Picture this: the sun is setting, and the fragrant aroma of marinated chicken skewers fills the air, beckoning everyone to gather around. That was the moment my love affair with Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers began. With each bite, you can savor the perfect marriage of sweet, savory, and just a hint of spice, all wrapped around tender chicken that practically begs to be grilled.
These skewers are not just a dish; they embody the spirit of summer cookouts and cozy weeknight dinners alike, making them a versatile addition to any table. Whether you’re seeking to impress friends at a backyard barbecue or simply want to treat your family to something special, this recipe hits the mark.
The best part? You have the freedom to customize them! From a spicy kick to a sweet teriyaki twist or even a zesty honey-lime variation, there’s a flavor profile to delight everyone. So grab those wooden skewers and let’s turn your kitchen into a culinary celebration of Korean flavors!
Why are Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers a must-try?
Deliciously Unique: These skewers combine the best of Korean BBQ flavors, providing an unforgettable taste experience.
Versatile Options: Customize your dinner with spicy, teriyaki, or zesty variations that cater to everyone’s preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, everyone will rave about these juicy, tender bites.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you’ll have these mouthwatering skewers on the grill in no time.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for summer cookouts or cozy family dinners, adding a delightful twist to your meals.
Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers Ingredients
• Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or enjoying a weeknight dinner, you’ll be amazed at how these Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers come together!
For the Chicken
• Boneless Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Juicier with thighs; breasts are leaner and still flavorful.
For the Marinade
• Soy Sauce – Provides essential saltiness and umami; opt for gluten-free soy sauce if needed.
• Brown Sugar or Honey – Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken; honey gives a floral note.
• Garlic, minced – Adds aromatic flavor; essential for depth in the marinade.
• Fresh Ginger, minced – Offers a warm, spicy hint; make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor.
• Sesame Oil – Contributes a nutty essence that shouldn’t be skipped for authenticity.
• Gochujang (Korean chili paste) or Gochugaru (chili flakes) – Adds heat and authenticity; choose based on your spice preference.
• Rice Vinegar or Mirin – Brightens the flavor; mirin adds a hint of sweetness.
For Grilling
• Vegetable Oil or Neutral Oil – Used to coat the grill and prevent sticking.
• Wooden or Metal Skewers – Essential for grilling; soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to avoid burning.
For Garnish
• Sesame Seeds and Sliced Green Onions – Provide a delightful garnish and finish that enhances the dish’s appeal.
How to Make Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers
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Whisk Together
In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, sesame oil, gochujang (if using), rice vinegar, and a splash of oil. Whisk until everything is blended nicely. -
Marinate Chicken
Add the boneless chicken thighs or breasts into the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 3 hours for maximum flavor. -
Preheat Grill
Set your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This is key for achieving those lovely grill marks and a smoky flavor on your skewers. -
Assemble Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken onto your skewers, leaving a little space between each piece so they cook evenly. This helps create that perfect char! -
Grill to Perfection
Grill the skewers for about 4–5 minutes on each side. Look for the chicken to be fully cooked and gently charred, developing that mouthwatering caramelization. -
Rest and Garnish
Once off the grill, let the skewers rest for a couple of minutes. This step helps retain their juicy goodness. Finish by garnishing with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an extra burst of flavor.
Optional: Serve with a side of kimchi for an authentic Korean experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers?
Picture your table adorned with vibrant sides that perfectly complement every juicy bite of those smoky skewers.
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Steamed Rice: The fluffy, neutral base absorbs the savory marinade, balancing flavors beautifully. It’s a classic pairing for a satisfying meal.
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Kimchi: This spicy-sour fermented side adds a zesty kick that elevates the overall dining experience, bringing authentic Korean flair to your table.
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Crisp Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad featuring cucumbers and shredded carrots refreshes the palate, offering a delightful contrast to the tender chicken.
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Pickled Vegetables: Bright and tangy, they provide a crunchy sweetness that perfectly offsets the savory richness of the skewers.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the smoky flavors beautifully, and its charred exterior enhances that summer vibe.
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Cold Soba Noodles: Tossed in a light sesame dressing, these noodles present a refreshing, nutty flavor that rounds out your meal with a different texture.
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Soju or Beer: Enjoying a cold glass of soju or a crisp lager enhances the flavors of the BBQ and brings a festive, authentic feel to your gathering.
These pairings create a harmonious feast that invites everyone to savor each moment around the table.
Expert Tips for Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers
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Marinate Longer: For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours. This step enhances the taste significantly.
