Light Asian Style Chicken Skewers For Quick Healthy Dinners At Home
If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner option, look no further than these Light Asian Style Chicken Skewers. Perfect for warm evenings or busy weeknights, these skewers are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The marinade is a delightful blend of Asian-inspired ingredients that will have your taste buds dancing. Serve them with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions, for garnish
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Start by preparing the chicken. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into evenly sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches in size. This ensures even cooking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes. This will be your marinade.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for up to 2 hours will deepen the flavor.
- While the chicken is marinating, soak your wooden skewers in water for about 10-15 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Once the chicken has marinated, thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- Before serving, sprinkle the skewers with chopped green onions for a fresh finish. Serve with a side of steamed rice, a salad, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Why These Chicken Skewers Are Perfect for Quick Dinners
These Light Asian Style Chicken Skewers are a fantastic choice for quick dinners because they come together effortlessly. The marinade can be prepared in advance, allowing you to simply marinate the chicken and grill it when you’re ready to eat.
Additionally, the ingredients are common pantry staples, making it easy to whip this dish up at a moment’s notice. The skewers are ideal for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days, ensuring you have a healthy option ready to go.
Variations to Try
If you’re looking to switch things up, there are numerous variations to these chicken skewers. Consider adding vegetables to the skewers, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions. These not only add color but also enhance the nutritional value of your meal.
Alternatively, for those who enjoy a bit of spice, try adding a few slices of jalapeño or using a spicy marinade. For a different flavor profile, switch out the soy sauce for tamari to make it gluten-free or use coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter taste.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken skewers are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Pair them with a refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with sesame dressing for a light meal. Alternatively, serve them over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.
If you’re hosting a gathering, these skewers make excellent appetizers. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like peanut sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a spicy chili sauce to cater to everyone’s tastes.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
For longer storage, you can freeze the skewers. Make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great for skewers as they are juicier and can add more flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What if I don’t have sesame oil?
If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute it with vegetable oil or olive oil. While it may change the flavor slightly, the skewers will still be delicious.
Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the skewers on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.
How do I know if the chicken is cooked?
The best way to ensure chicken is cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you do not have a thermometer, cut into the chicken to check that it is no longer pink inside.
Conclusion
These Light Asian Style Chicken Skewers are a fantastic addition to your dinner rotation. They are quick to prepare, healthy, and bursting with flavor. With a simple marinade and a short cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious meal that feels gourmet without the hassle. Customize them as you like and make them your own!
So the next time you find yourself in need of a quick and healthy dinner, remember this recipe. Your taste buds will thank you!
