There’s something incredibly satisfying about skewering juicy chicken pieces and brushing them with a fiery, sweet Korean BBQ sauce. The moment you take that first bite, you’re greeted with a delightful dance of flavors: the deep umami of soy sauce, the playful heat from gochujang, and a gentle kiss of honey rounding everything out. It’s a dish that feels festive and intimate all at once, like the best kind of gathering with friends and family. Whether you’re firing up the grill in your backyard or using a trusty grill pan by the stove, these skewers promise to deliver big, bold taste without demanding professional chef skills.
One of the reasons I adore this recipe is how approachable it is for even the most novice cook. With a prep time that mostly involves letting the chicken soak up the marinade and a quick 15-minute sizzle on the grill, you get restaurant-worthy results in about an hour total. Marinating overnight is my secret tip for maximum flavor infusion, but even a one-hour chill does wonders. On busy weeknights or lazy weekends, you’ll find this becoming your go-to for easy dinner magic. And let’s not forget: the gorgeous char marks and vibrant green onion garnish make these skewers a total showstopper at any summer BBQ or cozy indoor gathering.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHICKEN SKEWERS WITH KOREAN BBQ SAUCE
Before diving into the action, let’s take a moment to appreciate the stars of this recipe. Each component plays its part: from the robust chicken thighs that stay tender and moist, to the fermented chili paste that brings that signature Korean kick. Gathering these ingredients ensures every bite is perfectly balanced and bursting with flavor.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
These succulent cuts stay juicy under high heat, offering rich, buttery texture that soaks up every bit of marinade. Cutting them into uniform pieces guarantees even cooking and consistent bites.
- Wooden skewers
When soaked for at least 30 minutes, these prevent flare-ups and burning on the grill. They’re the perfect vessel for threading chicken chunks so you can flip and brush with ease.
- Soy sauce
A cornerstone of the marinade, soy sauce delivers savory depth and essential saltiness. It marries beautifully with sweeter and tangier elements to create that classic Korean BBQ profile.
- Korean gochujang (fermented chili paste)
This red paste is the heart of the sauce. It provides a complex blend of heat, sweetness, and fermented umami, giving the skewers their signature bold flavor.
- Honey
A natural sweetener that balances the chili’s fire. It also helps the chicken develop a glossy, caramelized exterior as it grills.
- Sesame oil
With its nutty aroma and delicate richness, sesame oil adds another layer of flavor that rounds out the marinade and enhances the overall fragrance.
- Rice vinegar
A touch of acidity brightens the mix, cutting through richness and creating a harmonious taste profile.
- Garlic
Minced garlic infuses the marinade with a pungent bite, enhancing the savory notes and adding aromatic complexity.
- Ginger
Freshly grated ginger introduces a crisp, spicy zing that lifts the marinade and refreshes the palate.
- Vegetable oil
A light coating on the grill grate or pan prevents sticking, ensuring those skewers release cleanly and develop beautiful char marks.
- Sesame seeds
Sprinkled at the end, these seeds contribute a subtle crunch and a toasty finish, making every bite interesting.
- Green onions
Finely chopped, they offer a pop of color and fresh, mild onion flavor as a bright garnish.
HOW TO MAKE CHICKEN SKEWERS WITH KOREAN BBQ SAUCE
Let’s walk through the step-by-step magic behind these skewers. With clear instructions and a few simple kitchen tools, you’ll be well on your way to creating a memorable meal.
1. Soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. This simple prep step ensures your skewers stay intact and safe against high heat.
2. In a small mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, gochujang, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk together until smooth, creating a thick, vibrant marinade. Set half aside for brushing later and use the rest for marinating.
3. Place the cut chicken thigh pieces in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour—or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan indoors, lightly oil it with vegetable oil and heat over medium-high. Aim for a sizzling surface that will sear the chicken beautifully.
5. Remove the chicken from its marinade and thread the pieces onto the soaked skewers, spreading them out evenly. Discard the used marinade in the bag or dish.
6. Lightly brush the grill grate or pan surface with a little extra vegetable oil to prevent sticking and encourage those coveted char marks.
7. Place the chicken skewers on the grill or grill pan, turning occasionally, and cook for about 12–15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and develops a nice charred edge.
8. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the reserved marinade over the skewers for an extra layer of tangy-sweet flavor and beautiful gloss.
