Craving a delicious and easy dinner that’s bursting with vibrant flavors? Look no further than these delightful Filipino Chicken Skewers! This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy, making it a crowd-pleaser for both weeknight dinners and weekend barbecues. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's surprisingly quick to prepare, showcasing the best of Filipino cuisine. Get ready to experience a taste of the tropics!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or lime juice)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 12-15 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
Marinating the Chicken (the key to amazing flavor!):
- In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, calamansi juice, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor absorption. This step is crucial for tender and flavorful skewers!
Assembling and Grilling:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a stovetop grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked skewers. Try to keep the pieces fairly evenly spaced.
- Grill the skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred. For stovetop grilling, cook for about 2-3 minutes per side. Use tongs to turn the skewers regularly to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these delicious skewers hot, straight off the grill. They’re fantastic on their own, but even better with a side of steamed rice, a vibrant Filipino-style salad, or a simple dipping sauce like a spicy mayo or sweet chili sauce. This is a quick dinner idea that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Tips for the Best Filipino Chicken Skewers:
- Don't skip the marinating: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will be.
- Soak your skewers: Soaking the skewers in water prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Watch the heat: Keep a close eye on the chicken while it's grilling to prevent burning.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet marinade, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
Variations:
- Add some veggies: Include bell peppers, onions, or zucchini on the skewers for added color and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicier kick.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with pork, beef, or shrimp for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and serving size, but a single serving should contain approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a great example of delicious dishes you can make with simple ingredients, elevating your homemade cooking to a whole new level. Enjoy!