Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers

These Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers are the perfect blend of smoky, juicy goodness and bold flavors. Ideal for summer cookouts, game day gatherings, or a delightful weeknight dinner, they offer a unique taste that elevates your dining experience. With a simple marinade and quick grilling time, you can create restaurant-quality Korean BBQ right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 27 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and gochujang creates a deliciously sweet-savory flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these skewers with rice, salads, or as an appetizer. They fit perfectly into any meal.
• Healthier Option: Using chicken thighs or breasts keeps this dish lean while still being juicy and satisfying.
• Fun to Grill: Grilling adds a smoky touch that enhances the overall flavor profile and makes cooking fun!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden or metal skewers
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Grill or grill pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for threading the chicken pieces for even cooking on the grill.
• Mixing Bowl: A sturdy bowl is necessary to mix the marinade thoroughly without spilling.
• Whisk: This tool ensures that all marinade ingredients blend smoothly together for maximum flavor.
• Grill or Grill Pan: Provides the ideal cooking surface to achieve that perfect charred exterior.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into 1 ½-inch cubes

For the Marinade

• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• ⅓ cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste, adjust to spice preference)

For Garnish

• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Other

• Wooden or metal skewers

How to Make Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a bowl:
1. Whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, gochujang, and green onions until well combined.

Step 3: Marinate

1. Place chicken in a resealable bag or bowl.
2. Pour in the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
3. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.

Step 5: Grill

1. Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat.
2. Cook skewers for approximately 10–12 minutes while turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on edges.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions before serving hot with steamed rice, kimchi, or fresh salad.

Enjoy your homemade Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers!

How to Serve Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers

These Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Pair your skewers with fluffy steamed rice for a satisfying meal. The rice absorbs the savory marinade, enhancing each bite.

Fresh Salad

• Serve alongside a fresh salad to add a crunchy texture. A simple cucumber and carrot salad drizzled with sesame dressing works beautifully.

Kimchi

• For an authentic Korean touch, include kimchi. Its spicy and tangy flavor complements the sweetness of the chicken skewers perfectly.

Lettuce Wraps

• Wrap pieces of chicken in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing bite. Top with sesame seeds and extra green onions for added flavor.

Dipping Sauce

• Offer a side of soy sauce or a spicy gochujang dip. This allows guests to customize their skewers according to their taste preferences.

How to Perfect Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers

To ensure your Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers are delicious and cooked to perfection, follow these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality chicken: Fresh, boneless, skinless chicken thighs provide the best flavor and juiciness.
• Marinate longer: For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible.
• Preheat your grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the skewers; this helps achieve that perfect char and smoky flavor.
• Cook evenly: Turn the skewers regularly while grilling to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Baste during grilling: Brush some reserved marinade on the skewers while they cook for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers

Complement your Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers with these delightful side dishes that enhance the overall dining experience.

1. Korean Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad features thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes.
2. Pickled Radishes: Crunchy pickled radishes provide a tangy contrast that balances the richness of the skewers.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only adds color but also offers a nutritious option that pairs well with grilled meats.
4. Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potato mash brings a subtle sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the chicken.
5. Spicy Garlic Green Beans: Stir-fried green beans with garlic and red pepper flakes add a spicy crunch to your meal.
6. Rice Paper Rolls: Fill rice paper wraps with fresh veggies and herbs for a light and refreshing appetizer alongside your skewers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers to the next level.

• Using too much marinade: While flavor is key, over-marinating can make the chicken soggy. Stick to the recommended marinating time for the best results.
• Skipping the soaking step for wooden skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, not soaking them can lead to burnt sticks. Soak for at least 30 minutes to prevent this.
• Not preheating the grill: Grilling on a cold surface can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding your skewers.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking beyond the recommended time can dry out your chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions can take away from the presentation and flavor. Always finish with these for an added touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers

• Place cooked skewers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers.

How do I make Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers spicier?

You can increase the amount of gochujang or add red pepper flakes to the marinade for extra heat.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts are leaner but may require careful cooking to avoid drying out.

What sides pair well with Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers?

Consider serving them with steamed rice, kimchi, or fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How long should I marinate Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers?

Marinate for at least 1 hour, but up to 8 hours will deepen the flavor even more.

Can I grill these skewers indoors?

Yes! You can use a grill pan or broiler instead if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.

Final Thoughts

These Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for gatherings, they allow you to customize flavors based on your preferences. Try adding different vegetables or adjusting spice levels for your ideal dish!