Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick

Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for your next gathering. This delightful dish combines tender grilled chicken with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, making it perfect for barbecues, picnics, or weeknight dinners. Its easy preparation and bold flavors will impress your family and friends, making mealtime special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger creates a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the chicken’s taste.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this dish up in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick fits all settings.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the marinade to suit your taste preferences.
• Kid-Friendly: The sweet flavor of teriyaki sauce makes this recipe appealing to kids, encouraging even picky eaters to enjoy their meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make preparing Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers (bamboo or metal)
• Small saucepan
• Zip top bag
• Grill or grill pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for threading chicken pieces; ensures even cooking on the grill.
• Small saucepan: Used to create the delicious teriyaki sauce that coats the chicken.
• Zip top bag: Perfect for marinating the chicken evenly in the teriyaki sauce.
• Grill: Provides that wonderful charred flavor that elevates the dish.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

• ½ cup Soy Sauce
• ¼ cup Brown Sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons Fresh Ginger (peeled and grated)
• 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Honey
• 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
• 3 tablespoons Mirin or Sesame Vinegar
• ¼ cup Water
• 1 tablespoon Cornstarch

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds Chicken (boneless and skinless, cut into chunks)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick

Step 1: Prepare the Skewers

If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes. This step prevents them from burning while grilling.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, honey, sesame oil, and mirin. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the water and cornstarch to form a slurry. Stir this slurry into the saucepan with your sauce. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 4: Reserve Sauce

Remove from heat and reserve ½ cup of your prepared teriyaki sauce for later use.

Step 5: Marinate Chicken

Allow the remaining sauce to cool for at least 30 minutes. Place chicken pieces in a zip top bag and pour the cooled teriyaki sauce over them. Seal tightly and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 6: Thread Chicken onto Skewers

After marinating, thread chicken pieces onto soaked skewers.

Step 7: Grill Chicken

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Place chicken skewers on the grill and cook until well browned on one side (about 3-5 minutes).

Step 8: Finish Cooking

Turn the skewers over and grill another 3-5 minutes or until each piece reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 9: Baste with Reserved Sauce

Once done grilling, remove chicken from heat and baste with reserved teriyaki sauce before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick!

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick

Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether at a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner, these delightful skewers can be paired with various sides to enhance their flavor.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed rice is a classic pairing that complements the rich teriyaki sauce, absorbing its sweet and savory notes.

Over Noodles

• Serving teriyaki chicken over noodles adds a comforting element. Try udon or soba for an authentic Asian experience.

Accompanied by Fresh Vegetables

• Fresh vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots add crunch and color. They make the meal feel light and refreshing.

As Part of a Salad

• Toss your teriyaki chicken on a mixed greens salad for added texture and nutrition. Drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce for flavor.

With Grilled Corn

• Grilled corn on the cob is a perfect side that brings a sweet contrast to the savory chicken skewers.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick

Perfecting your Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish stands out.

• Marinate Longer: Marinating the chicken for several hours (or overnight) deepens the flavor, making it even more delicious.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic elevate the taste compared to dried versions; always opt for fresh when possible.
• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on grilling time; overcooked chicken will be dry, while perfectly grilled pieces remain juicy.
• Baste Generously: Basting with reserved sauce enhances the flavor and keeps the chicken moist during grilling.
• Choose Quality Chicken: Selecting high-quality, boneless, skinless chicken ensures tenderness and better overall taste.
• Experiment with Skewers: Feel free to mix different vegetables or pineapple chunks between chicken pieces for added variety.

Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick

Pairing side dishes with Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick can enhance the flavors and create a complete meal. Consider these options:

1. Fried Rice: A classic Asian side dish that complements teriyaki flavors well; stir-fry with eggs and veggies for extra richness.
2. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness and texture.
3. Miso Soup: A warm miso soup balances out the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce, providing comforting warmth.
4. Pickled Vegetables: Quick-pickled cucumbers or radishes offer a tangy contrast that brightens up each bite of chicken.
5. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is not only nutritious but also provides an engaging snack alongside your main dish.
6. Stir-Fried Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli sautéed in garlic oil pairs well with teriyaki chicken while adding vibrant color to your plate.
7. Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad can provide a healthy grain option that rounds out the meal beautifully.
8. Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy offers a mild flavor that complements the boldness of teriyaki chicken perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Skewer Soaking: Not soaking bamboo skewers can lead to burning. Always soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160 degrees.

• Using Cold Marinade: If you add cold marinade to the chicken, it can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure the marinade is at room temperature before adding it to the chicken.

• Not Reserving Sauce: Forgetting to reserve some teriyaki sauce for basting can reduce flavor. Always set aside part of the sauce before marinating the chicken.

• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Grilling on too high or too low heat can affect cooking time and texture. Preheat your grill properly for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it cools down before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick

• Place cooked chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or oil and cover. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick?

Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick is a delicious grilled dish made with marinated chicken pieces threaded onto skewers and brushed with sweet teriyaki sauce.

How do I make the teriyaki sauce?

To make teriyaki sauce, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, honey, sesame oil, and mirin in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then thicken with cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or pineapple chunks between the chicken pieces on the skewers for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy?

To keep your chicken juicy while grilling, marinate it well and avoid overcooking by checking its internal temperature regularly.

Is Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it reheats well and pairs nicely with rice or vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Teriyaki Chicken on a Stick is not only tender and juicy but also versatile enough for any summer barbecue or weeknight dinner. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness of the sauce. Give this delightful dish a try; your taste buds will thank you!