Name: Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 3
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Marinade:; 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil; ⅓ cup honey; ⅓ cup soy sauce; 3 cloves garlic; 1 tsp pepper; For Skewers:; 3 chicken breasts; 1 red onion; 2 red bell peppers; 2 orange bell peppers; 2 yellow bell peppers; parsley

These honey-garlic chicken skewers are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. Marinated with a blend of honey and soy sauce, these skewers are sure to please everyone at the table.

Photos of Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers Recipe

If you don't have soy sauce at home, make sure to grab it from the supermarket as it's essential for the marinade. Another key ingredient is honey, which adds a delightful sweetness to the chicken. Fresh parsley is used for garnish, which you might not always have on hand.

Ingredients For Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers

vegetable oil: Provides a base for the marinade and keeps the chicken moist during cooking.

honey: Adds sweetness and helps to caramelize the chicken on the grill or in the oven.

soy sauce: Provides a salty and umami flavor to balance the sweetness of the honey.

garlic: Fresh cloves minced to add a robust, aromatic flavor.

pepper: Adds a hint of spice to the marinade.

chicken breasts: The main protein, cut into cubes for skewering.

red onion: Adds a slight sweetness and a bit of crunch to the skewers.

red bell peppers: Sweet and colorful, these peppers are perfect for grilling.

orange bell peppers: Adds another layer of sweetness and color to the dish.

yellow bell peppers: Complements the other bell peppers with its mild flavor.

parsley: Freshly chopped for garnish, adding color and a hint of herbal flavor.

One reader, Cathryn Albers says:

These honey-garlic chicken skewers are fantastic! The marinade is perfectly balanced, making the chicken juicy and flavorful. The colorful bell peppers add a great crunch. Easy to prepare and a hit at our BBQ. Highly recommend!

Cathryn Albers

Techniques Required for Making Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers

Yes.

How to soak skewers: Place wooden skewers in a shallow dish filled with water and let them soak for 5 to 10 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.

How to marinate chicken: Combine vegetable oil, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and pepper in a bowl with the chicken. Mix until the chicken is well coated, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.

How to preheat the oven: Set the oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before baking.

How to cut vegetables into 1-inch squares: Use a sharp knife to cut the red onion and bell peppers into uniform 1-inch square pieces for even cooking.

How to assemble skewers: Thread the soaked skewers with alternating pieces of red onion, bell peppers, and marinated chicken, repeating the pattern three times.

How to bake or grill skewers: Place the assembled skewers on a baking sheet, brush with remaining marinade, and bake or grill for 20 to 30 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink.

How To Make Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Don’t dare miss having this honey garlic chicken skewers prepared at your next barbeque party. Prepare a big batch as the guest will be asking for more!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Marinade:

3tbspvegetable oil
⅓cuphoney
⅓cupsoy sauce
3clovesgarlic,minced
1tsppepper

For Skewers:

3chicken breasts,cubed
1red onion
2red bell peppers
2orange bell peppers
2yellow bell peppers
parsley,fresh to taste

Instructions

Soak the skewers in water for 5 to 10 minutes and set aside.
In a bowl with the chicken, add the ingredients for the marinade.
Mix until coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
If baking, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Prepare the vegetables by cutting them into 1-inch squares.
Assemble the skewers starting with the red onion, followed by the bell peppers and chicken. Repeat three times.
Place the prepared skewers on a baking sheet and brush with remaining marinade.
Bake or grill for 20 to 30 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink.
Sprinkle with parsley.

Nutrition

Calories: 660.89kcal
Fat: 31.13g
Saturated Fat: 5.68g
Trans Fat: 0.29g
Monounsaturated Fat: 16.79g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.02g
Carbohydrates: 55.71g
Fiber: 5.96g
Sugar: 39.56g
Protein: 42.43g
Cholesterol: 111.36mg
Sodium: 1681.93mg
Calcium: 82.83mg
Potassium: 1241.27mg
Iron: 3.70mg
Vitamin A: 328.04µg
Vitamin C: 442.11mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers

To ensure your chicken skewers cook evenly, cut the chicken breasts into uniform pieces. This will help them cook at the same rate as the vegetables. Additionally, when threading the skewers, leave a small gap between each piece to allow heat to circulate and cook the chicken thoroughly.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers

Prepare the marinade in advance: Mix the vegetable oil, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and pepper the night before to save time.

Cut vegetables ahead: Chop the red onion and bell peppers into 1-inch squares and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-soaked skewers: Soak the skewers in water while you prepare the other ingredients to streamline the process.

Batch assembly: Lay out all ingredients and assemble multiple skewers at once to save time.

Preheat the oven or grill: Start preheating your oven or grill while marinating the chicken.

Substitute Ingredients For Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers Recipe

vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a richer flavor and is a healthier option.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup has a similar sweetness and consistency, making it a good alternative.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free option with a similar umami flavor.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is not available, though the flavor will be slightly less intense.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat level but a slightly different flavor profile.
chicken breasts - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, though they may require slightly longer cooking.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a milder flavor and can be used in place of red onions.
red bell peppers - Substitute with green bell peppers: Green bell peppers are less sweet but can be used if red bell peppers are not available.
orange bell peppers - Substitute with yellow bell peppers: Yellow bell peppers have a similar sweetness and texture.
yellow bell peppers - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers add a mild heat and a different flavor profile.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, citrusy flavor that can complement the dish well.

