Irresistible Chinese Chicken Skewers: Sweet, Sticky & Perfectly Charred

Embark on an epicurean adventure to the heart of Chinese-inspired flavors with our utterly irresistible Chinese chicken skewers. These aren’t just any ordinary chicken skewers; they’re a culinary masterpiece, glazed with a sweet and savory sauce that evokes the best of Asian cuisine. Prepare yourself for a friendly battle at the dinner table, as everyone vies for the last juicy skewer – they’re simply that good!

Imagine tender chicken pieces, marinated to perfection, then grilled or baked until lightly charred, boasting a sticky, glistening glaze. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and umami notes, making these Chinese chicken skewers one of the simplest yet most profoundly flavorful dishes you can create at home. If you’ve ever felt intimidated by the thought of making such a delicious meal, rest assured: this recipe is designed for ease, promising impressive results with minimal effort. Don’t hesitate – give it a try and discover a new family favorite!

Versatility is key with this recipe. While our detailed guide will walk you through achieving perfect results on a griddle pan, these flavorful skewers are equally magnificent when baked in the oven or grilled on the BBQ. Whichever method you choose, you’re guaranteed a dish that’s bursting with authentic taste and delightful textures.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its commitment to flavor without waste. The delectable marinade doesn’t just tenderize the chicken; any remaining marinade is transformed into a rich, sticky, sweet sauce. Briefly cooked down to a luscious consistency, this sauce is then brushed over the freshly cooked, tender chicken, adding a final layer of glorious flavor and an irresistible sheen. Get ready for sticky fingers and a table full of satisfied smiles!

Why You’ll Adore These Chinese Chicken Skewers

There are countless reasons to fall in love with our Chinese Chicken Skewers, making them a standout addition to your recipe repertoire:

• Effortless Excellence: This recipe delivers impressively delicious results with remarkable ease, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
• Zero Waste, Maximum Flavor: Our clever technique transforms leftover marinade into a rich, sticky glaze, ensuring every drop of flavor is utilized and nothing goes to waste.
• Adaptable Cooking: Whether you prefer the char of a griddle pan, the even cook of an oven, or the smoky notes of a BBQ, this recipe is incredibly versatile and accommodates various cooking methods.
• Family Favorite: The sweet and savory profile appeals to all ages, guaranteeing these skewers will be a hit with both children and adults.
• Authentic Taste, Simplified: Experience the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine without needing specialized ingredients or complex cooking techniques.

If you enjoy the delectable flavors of these skewers, you absolutely must also try our Oven-Baked Bang Bang Chicken Skewers for another exciting Asian-inspired dish!

Key Ingredients and Smart Substitutions for Perfect Skewers

Understanding your ingredients is the first step to culinary success. Here’s a breakdown of the key components for these fantastic Chinese chicken skewers, along with helpful substitution tips. For the complete list of ingredients and precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Choosing the Best Chicken Thighs

For the ultimate in flavor and juiciness, we highly recommend using skinless and boneless chicken thighs. This choice simplifies preparation considerably, allowing you to focus on the marinating and cooking process. Chicken thighs, often referred to as “brown meat,” are renowned for their richer flavor and higher fat content compared to chicken breasts. This inherent quality makes them incredibly tender and much less prone to drying out during cooking, even if you slightly overcook them. The result is consistently moist and flavorful chicken every time.

While you certainly can debone chicken thighs yourself, it can be a bit tricky to achieve uniform pieces if you’re not an experienced butcher. If perfectly shaped chunks are important to you, or if you simply want to save time and effort, opting for pre-skinned and deboned thighs from your local butcher or supermarket is a fantastic choice. Let the professionals handle the fiddly bits!

How to Cut and Thread Your Chicken Skewers for Even Cooking

The way you prepare your chicken pieces for skewering is crucial for ensuring even cooking and maximum flavor absorption. Cut the chicken thighs into large, bite-sized chunks. Unlike chicken breasts, deboned thigh meat often has a more irregular shape. Don’t worry about achieving perfect cubes. If you find some pieces are longer and thinner, simply fold them in half before threading them onto the skewer. This technique creates a thicker, more consistent piece that cooks evenly alongside the others.

