Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers

Honey garlic grilled chicken skewers are one of those crowd-pleasing meals that always reminds me of backyard barbecues with friends. Tender chicken, a sticky sweet and savory marinade, crisp vegetables and a smoky char from the grill make this recipe crave-worthy and simple enough for weeknights or parties.

When I first made these for a summer potluck, they disappeared before anything else. Every time I fire up the grill and that honey garlic aroma fills the air, it turns an ordinary dinner into something a little special.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: Look for firm pink flesh and trim off any tendons or excess fat for best texture
• Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps the marinade caramelize on the grill; choose a light colored honey for mild flavor
• Soy sauce: Use gluten-free if needed for a rich salted base; check labels for sodium content if you prefer less salty results
• Garlic: Fresh cloves create bold flavor; mince just before mixing to keep it pungent
• Olive oil: Gives the marinade body and helps prevent the chicken from sticking; select extra virgin for subtle fruity notes
• Ground black pepper: Adds a little zip; use freshly ground for full effect
• Bell pepper: Choose one with glossy skin and a firm feel for bright flavor and crunch
• Red onion: Pick onions with tight skins and no soft spots for the best grilled texture and sweetness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Combine honey, soy sauce, garlic, olive oil, and black pepper in a large bowl using a whisk until thoroughly blended and glossy. Nestle chicken cubes into the marinade so each piece is well coated, then cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes for best flavor.

Prep the Grill and Veggies:

While chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Rinse and pat dry bell pepper and red onion, then cut them into even one-inch pieces to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Assemble Skewers:

Thread a piece of chicken, followed by a chunk of bell pepper, then a wedge of onion onto each skewer. Repeat until all ingredients are used and try to leave a little space between pieces for even grilling and great caramelization.

Grill the Skewers:

Place skewers on hot grill and cook uncovered for about 10 to 15 minutes. Turn occasionally so all sides develop nice grill marks and the chicken cooks through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If the marinade sticks, brush off any excess before grilling to avoid burning.

Rest and Serve:

Once done, transfer skewers to a platter and let them rest a few minutes. This keeps the juices inside, making each bite tender and flavorful. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

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One of my favorite things is the way the bell pepper bits get those sweet caramelized edges on the grill. My family always argues over who gets the last skewer and it makes me nostalgic for summer nights spent gathered around the picnic table passing skewers down the line.

Storage Tips

Leftover skewers should be cooled completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a low oven or quickly re-grill them just until hot to prevent the chicken from drying out. For longer storage, remove chicken and veggies from the skewers and freeze in a sealed bag for up to two months.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs if you prefer juicier meat. For extra flavor, swap in orange bell pepper or add zucchini slices. If you are out of honey, a mix of brown sugar and a splash of pineapple juice works well. For soy-free, try coconut aminos instead.

Serving Suggestions

These skewers are delicious with a side of jasmine rice or a cool cucumber salad. They also make an excellent party appetizer if you use shorter skewers. Sometimes I serve them in warm pita bread with a drizzle of yogurt sauce for a fresh meal.

Cultural Context

Grilled skewers are popular in many cuisines, from American backyard barbecues to Mediterranean souvlaki and Asian yakitori. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic speaks to classic American flavors, while the technique of marinating meat for tenderness echoes barbecue traditions around the world.

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Common Questions

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, chicken thighs offer extra juiciness and can be substituted for chicken breast. Adjust grilling time as needed.

→ Is it necessary to marinate overnight?

Marinating for 30 minutes gives good flavor, but overnight marination deepens the taste even more.

→ Are the skewers suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, ensure the soy sauce is certified gluten-free to make the dish safe for gluten-free diets.

→ What vegetables pair well on the skewers?

Bell pepper and red onion are classic, but zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes can be delicious too.

→ Can I cook these without an outdoor grill?

Absolutely, use an oven broiler or stovetop grill pan. Cook until the chicken is fully done and golden.