Presenting Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers for Maximum Appeal

Use high-quality skewers: Opt for stainless steel skewers instead of wooden ones to give a more refined look and ensure even cooking of the chicken and vegetables.
Uniform cuts: Ensure that the chicken and vegetables are cut into perfectly uniform 1-inch squares. This not only aids in even cooking but also enhances the visual appeal.
Layering technique: Alternate the red onion, red bell peppers, orange bell peppers, yellow bell peppers, and chicken in a precise and consistent pattern to create a visually striking skewer.
Marinade glaze: After baking or grilling, brush the skewers with a fresh layer of the honey-garlic marinade to give them a glossy finish and an extra burst of flavor.
Elegant plating: Arrange the skewers on a long, narrow platter. Place a small mound of finely chopped parsley at one end of the platter for a pop of color and freshness.
Garnish with finesse: Lightly sprinkle finely chopped parsley over the skewers just before serving to add a touch of green and a hint of herbaceous aroma.
Accompanying sauce: Serve a small ramekin of extra honey-garlic sauce on the side for dipping, enhancing the flavor profile and providing an interactive element for the diners.
Final touch: Add a few edible flowers or microgreens around the platter to elevate the presentation and give it a sophisticated, Michelin-star-worthy finish.

Essential Tools for Making Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers

Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the chicken with the marinade ingredients.
Plastic wrap: Used to cover the mixing bowl and refrigerate the marinated chicken.
Knife: Essential for cutting the chicken breasts and vegetables into 1-inch squares.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the chicken and vegetables.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the vegetable oil, honey, soy sauce, and pepper accurately.
Measuring cup: Used for measuring the honey and soy sauce.
Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.
Skewers: Wooden or metal sticks used to assemble the chicken and vegetable pieces.
Baking sheet: If baking, this is used to place the assembled skewers in the oven.
Basting brush: Used to brush the remaining marinade onto the skewers before baking or grilling.
Oven: If baking, this is used to cook the skewers at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Grill: An alternative to the oven, used to cook the skewers over an open flame.
Tongs: Useful for turning the skewers while grilling or baking to ensure even cooking.
Serving platter: A large plate or tray used to serve the finished skewers.
Chopping knife: Another term for the knife used to cut the chicken and vegetables.
Refrigerator: Used to marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Storing and Freezing Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers

Once the chicken skewers have cooled to room temperature, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the honey-garlic chicken skewers, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the skewers to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and contents. Frozen skewers can be stored for up to 3 months.
When ready to reheat, remove the desired number of skewers from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can also reheat the frozen skewers directly in the oven or on the grill, but they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time.
To reheat in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed or frozen skewers on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes (for thawed skewers) or 20-25 minutes (for frozen skewers), or until heated through.
For grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the thawed or frozen skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes (for thawed skewers) or 10-12 minutes (for frozen skewers), turning occasionally, until heated through and lightly charred.
When reheating, be sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to consume.

How To Reheat Leftover Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers

To reheat leftover honey-garlic chicken skewers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the skewers with a little bit of olive oil or melted butter to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Another option is to reheat the skewers on a grill or grill pan. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the skewers with a little bit of olive oil or melted butter. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is heated through and the vegetables are slightly charred.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can also reheat the skewers in the microwave. Place the skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the vegetables are tender-crisp. Be careful not to overcook the skewers in the microwave, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and rubbery.
For a tasty twist, you can also chop up the leftover honey-garlic chicken skewers and use them as a topping for a salad or grain bowl. Simply remove the chicken and vegetables from the skewers and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with your favorite salad greens, quinoa, or rice, and drizzle with a little bit of olive oil and lemon juice for a quick and easy meal.
If you want to get creative, you can also use the leftover honey-garlic chicken skewers as a filling for tacos or wraps. Simply remove the chicken and vegetables from the skewers and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Warm up some tortillas or wraps, and fill them with the chopped chicken and vegetables. Top with your favorite taco toppings, such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream, and enjoy!

Interesting Trivia About Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers

A random fact about this recipe is that the honey in the marinade not only adds a natural sweetness but also helps to caramelize the chicken when cooked, giving it a beautiful golden-brown color.

Is Making Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers at Home Cost-Effective?

This honey-garlic chicken skewers recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, bell peppers, and red onion are affordable and easily available. The marinade uses common pantry staples such as soy sauce, honey, and garlic. For a household of 4, the approximate cost would be around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers Healthy or Unhealthy?

