Name: Irresistibly Spicy Korean Chicken Skewers for Perfect Grilling
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 285 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1.5-inch cubes); 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (or 1 tsp ground ginger as substitute); 2 cloves minced garlic (or 1 tsp ground garlic as substitute); 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark varieties); 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or white wine vinegar as alternative); 3 tablespoons gochujang (or mix equal parts of tomato paste and sriracha as substitute); 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling chicken began to transport me straight to the bustling streets of Seoul, where mouthwatering Korean Chicken Skewers are served fresh off the grill. This recipe beautifully combines tender chicken thighs marinated in a rich, slightly spicy gochujang sauce, transforming a simple weeknight dinner into an unforgettable culinary adventure. Not only are these skewers quick to prepare, but they also serve as a delightful centerpiece for family gatherings, giving everyone a chance to customize their skewers with favorite veggies or sides. Imagine the joy as your loved ones bite into juicy, flavorful pieces, reminiscent of their favorite street food. Ready to explore the irresistibly bold flavors of Korean cuisine? Let’s fire up the grill!

Why Will You Love Korean Chicken Skewers?

Unforgettable Flavor: Dive into bold, savory notes with a rich gochujang marinade that balances spicy and sweet.
Quick Prep Time: You’ll love how simple it is to whip up these skewers in just a few minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
Customizable: Versatility is key; toss on your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra crunch and color!
Family-Friendly: These skewers are a hit with everyone, bringing a taste of Korea to the dinner table that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your guests with these easy-to-make skewers that transform backyard grilling into a festive celebration!

Korean Chicken Skewers Ingredients

For the Chicken and Marinade
• Chicken Thighs – A tender and juicy protein choice; boneless, skinless thighs work best for these skewers.
• Fresh Ginger – Adds a warm kick; if you’re in a pinch, use ground ginger as a substitute (1 tsp for every 2 tsp fresh).
• Minced Garlic – Enhances the overall umami flavor; feel free to swap with 1 tsp of ground garlic if needed.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Offers depth and saltiness; you can use regular soy sauce but adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly.
• Brown Sugar – This sweetens the marinade and balances the heat; light or dark varieties work well, or you can substitute with granulated sugar.
• Sesame Oil – Infuses a rich, nutty flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
• Rice Vinegar – Adds a hint of acidity; white wine vinegar is a suitable alternative if rice vinegar isn’t on hand.
• Gochujang – The heart of this dish, ensuring authentic flavor; if you can’t find it, mix equal parts of tomato paste and sriracha as a substitute (1:1 ratio).

For Garnish
• Chopped Green Onions – Optional for a fresh, vibrant touch and added visual appeal to your skewers.

Get ready to experience the playful flavors of these delightful Korean Chicken Skewers in your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prep Chicken
Begin by cutting boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1.5-inch cubes. This size ensures even cooking and perfect tenderness. Place the cubed chicken in a large bowl and get ready to elevate these pieces into flavorful Korean Chicken Skewers as you prepare the marinade.

Step 2: Make Marinade
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and gochujang until the mixture is smooth. This robust marinade will coat your chicken and infuse it with those delightful Korean flavors.

Step 3: Marinate Chicken
Pour half of the marinade over the cubed chicken and toss to coat the pieces thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 4 hours or, for deeper flavor, overnight. Remember to reserve the remaining marinade for basting during grilling, which adds an extra layer of flavor to your Korean Chicken Skewers.

Step 4: Prepare to Grill
Once the chicken has marinated, thread the pieces onto bamboo or metal skewers, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Preheat your grill to medium heat, which should be about 350°F to 400°F. Visualize those beautiful grill marks waiting to appear on your juicy skewers!

Step 5: Grill Chicken
Place the skewers on the grill and let them cook for 20-30 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes for even cooking. During the last few minutes, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade. The skewers are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have a beautifully charred exterior.

Step 6: Serve
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. For an optional garnish, sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Now, gather loved ones around the table to relish the delectable Korean Chicken Skewers that are bursting with bold flavor and happiness!

What to Serve with Spicy Korean Chicken Skewers?