The goal is to ensure all chicken pieces on a skewer are roughly the same size. This consistency prevents smaller pieces from overcooking and drying out while larger ones are still raw. When threading, pack the pieces relatively close together, but not so tightly that heat cannot circulate. For reference, with approximately 900g (2 lb) of chicken thighs, threading about four pieces onto each skewer typically yields around eight delicious skewers in total. This quantity may vary slightly depending on the exact size of your chicken thighs, so adjust as needed.

Dark Soy Sauce vs. Light Soy Sauce: A Flavorful Choice

For this recipe, we lean towards dark soy sauce. Its distinct qualities include a richer, more complex flavor profile, a beautiful darker hue, and a deeper, more pronounced umami taste that truly elevates the marinade. It also has a slightly thicker consistency, contributing to the sticky glaze. However, if dark soy sauce isn’t readily available or if you prefer a lighter flavor and color, light soy sauce is a perfectly acceptable and common substitute in many Asian chicken marinades. Feel free to use what you have on hand – the skewers will still be delicious!

Rice Vinegar Alternatives

Rice vinegar provides a subtle tang that balances the sweetness and savoriness of the marinade. If you don’t have rice vinegar, excellent substitutes include apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. Both offer a similar mild acidity that will work well in the recipe without overpowering the other flavors.

Garlic and Ginger: Fresh vs. Prepared

The vibrant flavors of garlic and ginger are essential to this Chinese-inspired marinade. While finely chopped fresh garlic and grated fresh ginger can certainly be used, we often opt for garlic paste and ground ginger for convenience. The paste and ground forms blend seamlessly into the marinade, ensuring an even distribution of flavor throughout the chicken. If you prefer the pungency and texture of fresh ingredients, go ahead and use finely minced fresh garlic and freshly grated ginger. As a quick alternative, a generous teaspoon of garlic powder can also be used if fresh or paste is unavailable.

Crafting the Perfect Chinese Chicken Skewers: A Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions to create mouthwatering Chinese chicken skewers that are sure to impress. Each step is designed to ensure maximum flavor and perfect texture.

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients: dark soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic paste, ground ginger, Chinese five spice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the sugar has dissolved. This creates the flavor foundation for your delicious skewers.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Place your large bite-sized chunks of skinless, boneless chicken thighs into a spacious bowl. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken. Using a spoon or clean hands, toss the chicken pieces to ensure every single piece is fully coated in the aromatic marinade. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with maximum flavor.

3. Chill for Flavor: Cover the bowl containing the marinating chicken tightly with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator and allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. For an even deeper, more intense flavor profile, you can extend the marinating time up to overnight. This longer soak ensures the chicken is incredibly tender and packed with taste.

4. Prepare the Skewers (if using wood/bamboo): While the chicken is marinating, if you are using wooden or bamboo skewers, immerse them in cold water for about 15 minutes. This soaking step is particularly important if you plan to cook the chicken on a BBQ, as it helps prevent the wooden sticks from burning or catching fire during cooking. If you’re using metal skewers, you can safely skip this step.

5. Thread the Chicken: Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto your prepared skewers. Arrange the chicken chunks closely together, ensuring there are no large gaps. If you have any longer, thinner pieces of chicken, simply fold them in half before piercing them with the skewer. This method helps maintain even thickness for consistent cooking. The number of chicken pieces per skewer is flexible, so add as much or as little as you prefer, keeping in mind even cooking.

6. Cook Down the Marinade into a Sauce: Carefully pour any remaining marinade from the chicken bowl into a small saucepan or frying pan. Before cooking, ensure you remove any large bits of raw chicken that might have inadvertently fallen into the liquid.

7. Thicken the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the marinade to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce visibly thickens and becomes wonderfully sticky. The brown sugar in the marinade will caramelize and contribute to this luscious texture. To test for readiness, you should be able to draw a line through the sauce with a spoon that disappears slowly (in about a second). Crucially, thoroughly cook this sauce as it contained raw chicken. This step ensures it is entirely safe for consumption.

8. Griddle Pan Cooking (Initial Sear): Generously oil your griddle pan and heat it over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking. Carefully arrange the chicken skewers on the griddle, ensuring there’s enough space between them for proper heat circulation. Immediately reduce the heat to medium and cook the skewers undisturbed for 3 minutes. For more even cooking, especially thicker pieces, you can cover the pan with a lid during this initial phase.

