If you’re looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion, these Chicken Skewers with Sweet Garlic Sauce are sure to impress. Tender pieces of marinated chicken are grilled to perfection, then coated in a luscious sweet garlic glaze that brings together savory, sweet, and slightly tangy notes in every bite.
Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or a weeknight treat, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 ½ pounds (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sweet Garlic Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Marinating time: 30 minutes (minimum)
- Cooking time: 12–15 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, olive oil, honey, garlic, ginger, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Step 2: Prepare the Skewers
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces for even cooking.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Cook skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.
Step 4: Make the Sweet Garlic Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, garlic, and vinegar.
- Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then stir in the cornstarch slurry.
- Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and turns glossy, about 2 minutes.
Step 5: Glaze and Serve
- Brush the grilled chicken skewers generously with the sweet garlic sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Pair with cucumber salad or pickled radish for a refreshing contrast.
- Turn it into a party favorite by serving the skewers as appetizers with toothpicks.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 skewer) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 23 grams |
| Total Fat | 8 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 12 grams |
| Sugars | 9 grams |
| Fiber | 0 grams |
| Sodium | 420 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Lean chicken provides high-quality protein for muscle maintenance.
- Garlic and ginger add antioxidants and natural immune-boosting properties.
- Honey gives natural sweetness and helps caramelize the glaze beautifully.
- Can be made low-sodium by using reduced-sodium soy sauce.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Skewers
- Cut chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
- Don’t skip the marinating step — it enhances tenderness and flavor.
- Brush with sauce only at the end to prevent burning the sugars on the grill.
- For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
Variations to Try
- Asian Fusion: Add a splash of sesame oil and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
- Tropical Twist: Add chunks of pineapple and bell pepper between chicken pieces.
- Oven Option: Bake skewers at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute tofu or mushrooms for chicken using the same marinade.
These Chicken Skewers with Sweet Garlic Sauce combine the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and garlicky flavors. Simple to prepare yet irresistibly delicious, they’re ideal for family dinners, outdoor grilling, or party platters.
Juicy, tender, and glazed to perfection — this recipe turns everyday chicken into an unforgettable meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.