This honey-garlic chicken skewers recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Let's break it down:

Healthy elements:

Chicken breast is a lean protein source
Bell peppers and onions provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber
Garlic offers potential health benefits like boosting immunity and reducing inflammation

Less healthy aspects:

The marinade contains a significant amount of honey and soy sauce, which can add extra sugar and sodium to the dish
Vegetable oil is used in the marinade, which is a refined oil high in omega-6 fatty acids

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of honey in the marinade or replace some of it with a sugar-free alternative like erythritol or stevia
Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos to decrease the sodium content
Replace the vegetable oil with a healthier option like avocado oil or olive oil, which are rich in monounsaturated fats
Add more vegetables to the skewers, such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms, to increase the nutrient density
Serve the skewers with a side of leafy greens or a colorful salad to make it a well-rounded meal

By making these adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of the dish while still enjoying the delicious flavors of honey-garlic chicken skewers. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying this meal as part of a balanced diet is the most important aspect of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Editor's Opinion on the Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers Recipe

This honey-garlic chicken skewers recipe is a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The marinade, combining honey, soy sauce, and garlic, infuses the chicken with a rich taste, while the colorful bell peppers and red onion add a vibrant crunch. Soaking the skewers prevents burning, and the option to bake or grill offers flexibility. Brushing with remaining marinade ensures a glossy finish. Sprinkling with parsley adds a fresh touch. Overall, it's a visually appealing and flavorful dish perfect for gatherings or a weeknight dinner.

Enhance Your Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Elevate your honey-garlic chicken skewers with a side of perfectly charred asparagus, kissed with a hint of lemon zest. The bright citrus notes will dance harmoniously with the savory-sweet marinade, creating a symphony of flavors on your plate.

Quinoa and Avocado Salad: Quinoa and Avocado Salad: Add a refreshing and nutritious touch with a vibrant quinoa and avocado salad. The nutty quinoa pairs beautifully with creamy avocado, while a splash of lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro bring a zesty freshness that complements the rich chicken skewers.

Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob: Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob: Imagine biting into sweet, juicy corn slathered in a luscious garlic butter sauce. This side dish adds a delightful crunch and a buttery, garlicky goodness that enhances the flavors of your honey-garlic chicken skewers.

Mango and Black Bean Salsa: Mango and Black Bean Salsa: Bring a tropical twist to your meal with a vibrant mango and black bean salsa. The sweetness of the mango mingles with the earthy black beans, while a touch of jalapeño adds a spicy kick. This colorful side dish will add a burst of flavor and texture to your chicken skewers.

Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges: Delight in the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes roasted to perfection. These crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside wedges are seasoned with a hint of smoked paprika and sea salt, making them the perfect companion to your savory honey-garlic chicken skewers.

Delicious Alternatives to Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Dive into the savory world of teriyaki chicken skewers. Marinate your chicken in a blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic. Skewer with chunks of pineapple, bell peppers, and red onions. Grill to perfection and serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers: Experience the zesty freshness of lemon herb chicken skewers. Marinate chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a medley of fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary. Skewer with zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onions. Grill until golden and juicy.

Spicy Sriracha Chicken Skewers: Turn up the heat with spicy sriracha chicken skewers. Marinate chicken in a fiery blend of sriracha, soy sauce, honey, and garlic. Skewer with bell peppers, red onions, and pineapple. Grill until the chicken is charred and caramelized, then garnish with cilantro.

Mediterranean Chicken Skewers: Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with Mediterranean chicken skewers. Marinate chicken in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano. Skewer with cherry tomatoes, red onions, and kalamata olives. Grill and serve with a side of tzatziki sauce.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump, juicy mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The creaminess of the cheese pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, creating a delightful bite-sized treat. Top them with a sprinkle of parmesan and a dash of breadcrumbs for a crispy finish. These little morsels are sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Caprese Skewers: Bring a touch of Italian elegance to your table with caprese skewers. These vibrant skewers feature juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle them with a rich balsamic glaze and a splash of extra virgin olive oil for a burst of flavor. The combination of sweet tomatoes, milky mozzarella, and aromatic basil creates a harmonious balance that is both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for a light and elegant start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, molten center of rich chocolate that oozes out as you cut into it. This decadent treat pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries for a touch of elegance. The contrast between the warm, gooey chocolate and the cold, creamy ice cream creates a delightful sensory experience.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Envision a buttery crust filled with a tangy lemon curd and topped with a fluffy, golden-brown meringue. The lemon curd provides a zesty contrast to the sweet, airy meringue, making each bite a perfect balance of flavors. Garnish with a few lemon zest curls and serve chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. This dessert is a beautiful combination of textures and tastes that will leave your guests impressed.

Why trust this Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers Recipe:

This honey-garlic chicken skewers recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious and easy-to-make meal. The marinade combines honey, soy sauce, and garlic to create a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The chicken absorbs these flavors beautifully, while the bell peppers and red onion add a delightful crunch and vibrant color. Whether you choose to bake or grill these skewers, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, flavor, and crowd-pleasing potential.

Share your thoughts on the Honey-Garlic Chicken Skewers recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I usually marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours really helps the flavors soak in.

Can I use other vegetables for the skewers?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up with veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Just make sure they're cut into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

What if I don't have an oven? Can I grill these instead?

Yes, you can definitely grill the skewers. Just preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook them for about 20 to 30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it's no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. If you have a meat thermometer, it should read 165 degrees F when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

You can prep the skewers a few hours in advance and keep them in the fridge until you're ready to bake or grill them. Just make sure to brush them with the remaining marinade right before cooking.