Elevate your meal with delightful accompaniments that enhance the bold flavors of these juicy chicken skewers.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The delicate texture of jasmine rice balances the slightly spicy flavor of the skewers and absorbs the delicious marinade drippings.
Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken. The bright colors add a beautiful visual appeal as well.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini grilled alongside the chicken bring vibrant flavors and a smoky char that harmonizes perfectly.
Kimchi: Serve this traditional Korean side dish for a spicy and tangy punch that complements every bite of the skewers. It adds not just flavor, but also a cultural touch to your meal.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a soothing addition to your dinner, with its deep umami flavor enhancing the overall experience.
Cold Beer or Soju: Refresh yourself with a crisp lager or a smooth drink of soju as the perfect pairing for these skewers. The cold beverages beautifully cut through the richness of the dish.
Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can serve as a palate cleanser between bites, keeping the meal feeling bright and inviting.

How to Store and Freeze Korean Chicken Skewers

Refrigerate: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They’re delightful cold or can be easily reheated!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze grilled Korean Chicken Skewers in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on a grill or in a microwave until heated through, ensuring each piece remains juicy and flavorful.

Wrap Well: Always wrap skewers tightly with plastic wrap or foil before freezing to prevent freezer burn, preserving their delicious essence!

Make Ahead Options

These Korean Chicken Skewers are perfect for busy cooks who want to simplify meal time! You can marinate the chicken pieces up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those bold flavors to really penetrate into the meat. Simply cut the chicken thighs into 1.5-inch cubes, whisk together the marinade, and toss them to coat thoroughly in a bowl, then refrigerate. This can be done the night before for quick preparation the next day. When you’re ready to grill, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and preheat the grill. For optimal quality, keep the reserved marinade refrigerated until you need it for basting. Enjoy restaurant-quality Korean Chicken Skewers with minimal effort!

Korean Chicken Skewers Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delicious twists and make this recipe truly your own!

Chicken Breasts: Switch to chicken breasts for a leaner option while maintaining great flavor and tenderness.
Tofu Replacement: For a vegetarian delight, marinate and grill firm tofu cubes instead of chicken.
Veggie Skewers: Add bell pepper, zucchini, or mushrooms to the skewers for a pop of color and added nutrition.
Heat Level: Increase spiciness by stirring in more gochujang or adding slices of fresh jalapeño to the skewers.
Sesame Seeds Garnish: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor enhancement.
Fruit Twists: Insert pineapple or peach chunks between the chicken pieces to add a sweet touch that balances the spiciness.
Saucy Finish: Drizzle with a spicy peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce just before serving for an extra flavor boost!
Crispy Chicken: To achieve a crispy exterior, grill the skewers over high heat while continuously basting with the marinade to help caramelize the sugars.

If you’re interested in trying something similar, check out my recipe for Avocado Chicken Salad or Salsa Verde Chicken for tasty family-friendly options!

Expert Tips for Korean Chicken Skewers

• Marinade Matters: Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated in the marinade; this infuses every bite with robust flavor.

• Baste Wisely: Always set aside half of the marinade before mixing with the chicken to avoid any cross-contamination.

• Mind the Temp: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption and juicy texture.

• Skewer Spacing: Leave a little space between chicken pieces on the skewers to allow for even grilling and that perfect char.

• Enhance Smokiness: If using a grill, consider adding wood chips for a smokier flavor that’ll elevate your Korean Chicken Skewers!

Korean Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for Korean chicken skewers?
Absolutely! For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They are tender and juicy, making them ideal for grilling. Chicken breasts can also be used but might require additional marinade time to ensure they stay moist and flavorful.

How should I store leftover Korean chicken skewers?
Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They taste great cold or can be reheated by grilling them briefly to maintain the flavor and tenderness.

Can I freeze Korean chicken skewers?
Very! To freeze, place the grilled Korean chicken skewers on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag, wrapping them tightly to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the grill or in the microwave.

Why is my chicken skewers burning on the grill?
If you find your Korean chicken skewers burning, it might be due to the grill being too hot or insufficient spacing between the pieces on the skewers. Make sure to preheat the grill to medium heat (about 350°F to 400°F) and turn the skewers every 3-4 minutes. This method will help achieve that beautiful char without burning.

Are Korean chicken skewers safe for pets?
While chicken without seasoning is generally safe for dogs, the marinade used in Korean chicken skewers contains ingredients like garlic and soy sauce, which could be harmful. It’s best to keep these skewers away from pets and provide them with plain cooked chicken instead!

What can I substitute for gochujang in the marinade?
If you cannot find gochujang, you can mix equal parts of sriracha and tomato paste as a quick substitute (1:1 ratio). Another alternative is to use a blend of chili paste with a touch of honey or sugar for sweetness. This would help in capturing a bit of that spicy warmth found in the original recipe.