Chicken Skewers with Korean BBQ Sauce

The aroma of grilled chicken mingling with a spicy-sweet sauce fills the air, instantly drawing friends and family to the kitchen. These Chicken Skewers with Korean BBQ Sauce are not only quick to prepare but also deliver a flavor-packed punch thanks to a perfect combination of marinated chicken and the rich, umami flavors of gochujang. Ideal for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners, this recipe is a standout for those who love bold, delightful flavors.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress at gatherings, meal prep enthusiasts, or simply chicken lovers craving something different. Make it for your next backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner. If you want, the marinated chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to two days prior to grilling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy and tender chicken each time, thanks to marination.
• A unique blend of flavors from Korean BBQ sauce that excites the palate.
• Perfect for grilling, providing beautiful char marks.
• Quick preparation with a cooking time of 10 minutes.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

For The Marinade

• 0.25 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp gochujang
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

For The Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks

For Cooking

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For Garnish

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced

Gochujang is a Korean chili paste with a unique flavor profile.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• Maple syrup works instead of honey.
• Tamari can replace soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
• Olive oil can substitute vegetable oil.

How to Make It

Ready to savor some delicious chicken skewers? Follow these steps:

Soak the Skewers

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning while grilling.

Whisk the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, gochujang, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until fully combined.

Reserve Marinade

Set aside a small amount of the marinade for basting the chicken later.

Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken chunks in a large bowl or a resealable bag, pour the marinade over, and let marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.

Thread the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers, ensuring each piece is packed tightly.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and brush it with vegetable oil. Grill the skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through, brushing with the reserved marinade as they cook.

Rest and Garnish

Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, it’s best fresh for flavor.
Reheat: Microwave or grill for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Tips for Best Results

• Allow the chicken to marinate longer for enhanced flavors.
• Use a meat thermometer for precision; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Baste sparsely to avoid overly sticky chicken on the grill.
• Experiment with additional vegetables on the skewers for extra flavor and color.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.
• Serve as an appetizer at your next party or gathering.
• Enjoy with a crisp salad for a light and fresh dinner option.