Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers That’ll Make Dinner Your Favorite Meal

Have you ever noticed how the simplest recipes often create the most unforgettable meals? That’s exactly what happens with these honey garlic chicken skewers. The first time I made these honey garlic chicken skewers was for my daughter’s birthday barbecue, and they disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. There’s something magical about the combination of sweet honey, pungent garlic, and juicy chicken that makes everyone reach for seconds (and thirds!).

These skewers have become my go-to recipe for everything from casual weeknight dinners to backyard gatherings. They’re incredibly versatile, requiring minimal prep time but delivering maximum flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting your culinary journey, these honey garlic chicken skewers promise to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients for Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Honey garlic chicken skewers start with quality ingredients that blend sweet, savory, and tangy notes into one irresistible flavor profile. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this crowd-pleasing dish:

For the skewers:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 bell peppers (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large red onion, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 8-10 wooden or metal skewers

For the honey garlic marinade:

• 1/3 cup honey (local is best for rich flavor)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium works well)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

For garnish:

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)

Can’t find chicken thighs? Chicken breasts work just as well, though they tend to be slightly less juicy. For a vegetarian version, extra-firm tofu makes an excellent protein substitute after being pressed and dried thoroughly.

Timing

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Marinating time: 30 minutes (minimum) to overnight (best)
• Cook time: 10-12 minutes
• Total time: About 1 hour (with minimum marinating time)

You’ll spend less time actually working on these honey garlic chicken skewers than you might think—most of the time is hands-off marinating, which is what makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep Sundays.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, rice vinegar, grated ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined. The marinade should have a smooth, slightly thick consistency that will cling to the chicken. Set aside 1/4 cup of the marinade for basting during cooking.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour the remaining marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and gently massage the marinade into the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though overnight marinating will yield the most flavorful honey garlic chicken skewers.

Pro tip: Don’t skip the marinating time! This is where the magic happens as the honey tenderizes the meat while the garlic and other flavors infuse deeply into each piece.

3. Soak Wooden Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning during cooking. Metal skewers can skip this step.

4. Assemble the Skewers

When ready to cook, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of bell pepper and red onion. Leave a small space between each piece to ensure even cooking.

5. Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.

6. Grill the Skewers

Place the honey garlic chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure even browning. Brush with the reserved marinade during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has beautiful grill marks. Be careful not to overcook, as chicken can quickly dry out.

7. Rest and Garnish

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in juicier chicken. Sprinkle with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if desired.

Nutritional Information for Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Per serving (2 skewers):

• Calories: 285
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 1.5g
• Sugar: 15g (mostly from honey)

These honey garlic chicken skewers are not only delicious but also nutritionally balanced. The chicken provides lean protein that helps build and repair muscles, while the bell peppers contribute vitamins A and C for immune support. The honey adds natural sweetness with trace minerals, and garlic brings heart-healthy compounds that may help lower cholesterol.

Equipment Needed for Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

To make these honey garlic chicken skewers with ease, you’ll need:

• Grill (gas, charcoal, or even an indoor grill pan)
• Skewers (8-10 wooden or metal)
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Meat thermometer
• Pastry brush (for basting)
• Tongs (for turning skewers)

Don’t have a grill? No problem! These honey garlic chicken skewers can also be made under a broiler. Just place them on a foil-lined baking sheet and broil for 5-6 minutes per side, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Why You’ll Love These Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

There are countless reasons these honey garlic chicken skewers have become a reader favorite on HarmonyMeal:

• They’re incredibly versatile – perfect for casual dinners, meal prep, or entertaining
• The sweet-savory flavor profile appeals to both adults and picky eaters
• Prep work can be done ahead of time, making dinner assembly quick and stress-free
• They cook in just 10-12 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
• Leftovers (if you have any!) make excellent lunch bowls or wraps the next day

My family particularly loves how customizable these skewers are. My husband adds extra red pepper flakes to his portion, while my daughter prefers hers with extra bell peppers. It’s one of those rare recipes that please everyone without extra work.

Healthier Alternatives for Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

While these honey garlic chicken skewers are already relatively healthy, here are some modifications to suit various dietary needs:

• Lower-sugar option: Reduce honey to 2 tablespoons and add 1 tablespoon of orange juice for sweetness
• Gluten-free version: Substitute coconut aminos or tamari for the soy sauce
• Keto-friendly: Replace honey with a monk fruit sweetener blend and use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce
• Paleo adaptation: Use raw honey and coconut aminos instead of soy sauce
• Vegetarian option: Substitute extra-firm tofu (pressed) or tempeh for the chicken

You can also add more vegetables to these honey garlic chicken skewers to increase the nutritional value. Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms all work beautifully with the marinade and cook in about the same time as the chicken.

Serving Suggestions for Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

These honey garlic chicken skewers are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options:

• Classic dinner: Serve over fluffy jasmine rice or coconut rice with steamed broccoli
• Low-carb meal: Pair with cauliflower rice and a simple cucumber salad
• Party presentation: Remove from skewers and arrange on a platter with dipping sauce
• Lunch option: Serve in warm pita pockets with tzatziki sauce and mixed greens
• Family-style: Create a build-your-own rice bowl bar with various toppings

For a complete Asian-inspired feast, check out our Asian Cucumber Salad from HarmonyMeal as a perfect cool, crunchy side dish.

I love serving these skewers with a simple sauce made from Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. The cool, tangy flavor perfectly complements the sweet honey garlic glaze on the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Even experienced cooks can sometimes struggle with skewers. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

1. Cutting chicken pieces inconsistently: Uneven pieces cook at different rates, leaving some overcooked and others undercooked. Take the extra minute to cut uniform 1-inch cubes.

2. Overcrowding the skewers: Packing ingredients too tightly prevents proper cooking. Leave small gaps between pieces to ensure heat circulates properly.

3. Cooking at too high heat: The honey in these honey garlic chicken skewers can burn quickly. Keep to medium-high heat and turn frequently.

4. Not using a meat thermometer: Visual cues aren’t always reliable for chicken. Invest in a good meat thermometer and cook to 165°F for perfect, safe results every time.

5. Skipping the resting period: Cutting into the skewers immediately after grilling allows juices to escape. Let them rest for 3-5 minutes to stay juicy.

Storing Tips for Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

These honey garlic chicken skewers are perfect for meal prep and store beautifully:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I recommend removing the meat and vegetables from the skewers for more compact storage.

• Freezing: You can freeze the fully cooked skewers (removed from wooden sticks) for up to 2 months. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.

• Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the chicken rubbery.

• Make-ahead prep: You can prepare and marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it refrigerated until ready to cook.

• Ready-to-cook freezer meal: Marinate the chicken, then freeze it in the marinade. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to use, then thread onto skewers and cook.

Conclusion

These honey garlic chicken skewers have earned their place as one of the most beloved recipes on HarmonyMeal for good reason. They strike that perfect balance between ease and impact, delivering crave-worthy flavor with minimal effort. The sticky-sweet glaze caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

What I love most about these honey garlic chicken skewers is their versatility. They can be dressed up for company or kept simple for a family dinner. They’re equally at home alongside a sophisticated grain salad or a simple side of rice.

Have you tried making these honey garlic chicken skewers yet? Drop a comment below to let me know how they turned out, or tag @HarmonyMeal on Instagram with your creations! And if you’re looking for more easy weeknight dinner ideas, check out our Quick Weeknight Dinners collection for inspiration.

FAQs About Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

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