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To fully appreciate Sweet Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Skewers, it's essential to understand the origins and significance of teriyaki in Japanese cuisine. The term "teriyaki" refers to a cooking method that involves grilling or broiling food while basting it with a glaze made primarily from soy sauce, sake, and sugar. This technique has roots in traditional Japanese cooking and has evolved over the years to become a beloved flavor profile worldwide.

Sweet Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Discover the joy of flavorful grilling with Sweet Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Skewers! Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner, this easy recipe features tender chicken marinated in a sticky, sweet, and savory teriyaki sauce. Customize with your choice of colorful vegetables or fruits to elevate every bite. Learn about the origins of teriyaki, marinating techniques, and ideal grilling tips to create a vibrant dish that not only tastes great but also looks stunning on your table. Enjoy a delightful meal that brings everyone together!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup honey

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 tablespoons mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon cornstarch dissolved in 1 tablespoon water

For Serving:

Cooking oil (for grilling)

Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Pineapple chunks (for skewering and grilling, optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Marinade:

    In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, mirin, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and the cornstarch-water mixture. Whisk until fully combined.

      Marinate the Chicken:

        Add the cubed chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a zip-top bag, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

          Soak Skewers:

            If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning while grilling. If you're using metal skewers, this step is not necessary.

              Preheat the Grill:

                Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly grease the grill grates with cooking oil to prevent sticking.

                  Assemble the Skewers:

                    Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. If desired, alternate with pineapple chunks for added sweetness and contrast.

                      Grill the Skewers:

                        Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, Basting with leftover marinade while turning, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

                          Finish and Serve:

                            Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice or on a bed of fresh salad.

                              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour 20 minutes | 4 servings