plate full of textures.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, serve these Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers over a bed of mixed greens drizzled with a citrus soy dressing for a light and elegant entrée. Alternatively, you can slide the chicken and veggies off the skewers and toss everything into a warm wrap with crunchy slaw and a drizzle of creamy mayo for a handheld delight perfect for casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to three days. The chicken retains its delicious marinade flavor even when chilled, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Freezing

If you want to save a batch for later, remove the chicken and vegetables from the skewers and freeze them separately in freezer-safe bags. This way, you can reheat evenly without the skewers getting soggy or burnt. Frozen cooked chicken keeps well for up to two months.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the skewers on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) wrapped in foil to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving as this tends to dry out the chicken and veggies.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work perfectly and offer a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook them, as breasts can dry out more quickly than thighs.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

While sesame oil gives a unique nutty flavor, you can substitute with a mild olive oil or avocado oil if needed. Adding a little toasted sesame seeds can help mimic that taste.

Can I grill these skewers indoors?

Yes! Using a grill pan or broiler works wonderfully. Just watch carefully to avoid burning and turn often for even cooking.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate anywhere from 1 hour up to 8 hours. Longer marinating time will intensify the flavors, but even a short soak will yield delicious results.

Are these skewers spicy?

They are mild and wonderfully sweet with a hint of smokiness. If you love spice, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade or serving with a spicy dipping sauce.

Final Thoughts

These Teriyaki Sesame Grilled Chicken Skewers have a way of bringing joy to every meal with their irresistible combination of flavors and inviting grill marks. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a kitchen newbie, this simple yet impressive recipe promises a tasty adventure every time you make it. Give them a try soon—you’ll understand why they’ve become one of my favorite go-to dishes to share with friends and family.

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