Korean Chicken Skewers

There’s nothing quite like the sizzling sound of marinated chicken skewers hitting the grill on a warm summer evening. These Korean Chicken Skewers are not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to make, taking just 4 hours to marinate and about 30 minutes to cook. The combination of tender chicken thighs and a tangy, spicy marinade works perfectly to create a dish that’s both satisfying and exciting.

Perfect for family gatherings, weekend barbecues, or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe caters to anyone craving a taste of Korean cuisine. You can easily prep the chicken ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop—ideal for busy weekdays or spontaneous get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The marinated chicken stays juicy and tender on the grill.
• Gochujang adds a delightful spicy kick.
• Quick and straightforward preparation makes this a stress-free meal.
• Perfect for customizing with your favorite vegetables on the skewers.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious skewers.

For the Chicken

• 1 1/2 lbs. chicken thighs, boneless, skinless, cut into 1 1/2" cubes

For the Marinade

• 2 tsp fresh ginger, finely grated
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 3 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp gochujang

For Garnishing

• Chopped green onions (optional)

Use low sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken thighs can be replaced with chicken breast.
• Gochujang can be substituted with sriracha for less heat.
• Honey can replace brown sugar for a different sweetness.
• Rice vinegar can be swapped for apple cider vinegar.

How to Make It

Start by preparing the chicken and marinade.

Cut the Chicken

Cut chicken thighs into 1 1/2" cubes and toss in a bowl.

Whisk the Marinade

In another small bowl, whisk together ginger, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and gochujang to make the marinade.

Marinate the Chicken

Pour half of the marinade over the chicken cubes and mix to coat fully. Cover and place in the fridge to marinate for at least 4 hours or up to overnight.

Store Remaining Marinade

Cover the remaining marinade and place in the fridge for basting the chicken later.

Preheat the Grill

When the chicken is done marinating, thread the chicken cubes onto skewers and heat the grill to medium.

Grill the Skewers

Once the grill is hot, place the skewers on the lightly oiled grill. Turn the skewers every 3-4 minutes and cook until the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees. This should take about 20-30 minutes.

Baste with Marinade

During the last few turns of grilling, baste the skewers with the remaining marinade for added flavor.

Serve the Skewers

Remove skewers from grill and serve with chopped green onions (if using) along with your favorite side dishes!

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, marinated chicken does not freeze well.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat on the grill.

Tips for Best Results

• Allow the chicken to marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients for vibrant taste and aroma.
• Serve skewers immediately after grilling for optimum juiciness.
• Soak wooden skewers in water before grilling to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with steamed rice and a side of kimchi.
• Serve alongside a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Enjoy with a chilled beverage for a perfect summer meal.