Sticky Sweet & Spicy Chicken Skewers

Description

These chicken skewers are marinated until flavorful, grilled (or oven-roasted) until juicy, then brushed with a thick, glossy sweet-and-spicy glaze. Sticky, smoky, and packed with bold flavors, they’re perfect for BBQs, parties, or weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients (Serves 3–4 | 8–10 skewers)

For the Chicken

• 800 g (1.7 lb) boneless chicken thighs (or breast), cut into chunks

• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

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For the Marinade

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

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For the Sticky Glaze

• 3 tablespoons honey

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon ketchup

• 1 tablespoon gochujang or chili sauce

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (slurry)

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For Garnish

• Chopped fresh parsley or chives

• Sesame seeds (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients.

2. Add chicken pieces and toss until evenly coated.

3. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 8 hours for best flavor).

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Step 2: Skewer the Chicken

1. Thread marinated chicken pieces tightly onto soaked skewers.

2. Leave a little space between pieces for even cooking.

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Step 3: Make the Sticky Glaze

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, gochujang, and sesame oil.

2. Bring to a gentle simmer.

3. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook 1–2 minutes until thick and glossy.

4. Remove from heat and set aside.

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Step 4: Cook the Skewers

Grill Method (Best Flavor)

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

2. Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes.

3. Brush generously with glaze during the last 3–4 minutes.

Oven Method

1. Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F.

2. Place skewers on a lined baking tray.

3. Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping once.

4. Brush with glaze and broil for 2–3 minutes until sticky and caramelized.

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Step 5: Finish & Serve

1. Remove skewers from heat and rest for 2 minutes.

2. Sprinkle with chopped herbs and sesame seeds.

3. Serve hot.

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Flavor Profile

Sweet, savory, smoky, and slightly spicy with juicy chicken and a sticky caramelized glaze.

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Chef Tips

• Chicken thighs stay juicier than breast meat.

• Don’t glaze too early—sugar burns fast.

• Add a squeeze of lime or lemon before serving for balance.