Name: Savor Delish Korean Chicken Skewers for Your Next Grill Party
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 285 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon Fresh ginger, grated (or 1 tsp of ground ginger); 2 cloves Minced garlic (or 1 tsp of garlic powder); 1/4 cup Low sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons Brown sugar (light or dark); 1 tablespoon Sesame oil (pure sesame oil); 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar (or white wine vinegar); 2 tablespoons Gochujang (or 1 tbsp tomato paste with ½ tsp sriracha); 3 tablespoons Green onions, chopped; 6 each Skewers (wooden or metal)

As I stood by the grill, the tantalizing aroma of my first batch of Korean Chicken Skewers filled the air, instantly transporting me to a bustling street market in Seoul. This dish, marinated in rich gochujang, transforms simple chicken thighs into mouthwatering delights that will wow your family and friends. Not only are these skewers a delightful crowd-pleaser, but they also come together in no time, giving you more moments to savor with your loved ones. Juicy and perfectly charred, they offer a vibrant taste of Asian cuisine that’s perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners. Ready to elevate your grilling game? Let’s dive into these delicious Korean Chicken Skewers!

Why are Korean Chicken Skewers a Must-Try?

Unforgettable flavors: The combination of sweet and spicy from gochujang creates a taste sensation that lingers with each bite.
Quick preparation: With minimal ingredients and an easy marinade, you’ll have skewers ready in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
Versatile side pairings: These skewers taste great with anything from grilled zucchini to fried rice, ensuring a delightful meal every time.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, everyone will love sinking their teeth into these juicy skewers.
Healthier alternative: Using chicken thighs keeps them tender and flavorful without sacrificing deliciousness—who knew healthy could taste this good?

Korean Chicken Skewers Ingredients

For the Marinade
• Chicken Thighs – Boneless skinless thighs provide moisture and flavor during grilling.
• Fresh Ginger – Adds warmth and spice; if you’re out, use 1 tsp of ground ginger instead.
• Minced Garlic – Infuses aromatic flavor; feel free to substitute with 1 tsp of garlic powder if necessary.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Offers essential saltiness and umami; using low sodium keeps the balance light.
• Brown Sugar – Brings a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors; use light or dark, or even granulated sugar if preferred.
• Sesame Oil – Enhances the overall flavor profile; pure sesame oil is best for its rich, nutty taste.
• Rice Vinegar – Adds a bright acidity; you can swap it with white wine vinegar in a pinch.
• Gochujang – The star of the marinade; this spicy Korean pepper paste is essential for that authentic flavor. If it’s not handy, mix 1 tbsp tomato paste with ½ tsp sriracha.

For Assembly and Garnish
• Green Onions – Use as a garnish for a fresh pop of color after grilling.
• Skewers – Choose wooden or metal skewers; remember to soak wooden ones in water to avoid burning while grilling.

Feel free to get creative with these Korean Chicken Skewers, a delightful twist that brings Asian flavors right to your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the boneless skinless chicken thighs into 1½-inch cubes and placing them into a large bowl. Ensure the pieces are uniform for even cooking. This step is crucial as it helps the chicken absorb the flavors of the marinade, making your Korean Chicken Skewers deliciously juicy.

Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a separate bowl, whisk together fresh ginger, minced garlic, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and gochujang until well blended. This marinade creates a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy that will elevate your skewers. The vibrant colors and aromatic scents will invite you to dive into this authentic Asian experience.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Pour half of the marinade over the chicken cubes, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight for maximum flavor infusion. This long marination time is key to achieving tender, flavorful Korean Chicken Skewers that will impress your family and friends at dinner.

Step 4: Save the Remaining Marinade
Don’t forget to transfer the remaining marinade into a covered container and store it in the refrigerator. You’ll use this flavorful mix later to baste the chicken skewers, adding an extra layer of taste and moisture during grilling. Keeping it chilled helps preserve its freshness and flavors for the final cooking stage.

Step 5: Skewering the Chicken
Once marinated, take your chicken out of the fridge and start threading the pieces onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’re pre-soaked in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium heat, about 350°F, ensuring a perfect sear on your Korean Chicken Skewers.

Step 6: Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 20-30 minutes, turning them every 3-4 minutes for an even char. Keep an eye on the chicken: it’s ready to go when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the edges turn a lovely caramelized brown. Baste the skewers with reserved marinade during the last few minutes for added richness.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once grilled to perfection, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve your flavorful Korean Chicken Skewers hot, garnished with chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Pair them with your favorite sides and delight in the explosion of flavors they bring to any meal.

Expert Tips for Korean Chicken Skewers

Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for a full night if possible. This ensures each bite of your Korean chicken skewers is bursting with flavor.
Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing skewers on it. A preheated grill helps achieve that glorious char and keeps the meat juicy.
Turn Regularly: Turn the skewers every 3-4 minutes. This technique not only cooks them evenly but also prevents burning and promotes a beautiful caramelization.
Check Temperature: Invest in a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s cooked through and safe to eat.
Alternate Ingredients: Get creative! Consider adding colorful bell peppers and onions between chicken pieces on the skewers for added flavor and nutrition.
Store Leftovers Smartly: Keep any leftover Korean chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently to keep them tender.

