If you’re in search of a dish that marries the smoky savor of grilled meat with the sweet, tangy notes of teriyaki sauce, look no further than Juicy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers. This tantalizing recipe brings together succulent chicken thighs wrapped in crispy bacon, skewered with juicy pineapple chunks, all dramatically elevated by a homemade teriyaki glaze. Ideal for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners, these skewers deliver a burst of flavor in every bite, making them a hit with family and friends alike.

What sets this recipe apart is not only its delectable flavor profile but also its ease of preparation. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that looks gourmet yet is surprisingly simple. Imagine the aroma of chicken sizzling on the grill, infused with the sweet and savory hints of teriyaki while pineapple caramelizes alongside, creating a mouth-watering combination you won’t soon forget. Plus, as a gluten-free dish, it’s accessible for a wide range of dietary needs, appealing to everyone at the table.

Not to mention, marinating the chicken in teriyaki sauce for several hours allows the flavors to saturate deeply, resulting in tender, juicy perfection. This recipe also offers versatility when it comes to sides— pair it with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Juicy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Deliciously Flavorful: The homemade teriyaki sauce, combined with sweet pineapple and crispy bacon, offers an explosion of taste.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, these skewers come together quickly, making it a hassle-free option for dinner.
Perfect for Grilling: Ideal for warm weather outdoor gatherings or backyard barbecues.
Customizable: You can swap out ingredients or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste buds, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal.
Healthy Option: Made with fresh ingredients, this dish is not only gluten-free but can also be made healthier with leaner proteins and more veggies.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your cooking tools. You’ll need a grill or a grilling pan, metal or bamboo skewers (if you choose bamboo, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning), and a large baking dish for marinating the skewers. Having sharp knives and a chopping board is imperative for cutting the chicken and pineapple efficiently. Additionally, some cooking brushes will come in handy to apply the teriyaki sauce while grilling, ensuring that every inch of your skewers is well-coated with that irresistible glaze.

Setting up your workspace will make the cooking process smoother. Clear a large area for assembly, where you can easily reach your ingredients, and keep your grill within proximity to avoid excessive back and forth. Everything you need should be within arm’s reach, allowing you to keep the flow going without interruptions. Proper preparation is the key to achieving that effortless vibe on cooking day.

Ingredients

1 fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
8 oz regular bacon strips (avoid thick cuts)
1 lb chicken thighs, no skin or bones
3/4 cup of homemade teriyaki sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by slicing the chicken thighs into small, bite-sized cubes. This will allow for even cooking and easy skewering. Set the chicken aside, making sure not to crowd the pieces in the bowl.

Step 2: Get the Bacon Ready

Next, take your regular bacon strips out of the packaging. To enhance their flexibility for wrapping, gently stretch each strip along its length. If you’re using center-cut bacon, cut it in half; otherwise, you should divide long strips into thirds for optimal wrapping. This will maximize coverage and ensure that every piece of chicken gets enveloped in delicious bacon.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

With the chicken and bacon prepared, it’s time to assemble your skewers. Set up a station that includes your chicken cubes, the bacon pieces, and the pineapple chunks. Start by wrapping each chicken cube in a slice of bacon then slide it onto a skewer, following each piece with a chunk of pineapple. Maintain a pattern: two bacon-wrapped chicken pieces followed by one pineapple chunk. Repeat this until your skewers are filled, letting the delicious ingredients create a beautiful visual.

Step 4: Marinate the Skewers

Place your assembled skewers in a large baking dish, ideally one that measures around 9×13 inches. Drizzle the teriyaki sauce generously over the skewers—all while reserving about a quarter cup for later use. This marinating process is crucial, as it allows the flavors of the teriyaki sauce to infuse the chicken and bacon deeply. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 4 to 8 hours. If time allows, allow them to marinate overnight; the longer, the better!

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

After marinating, preheat your grill to a temperature of 350ºF to 400ºF. Once it’s hot, lay the skewers over the grill grates. Using a brush, baste some of your reserved teriyaki sauce over the skewers to keep them moist while cooking. Grill the skewers for about 7 minutes before flipping them, and baste again. Continue to grill for another 7 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked. Make sure to monitor the skewers closely to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Variations

Protein: Substitute chicken thighs with shrimp or firm tofu for a seafood twist or a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, red onion, or zucchini between the chicken and pineapple for extra flavor and crunch.
Spices: Feel free to spice it up by adding chili flakes or ginger for a bit of a kick, or even try a different sauce like a spicy peanut sauce!

Cooking Notes

Try to use fresh ingredients where possible for the best flavor.
Ensure bacon is not too thick; thick cuts may not cook all the way through in the time required.
Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling before serving, as this allows juices to redistribute for more flavor.
Consider pairing these skewers with a refreshing dipping sauce, such as sweet chili or additional teriyaki sauce!

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of jasmine rice to soak up the delicious juices.
Pair with a light salad of mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
Try them with grilled corn on the cob to complete your barbecue platter.

Tips

To make cleanup easier, line your baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
For the perfect grill marks, don’t move the skewers around too much.
If you’re short on time, marinate briefly; even 30 minutes can enhance flavor.
Experiment with different types of teriyaki sauce brands for varied taste!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes (excluding marinating time)
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 4 to 8 hours (includes marinating time)

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but keep in mind that chicken breast tends to dry out more easily than thighs. Ensure not to overcook them.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Can I make these skewers in the oven?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400ºF and bake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for approximately 20-25 minutes.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, while homemade is recommended for freshness, a good-quality store-bought option works just fine!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Juicy Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are not only a flavorful addition to your grilling repertoire but also an opportunity to impress guests with minimal effort. Marinated to perfection, wrapped in bacon, and paired with pineapple, they are essential for any barbecue or casual gathering. Even more satisfying, each bite bursts with the perfect marriage of sweet and savory. Whether enjoyed alone or with excellent side dishes, this recipe is one to be cherished! Don’t hesitate to leave your thoughts in the comments or share your variations of this delightful recipe. Let the grilling adventures begin!