9. Continue Cooking & Check Doneness: Turn the skewers over and cook for an additional 3 minutes undisturbed on the other flat side. Then, rotate the skewers onto their narrower sides, cooking for approximately 1.5-2 minutes per side. Aim for some appealing charring on the chicken, as this adds a delicious smoky depth of flavor. To verify doneness, slice open the thickest piece of chicken right to the center – there should be absolutely no pinkness, and any juices should run clear. For precise assurance, an internal meat thermometer should register 74°C (165°F). Continue cooking longer on all sides if necessary until the chicken is fully cooked through.

10. Glaze with Sauce: Once the chicken skewers are perfectly cooked, use a pastry brush to generously coat each skewer with the delicious, cooked-down marinade sauce you prepared earlier. This final glaze adds an incredible shine and intensifies the sweet and sticky flavor.

11. Garnish and Serve: Serve your magnificent Chinese chicken skewers immediately. For an added touch of freshness and visual appeal, sprinkle them with sesame seeds, finely sliced spring onions (also known as green onions), or freshly chopped coriander. Enjoy your flavorful creation!

Alternative Cooking Method: Oven-Baked Chinese Chicken Skewers

For a hands-off approach that still yields incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken skewers, baking them in the oven is an excellent choice. This method is perfect for preparing a larger batch or when you prefer not to use a griddle or BBQ.

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even cooking from the moment the skewers go in.
• Prepare your baking sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Arrange the skewers: Place the marinated and threaded chicken skewers onto the prepared baking sheet. Ensure there is some space between each skewer to allow hot air to circulate freely. This promotes even cooking and prevents the chicken from steaming.
• Bake to perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time (around the 10-12 minute mark), gently turn the skewers to ensure all sides cook evenly and develop a nice golden-brown hue.
• Check for doneness: To confirm the chicken is fully cooked, slice into a thick piece right to the center. There should be no pinkness, and the juices should run clear. Alternatively, use a reliable meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). If needed, bake for a few more minutes until done.
• Final glaze: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the oven. Using a pastry brush, generously coat each chicken skewer with the cooked, reduced marinade sauce you prepared earlier. This adds that signature sticky, sweet finish.

Alternative Cooking Method: BBQ-Grilled Chinese Chicken Skewers

There’s nothing quite like the smoky flavor and char that a BBQ grill imparts to chicken skewers. This method is fantastic for outdoor cooking and adds another layer of delicious complexity to your Chinese chicken on a stick.

• Prepare your grill: If using a charcoal grill, spread the charcoal evenly to create consistent heat across the cooking surface. For a gas grill, preheat it to a medium level. On larger BBQs, consider creating direct and indirect heat zones by having a hotter area for searing and a cooler area for finishing.
• Manage the heat and cover: If your BBQ has a lid, use it while cooking. This helps to maintain a more consistent temperature, reduce flare-ups from dripping marinade, and create an oven-like environment for more even cooking.
• Prevent sticking: Before placing the skewers, brush the BBQ grates thoroughly with oil. This essential step prevents the marinated chicken from sticking, ensuring easy flipping and beautiful grill marks.
• Grill the skewers: Place the marinated and threaded skewers on the preheated BBQ. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on one side, allowing it to develop a lovely char. Then, turn the skewers and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side. Continue turning and cooking until all sides are nicely browned and charred.
• Check for doneness: As with other methods, ensure the chicken is fully cooked by slicing into the thickest part; it should be opaque with clear juices. Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Adjust cooking time as needed.
• Apply the glaze: Once the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks, remove it from the direct heat. Generously brush each chicken skewer with the pre-cooked and reduced marinade sauce using a pastry brush, ensuring a sticky and flavorful finish.