9. Once cooked, transfer the skewers to a platter and sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for texture and a fresh pop of color.
10. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides—think steamed rice, crisp salad, or tangy pickled veggies—and relish every spicy-sweet bite.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHICKEN SKEWERS WITH KOREAN BBQ SAUCE
When these skewers come sizzling off the grill, there’s a whole world of tasty accompaniments waiting to elevate your meal. From bright, crunchy salads to pillowy rice bowls, the right sides can transform these Korean BBQ–glazed delights into a full-fledged feast. Here are some of my favorite ways to plate and pair these skewers so your dinner feels like a culinary celebration, no matter the occasion.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice
A soft, fragrant bed of jasmine rice perfectly soaks up the extra sauce from the skewers. Scoop a heaping portion onto each plate before laying your skewers on top for a satisfying, saucy bite.
- Crisp Cucumber Salad
Thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in a simple rice vinegar dressing offer a cool, refreshing contrast. Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or toasted sesame seeds to echo the flavors in your marinade.
- Kimchi or Pickled Vegetables
Bring in some tangy crunch with store-bought or homemade kimchi. The sharp, fermented notes cut through the richness of the chicken, creating a well-balanced flavor experience.
- Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Pair chicken with bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion on separate skewers. Grill alongside the meat for a colorful, veggie-packed platter that everyone will love.
HOW TO STORE CHICKEN SKEWERS WITH KOREAN BBQ SAUCE
Want to make these skewers ahead or save leftovers for a quick meal later? Proper storage helps maintain their juiciness and that irresistible Korean BBQ glaze. By following a few simple tips, you’ll preserve the texture and flavors so it tastes nearly fresh when reheated.
- Refrigerate in Airtight Containers
Place cooled skewers in a shallow, airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, ensuring the chicken remains tender and the sauce stays clinging to the meat.
- Freeze for Longer Storage
For meals beyond a few days, wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat Gently
To keep chicken from drying out, reheat in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a lined baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm for about 10 minutes. Remove the foil in the last few minutes to revive the char.
- Store Extra Marinade Separately
If you made extra reserved marinade, keep it in a small sealed jar in the fridge. Use it as a dipping sauce or drizzle it over reheated skewers for an extra flavor boost.
CONCLUSION
Cooking these Chicken Skewers with Korean BBQ Sauce is like discovering a flavor-packed shortcut to unforgettable gatherings. We covered everything—from gathering your key ingredients, like soy sauce and gochujang, to mastering the grilling technique and creating a bright, balanced meal that’s perfect for both dinner and appetizer courses. With just one hour of prep, including a quick marinating session, followed by 15 minutes on the grill and a short rest period, you’ll achieve tender, char-kissed chicken bursting with spicy-sweet goodness. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced home cook, this recipe is designed for success and guaranteed to impress. Feel free to print this article and save it in your recipe binder for easy reference next time you crave a delicious weeknight dinner or plan a fun weekend BBQ.
Below, you’ll also find a handy FAQ section to answer any lingering questions about substitutions, cooking variations, or dietary tweaks. We love hearing from you—so if you try this recipe, please leave a comment or share your experience! Do you have questions about technique, alternative ingredients, or pairing suggestions? Drop them below, and let’s chat. Your feedback helps us refine and expand our recipes, ensuring every home cook feels confident and inspired. Happy grilling!
Chicken Skewers with Korean BBQ Sauce
Description
These chicken skewers bring a burst of flavor with every bite, featuring tender marinated meat and a spicy-sweet Korean BBQ sauce that's irresistible. Perfect for summer BBQs!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Start by soaking your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
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In a small mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, gochujang, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk together until smooth and set aside.
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Place the cut chicken thigh pieces in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken pieces, reserving the other half for later. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan indoors, lightly oil it with the vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat.
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Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread the pieces onto the soaked skewers, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Discard the used marinade.
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Lightly brush the grill grate or grill pan surface with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
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Place the chicken skewers on the grill or grill pan, turning occasionally, and cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
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During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the reserved marinade over the skewers for added flavor.
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Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
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Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as steamed rice or a fresh salad.
Note
- Go ahead and customize the marinade spice level by adjusting the amount of gochujang.
- Soaking the skewers is a key step to avoid burning them during grilling.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- You can use chicken breast if preferred, though thighs offer more juiciness.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables.
- Perfect dish for a summer BBQ or weekend party.