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Check the Heat: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high before cooking. This prevents the chicken from drying out and creates that irresistible char.
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Avoid Crowding: Leave space between chicken pieces on the skewers. This allows for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect grilled texture.
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Customize Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, adjust the amount of gochujang or skip it altogether. This ensures a delightful flavor for everyone.
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Use Tamari for Gluten-Free: If you’re catering to gluten-free diets, substitute soy sauce with tamari to enjoy the deliciousness of Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers without worry.
Make Ahead Options
These Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers are perfect for busy home cooks who love to meal prep! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to fully develop. Simply mix your marinade and coat the chicken, then cover and refrigerate. For even easier assembly on grilling day, you can thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and store them in the fridge up to 3 days before cooking. To ensure they remain juicy and well-seasoned, avoid overcrowding the skewers and keep them properly sealed. When you’re ready to grill, simply preheat your grill and follow the cooking instructions as normal—you’ll enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers
Fridge: Store leftover Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. This keeps them fresh and flavorful for your next meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your skewers, bake in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or sauté them in a skillet to revive their juicy goodness. Grilling is also an option for that fresh, charred flavor!
Wrapping: If you’re not using a container, wrap the skewers tightly in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn when storing them in the freezer.
Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers Variations
Customize your skewers and explore exciting new flavors that will make your taste buds dance with delight!
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Spicy Kick: Add more gochujang or sprinkle in some gochugaru for a fiery flavor. Turn up the heat and create an unforgettable dish that stirs up excitement at the dinner table.
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Teriyaki Twist: Swap the gochujang for teriyaki sauce and skip the chili for a milder, sweeter experience. This twist blends Asian flavors beautifully and will appeal to those who prefer less heat.
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Honey-Lime Zest: Incorporate fresh lime juice and zest into the marinade for a citrusy spark. The combination of sweetness and tanginess brings a fresh brightness that perks up the dish, making it perfect for summer.
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Pineapple Glaze: Brush the chicken with pineapple juice while grilling for a sweet, tropical flavor. The caramelization from the grill will enhance the sweetness, creating a deliciously juicy skewer that transports you to an island paradise.
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Vegetable Skewers: Add marinated bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms alongside the chicken for a colorful and nutritious addition. These veggies will soak up the marinade, complementing the chicken while adding texture and vibrancy.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in some chopped cilantro or green onions into the marinade for an aromatic touch. This adds a fragrant herbaceous note, lifting flavors that whisper of freshness with each bite.
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Korean BBQ Beef Skewers: Use thinly sliced beef instead of chicken, marinating it using the same base. The result is tender, flavorful skewers that will satisfy even the heartiest appetites.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: Glaze the skewers with sweet chili sauce just before serving for an extra sweet-spicy punch. This adds another layer of flavor that balances beautifully with the savory marinated chicken.
Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers?
Juicier options like boneless chicken thighs are preferred for these skewers, while boneless chicken breasts remain a great lean alternative. Thighs hold up well during grilling, ensuring tender results.
How should I store leftover Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. This will keep them fresh and ready to enjoy again!
Can I freeze Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers?
Absolutely! For freezing, arrange the skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet. After they are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes or sauté in a skillet for best results.
How can I adjust cooking time based on grill type?
Gas grills usually heat more evenly than charcoal, so for charcoal grills, ensure proper heat distribution by arranging coals around the edges. For both types, cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, but always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Can I use substitutions for the ingredients?
Absolutely! For gluten-free, swap soy sauce with tamari. If you’re avoiding sugar, consider using a sugar substitute or skipping it entirely. You can also adjust the spice by controlling the amount of gochujang or omitting it for a milder flavor!
What’s the best way to ensure the chicken is evenly cooked?
Spacing chicken pieces on the skewers is crucial. Leave a little space between each piece to allow the heat to circulate freely during cooking. Also, marinating for longer (up to 24 hours) enhances flavors and ensures juiciness.
Savory Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers for a Flavor Explosion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, sesame oil, gochujang (if using), rice vinegar, and a splash of oil. Whisk until everything is blended nicely.
- Add the boneless chicken thighs or breasts into the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 3 hours for maximum flavor.
- Set your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This is key for achieving those lovely grill marks and a smoky flavor on your skewers.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto your skewers, leaving a little space between each piece so they cook evenly.
- Grill the skewers for about 4–5 minutes on each side until fully cooked and gently charred.
- Let the skewers rest for a couple of minutes. Finish by garnishing with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.