Delicious Variations to Customize Your Chinese Chicken Skewers

While our base recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, these Chinese chicken skewers are incredibly versatile and lend themselves beautifully to customization. Experiment with these variations to tailor the flavors to your preference:

• Kick Up the Heat: For those who love a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade. You can also swap the black pepper for white pepper for a more subtle, earthy heat.
• Citrus Zest: Introduce a bright, fresh note by grating in the zest of an orange or lemon into the marinade. The citrus beautifully complements the savory and sweet flavors.
• Garlicky Goodness: If you’re a garlic enthusiast, increase the amount of garlic paste or finely chopped fresh garlic in the marinade for an extra pungent kick.
• Nutty Richness: For a deeper, more indulgent flavor, incorporate a spoonful of smooth peanut butter or almond butter into the marinade. This adds a wonderful nutty richness and helps thicken the glaze.
• Veggie Power: Make it a more complete meal by alternating pieces of chicken with wide slices of colorful green or red bell pepper, sweet onion, or even chunks of pineapple on the skewers. The pineapple adds a fantastic sweet and tangy element when grilled.
• Umami Boost with Sauces: Enhance the umami depth by adding a tablespoon of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce to the marinade. These sauces bring a complex, savory sweetness that perfectly complements the chicken.
• Pineapple Sweetness: For a tropical twist, swap the honey in the marinade for an equal amount of pineapple juice. This will add a fruity sweetness and tenderize the chicken.

Elevate Your Meal: Inspired Serving Suggestions

These Chinese chicken skewers are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide array of sides, transforming them from a simple appetizer into a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some delectable serving suggestions to inspire you:

• Classic Rice or Noodles: Serve the skewers over a fluffy bed of steamed jasmine rice or alongside a generous portion of flavorful Sriracha noodles for a hearty and traditional Asian meal.
• Vibrant Vegetables: Complement the rich chicken with a side of stir-fried or roasted vegetables. Think crisp tenderstem broccoli, colorful bell peppers, crunchy snap peas, or even sautéed bok choy. Try our roasted tenderstem broccoli with parmesan and pine nuts for an interesting twist.
• Refreshing Asian Slaw: A light and refreshing Asian slaw, made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing, provides a wonderful contrast to the sticky chicken.
• Dipping Sauces: Offer a small bowl of homemade dipping sauce. A simple blend of soy sauce, a dash of sesame oil, and a splash of rice vinegar can add an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, a rich and creamy peanut sauce or a classic homemade Teriyaki sauce makes an excellent accompaniment.
• Steamed Buns (Bao): For a fun and interactive meal, serve the chicken skewers with soft steamed buns. Let everyone create their own mini chicken bao by stuffing the buns with chicken and their favorite toppings.
• Healthy Grain Salads: Opt for a lighter yet equally satisfying option with a quinoa salad mixed with colorful vegetables and a zesty citrus dressing. Or explore a vibrant rainbow salad with Chinese-inspired dressing for a fresh and wholesome side.

Storage, Reheating, and Freezing Your Chicken Skewers

Proper handling and storage ensure your delicious Chinese chicken skewers remain fresh and tasty for future enjoyment. Here’s how to store, reheat, and even freeze them:

Storage

To maintain their freshness and flavor, store any leftover Chinese chicken skewers in an airtight container. It’s crucial to allow the skewers to cool completely to room temperature before refrigerating them. Properly stored, they will remain delicious for 2-3 days in the fridge. For optimal taste and texture, we recommend consuming them within this timeframe.

Reheating

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you have a couple of excellent reheating options. You can use either the microwave or the oven. If opting for the microwave, place the chicken skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover them loosely to help retain moisture. Heat them in short intervals, checking frequently, to avoid overcooking which can lead to dry chicken. For oven reheating, arrange the skewers on a baking sheet and warm them up at a moderate temperature (around 160°C/325°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Again, be mindful not to overheat.

Freezing

If you wish to prepare a larger batch or save some for later, these chicken skewers freeze beautifully. Once completely cooled, place the chicken skewers in a freezer-safe container, or wrap them tightly individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer bag. Ensure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. Label the container or bag with the date. For best quality, consume the frozen skewers within 1-2 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before warming them up using one of the reheating methods described above. This slow thawing helps to preserve their texture and taste.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Chicken Skewers

Discover More Asian-Inspired Culinary Delights

If you’ve enjoyed the authentic flavors of these Chinese chicken skewers, we invite you to explore more of our delicious Asian-inspired recipes that are perfect for any home cook:

Quick and Easy Noodles with Prawns

Dragon Noodles (Sriracha Noodles)

Deconstructed Sushi Salad Bowl

Yuk Sung – Classic Chinese Lettuce Wraps

Quick Gyoza Dipping Sauce

Easy Khao Pad – Thai Fried Rice