Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

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Juicy, flavorful, and irresistibly sticky, these Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are the kind of meal that gets devoured the second they hit the table. Each bite bursts with a sweet and savory glaze, caramelized over a hot grill or skillet for the perfect char. It’s a dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for weekend gatherings.

The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and honey makes a mouthwatering marinade that turns plain chicken breast into a show-stopping main dish. Whether you’re firing up the grill or using your oven, these skewers deliver big flavor with very little effort.

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Why You’ll Love This Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

This dish strikes the perfect balance between ease and elegance. It requires only a handful of ingredients, most of which are pantry staples. Plus, the skewers make serving easy and fun — especially if you’re entertaining. From picky eaters to flavor seekers, everyone loves the sticky, garlicky glaze.

It’s a fantastic meal prep option too. Marinate the chicken ahead of time, then just cook when you’re ready to eat. Pair it with rice, noodles, or grilled veggies and you’ve got a complete, satisfying meal.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs both work beautifully for this recipe. Chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, while thighs are a bit more forgiving and stay super juicy. Cut the chicken into evenly sized chunks so they cook uniformly on the skewers.

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Ingredients for the Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Each ingredient in this recipe has a specific role, enhancing flavor and texture in the most delicious way:

• Chicken Breast or Thighs: The star of the show — lean protein that soaks up the flavorful marinade.
• Soy Sauce: Adds salty depth and balances the sweetness of the honey.
• Honey: Brings natural sweetness and gives the skewers that irresistible sticky glaze.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic delivers punchy flavor that makes the sauce sing.
• Olive Oil: Helps the marinade cling to the chicken and prevents sticking on the grill.
• Rice Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Adds acidity to balance the sweet and savory notes.
• Ground Black Pepper: Gives just the right amount of mild heat.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and a fresh finishing touch.

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How To Make the Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Make the Marinade

Whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, vinegar (or lemon juice), and black pepper in a large bowl until combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken to the bowl. Toss well to coat all the pieces, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Thread the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20-30 minutes to prevent burning. Then, thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers evenly.

Step 4: Grill or Cook the Skewers

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Drizzle with extra marinade (boiled and reduced until thick) or fresh chopped parsley before serving.

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How to Serve and Store Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

These skewers are best served hot and fresh off the grill, but they also reheat beautifully. One batch serves about 4 people generously.

To store leftovers, place the cooled skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze cooked skewers for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain moisture.

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What to Serve With Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers?

Grilled Vegetables

Zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions pair beautifully with the smoky flavor of the skewers.

Jasmine Rice or Coconut Rice

A fluffy, fragrant base to soak up all that sticky sauce.

Asian Slaw

A crunchy, tangy slaw with sesame dressing adds contrast and freshness.

Noodles with Sesame Oil

Simple sesame noodles or soba noodles make a great side that holds onto the sauce well.

Garlic Green Beans

A crisp and flavorful vegetable side that echoes the garlic in the marinade.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs are juicy and tender, and they hold up well on the grill. They’re especially good if you prefer darker meat.

Can I cook these without a grill?

Yes! You can cook them in a hot skillet, under a broiler, or even in an air fryer. Just make sure to rotate them to get an even char.

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Definitely. The marinade can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Just mix it again before using.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?

Tamari or coconut aminos work great as gluten-free alternatives. They provide similar umami flavor.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook it, and make sure you marinate it for at least 30 minutes. Cooking on medium-high heat and not pressing down on the chicken helps keep it juicy. For more chicken tips, visit our Ultimate Chicken Guide.

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