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Grilled Korean BBQ chicken skewers on a white plate garnished with green onions and sesame seeds

Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers

These Korean BBQ chicken skewers are a deliciously easy grilled Korean chicken recipe featuring a savory-sweet marinade that makes them unforgettable. Perfect for a healthy grilled chicken thighs recipe, these skewers pack a punch with vibrant flavors and great nutrition.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 36 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup coconut aminos (may sub soy sauce or tamari)
  • 2 tablespoons pure honey
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha (may sub gochujang or another hot sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (1 tablespoon)
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (may sub 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • 1 teaspoon Chinese 5-spice powder
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (may use chicken breasts)
  • 3 cups hot cooked rice Optional for Serving
  • 3 – 4 pieces green onions, sliced Optional for Serving
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds Optional for Serving

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, honey, sesame oil, Sriracha, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and Chinese 5-spice powder until well combined.
  • Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut into 1 ½ to 2-inch cubes. Add to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours.
  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 350°F to 450°F) and lightly oil the grates. Do not discard the leftover marinade.
  • Thread marinated chicken onto 5–6 skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking.
  • Grill skewers for 6–8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • While the chicken cooks, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.
  • Combine cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Once the marinade has boiled for a minute, reduce the heat, stir in the slurry, and simmer for 30 seconds until thickened into a glaze.
  • Brush the glaze over the skewers while they’re still on the grill, turning and coating on all sides.
  • Remove from heat, let rest for 3–5 minutes, and serve with rice, green onions, and sesame seeds if desired.