Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful, and healthy dinner that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! These Teriyaki Chicken Kabobs are the perfect solution for a quick weeknight meal or a fun weekend barbecue. Tender chicken marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, then grilled to perfection – it's a recipe that's guaranteed to impress your family and friends. This recipe is packed with flavor, and it's surprisingly quick to prepare, making it one of the best recipes for busy weeknights. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes if using wooden skewers)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Make the Teriyaki Marinade:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, mirin, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic until well combined. This homemade teriyaki sauce is the heart of this dish.
Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 2-4 hours for maximum flavor. Longer marinating times result in more tender and flavorful chicken.
Assemble the Kabobs:
- Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables onto the prepared skewers, alternating between chicken and vegetables for an appealing look.
Grill the Kabobs:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the kabobs for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve the teriyaki chicken kabobs with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
- Other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms.
- Alternative cooking method: You can also bake these kabobs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make it ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to save time. Assemble the kabobs just before grilling or baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a healthy and delicious meal option. The teriyaki chicken kabobs are a fantastic choice for quick dinner ideas and are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this delightful addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and healthy meals!