Korean Chicken Skewers Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to mix and match flavors and ingredients to suit your taste! Each variation brings a unique twist that can elevate your Korean Chicken Skewers experience.

Boneless Chicken Breasts: Swap chicken thighs for leaner boneless skinless chicken breasts for a lighter skewers option.
Veggie Skewers: Add bell peppers, onions, or zucchini in between the chicken pieces for extra flavor and nutrition. Colorful veggies not only enhance the dish visually but also complement the spicy marinade beautifully.
Tofu Twist: For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with marinated tofu or portobello mushrooms. These alternatives soak up the marinade, offering a satisfying and hearty texture.
Spice Level: If you crave more heat, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or chili powder with the gochujang. This little addition will ignite your taste buds and turn up the excitement!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the marinade for a refreshing twist. These aromatic herbs will elevate the skewers even further, making them unforgettable.

For a delightful side, consider serving your Korean Chicken Skewers with a refreshing cucumber salad or some homemade fried rice like in our Korean Fried Chicken with Zucchini!

Sweet and Sour: Swap brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a unique twist on sweetness. This alternative will give your skewers a delightful glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
Citrus Splash: To brighten the flavors, add freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice to the marinade. The acidity balances the richness and adds a refreshing touch that will keep you coming back for more!

These variations will ensure your Korean Chicken Skewers are always delicious and satisfying. Enjoy playing with flavors and don’t forget to share the joy of home-cooked goodness!

How to Store and Freeze Korean Chicken Skewers

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain the juicy flavors of your Korean chicken skewers while keeping them fresh.

Freezer: If you have extra skewers, freeze them for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, place skewers in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or grill briefly to warm through while maintaining that wonderful charred taste.

Marinade Storage: Keep any remaining marinade covered in the fridge for up to a week. Use it to baste during reheating or to enhance flavor in other dishes.

Make Ahead Options

These Korean Chicken Skewers are a perfect option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and the chicken to stay juicy. Simply prepare the marinade as directed, then coat the chicken pieces and refrigerate. For added convenience, you can also skewer the marinated chicken and keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill, which can be up to 3 days ahead. When it’s time to cook, just preheat your grill and follow the grilling instructions, basting with the reserved marinade for that rich flavor you love. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy tender, flavorful Korean Chicken Skewers that are just as delicious, all while saving precious time on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Korean Chicken Skewers?

Savoring the juicy flavors of these skewers invites a symphony of complementary dishes to create a delightful meal.

Coconut Jasmine Rice: This aromatic and fluffy rice melts in your mouth, balancing the spice of the skewers beautifully. It’s like a cozy hug for your palate.
Sesame Green Beans: These vibrant green beans, lightly sautéed with sesame oil, add crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the tender chicken perfectly. The fresh element keeps your plate feeling light.
Spicy Kimchi Slaw: The tangy crunch of kimchi slaw delivers a refreshing contrast to the warm, grilled skewers, enhancing the overall flavor experience with each bite.
Grilled Zucchini: Tender, grilled zucchini drizzled with olive oil and herbs brings a touch of summer to your table. Its smoky char pairs harmoniously with the flavors of the chicken.
Mango Salad: Fresh mango, cucumber, and a lime dressing create a sweet and zesty side that brightens your meal. The sweetness contrasts delightfully with the savory spicy skewers.
Ginger Cucumber Salad: This crunchy salad is light yet flavorful, with a hint of ginger that echoes the marinade’s notes. It’s a refreshing palate cleanser between bites!
Chilled Soba Noodles: Tossed in a light soy and sesame dressing, these chilled noodles provide a lovely contrast in texture while enhancing the Asian theme of your meal.
Peach Iced Tea: A refreshing drink to cool down the spice from the skewers, this tea infuses sweet peach flavors that revive your taste buds beautifully.

Exploring these side dishes will transform your Korean Chicken Skewers into a feast that everyone will rave about long after the meal!

Korean Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken works best for Korean Chicken Skewers?
I highly recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs for their moisture and flavor. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute with boneless skinless chicken breasts, but the skewers may be slightly drier.

How do I know if the chicken is ripe or fresh?
Look for chicken that is pinkish in color with no dark spots or odor. Fresh chicken thighs should feel firm and moist but not slimy. Always check the “use by” date when purchasing.

How should I store leftover Korean Chicken Skewers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you might want to warm them gently in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, preserving that delicious juiciness.

Can I freeze Korean Chicken Skewers, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil—this will help prevent freezer burn. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating on the grill or in the oven.

What if my marinade is too spicy or salty?
If you find the marinade too spicy, you can balance it out by adding a bit more brown sugar or even a touch of honey. If it’s too salty, incorporating a bit of water or more minced garlic can help mellow the flavor. Taste as you go to adjust to your liking!

Are the ingredients safe for pets or allergies?
Many of the ingredients in Korean Chicken Skewers, like garlic and onions, can be harmful to pets. It’s best to keep leftovers away from them. For allergies, be cautious with soy sauce, as it contains gluten. You can use gluten-free soy sauce as a substitute if necessary.