Name: Savory Korean Chicken Skewers with Irresistible Gochujang Marinade
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 290 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger (or 1 tsp of ground ginger if unavailable); 3 cloves Minced Garlic (or 1 tsp of garlic powder if preferred); ½ cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce; 2 tbsp Brown Sugar (light or dark, or use granulated white sugar); 1 tbsp Sesame Oil; 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar (or white wine vinegar as a substitute); 3 tbsp Gochujang (or mix tomato paste with sriracha); 1 lb Chicken Thighs (boneless and skinless, chicken breasts can be used); 2 tbsp Chopped Green Onions (optional garnish)

As I stood at the grill, the smoky aroma of marinated chicken began to fill the air, instantly transporting me to a bustling Korean street market. These Korean Chicken Skewers, infused with bold gochujang and grilled to perfection, are not just a meal; they are a celebration of flavor and culture. Quick to prepare and undeniably satisfying, these skewers are perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and lively gatherings with friends. Imagine the delight on your loved ones’ faces as they sink their teeth into the juicy, tender chicken, coated in a deliciously sticky marinade. So, are you ready to dive into this flavorful adventure and elevate your grilling game? Let’s get cooking!

Why try these Korean chicken skewers?

Bold flavor: The unique gochujang marinade elevates these skewers from ordinary to extraordinary, delivering a delightful kick that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Quick preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have these juicy skewers ready for grilling in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
Versatile sides: Pair them effortlessly with a refreshing creamy cucumber salad or fragrant Asian-style fried rice for a complete meal.
Family friendly: These skewers are great for everyone; their robust flavor will appeal to kids and adults alike, making them a crowd favorite.
Gluten-free options: Easily tailor the recipe to fit dietary needs by using low sodium soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative!

Korean Chicken Skewers Ingredients

For the Marinade
• Fresh Ginger – Adds a fresh, zesty flavor; substitute with 1 tsp of ground ginger if unavailable.
• Minced Garlic – Enhances depth of flavor; fresh is best but 1 tsp of garlic powder can work too.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides salty umami flavor while keeping sodium content lower; perfect for your Korean chicken skewers.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the spice; light or dark brown sugar works, or use granulated white sugar as an alternate.
• Sesame Oil – Contributes a nutty flavor characteristic of Asian cuisine.
• Rice Vinegar – Offers a mild acidity; white wine vinegar is a suitable substitute if needed.
• Gochujang – The key ingredient for spiciness; seek this at Asian markets or mix tomato paste with sriracha if unavailable.

For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Use boneless and skinless thighs for moistness and best results; you can also opt for chicken breasts if preferred.

For Garnishing
• Chopped Green Onions – Optional garnish that adds freshness and a burst of color.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1½ inch cubes and placing them in a large bowl. This ensures even marination and cooking later. Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful chicken pieces—you want them nice and uniform for the best results in your Korean Chicken Skewers.

Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a separate bowl, whisk together fresh ginger, minced garlic, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and gochujang. This marinade is the heart of your Korean Chicken Skewers, adding rich flavors. Aim for a smooth consistency and a beautiful reddish hue, indicative of the gochujang’s presence.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Pour half of this fragrant marinade over the chicken cubes and gently mix to ensure every piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken, enhancing your Korean Chicken Skewers.

Step 4: Reserve Marinade for Basting
While the chicken is marinating, take the other half of the marinade and cover it in the refrigerator—this will be used for basting while grilling. It’s crucial to keep this portion separate to avoid contamination; you’ll appreciate the flavor boost later as the skewers cook to perfection.

Step 5: Preheat the Grill
About 20 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350°F). This ensures a nice sear on the chicken once it hits the grill. While the grill heats up, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 6: Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the grill, cooking them for 20-30 minutes. Turn them every 3-4 minutes until they are beautifully charred and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. During the last few minutes of cooking, baste the skewers with your reserved marinade for flavor and a lovely glaze.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once grilled to perfection, remove the Korean Chicken Skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch, and consider serving them alongside your favorite sides, like Asian-style fried rice or a creamy cucumber salad, for a complete meal.

Expert Tips for Korean Chicken Skewers

• Marinate Overnight: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight for the best flavor absorption. A shorter marination time may yield a milder taste.

• Even Cooking: Rest skewers at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling. This helps them cook evenly and prevents sticking.

• Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t crowd the chicken on the skewers. Leaving space allows for air circulation and ensures an even char for your Korean chicken skewers.

• Baste while Grilling: Use the reserved marinade for basting in the last few minutes of grilling. This adds an extra layer of flavor and a glossy finish.

• Check Temperature: Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Proper cooking guarantees juicy, safe-to-eat skewers.

Make Ahead Options

These Korean Chicken Skewers are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can marinate the chicken in the gochujang mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully. Simply cut the chicken thighs into cubes and coat them with half of the marinade, then refrigerate. The remaining marinade can be stored for basting. When you’re ready to grill, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and cook them—this method ensures your skewers are just as juicy and flavorful as if made fresh! Enjoy the convenience and bring restaurant-quality results to your table with minimal effort.

Korean Chicken Skewers Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your Korean chicken skewers, perfect for personalizing every bite.

Boneless Breasts: Swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner cut. They’ll still turn out juicy when marinated well!
Veggie Skewers: Add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or red onion onto the skewers for a colorful and nutritious twist. This not only enhances flavor but also brings a burst of color to your plate.
Sweet Heat: For a sweeter balance, include a touch of pineapple chunks on the skewers. The caramelized edges elevate the dish and create a delightful contrast with the spicy marinated chicken.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut yogurt instead of soy sauce for a creamy marinate. This will deftly mellow the spices while retaining the essence of deliciousness.
Spicy Kick: If you’re craving additional heat, toss in slices of fresh jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes with the chicken. Adjust according to your taste, making these skewers as fiery as your palate can handle!
Store-Bought Marinade: In a pinch, you can use a pre-made Asian marinade. Look for one that highlights gochujang or other bold Asian flavors for a hassle-free alternative.
Grilled Pineapple Salsa: Serve your skewers with a simple salsa made from grilled pineapple, cilantro, and lime juice. This fresh accompaniment adds a refreshing touch to the dish.

With these options, you can easily tailor your Korean chicken skewers to your taste! And while you’re here, you might want to try pairing these with Asian Chicken Cranberry salad—a fresh and vibrant side—or explore the rich flavors of Korean Pork Chops for a complete Korean-inspired feast!

What to Serve with Korean Chicken Skewers

The smoky, spicy flavors of Korean chicken skewers create a culinary experience that deserves delightful companions.

Asian-Style Fried Rice: A hearty side that blends well with the spicy skewers, adding texture and umami with each bite.
Creamy Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and cool, this salad balances the heat with its crunchy cucumber and tangy dressing, making a perfect pair.
Grilled Vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add sweetness and vibrant colors, enhancing the plate’s visual appeal.
Spicy Kimchi: For the adventurous, this fermented dish adds an authentic touch to your meal, bringing a punch of flavor and probiotics.
Sesame Noodles: A flavorful noodle dish that pairs beautifully with the skewers, offering a satisfying, nutty contrast to the spice.
Soju or Beer: Enjoy these skewers with a chilled glass of traditional Korean soju or a light beer, both of which elevate the dining experience.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, the sweet and creamy texture of this classic Thai treat is a delightful way to end a spicy meal on a refreshing note.

How to Store and Freeze Korean Chicken Skewers

Fridge: Store cooked Korean chicken skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for about 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw skewers in the fridge overnight, then warm them up in a skillet or microwave until heated through. You can also grill them briefly to restore that lovely char.

Leftover Marinade: If you have extra marinade left, it can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for future use with more Korean chicken skewers!

Korean Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for the skewers?
I recommend using boneless and skinless chicken thighs for the juiciest and most flavorful results. If you prefer, you can also use chicken breasts, but thighs are less prone to drying out during grilling.

How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
The ideal internal temperature for the chicken is 165°F. I suggest using a meat thermometer for accuracy to ensure your Korean Chicken Skewers are perfectly cooked and safe to eat. They should also have a nice char on the outside while remaining juicy inside.

How should I store the leftover skewers?
Store your cooked Korean Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing. This way, they maintain their freshness and flavor!

Can I freeze the chicken skewers?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet until completely frozen. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat.

Is gochujang spicy?
Yes, gochujang does have a significant kick! However, you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Start with a smaller amount and gradually add more until you find the right heat balance for your Korean Chicken Skewers. If gochujang isn’t available, a mix of tomato paste and sriracha can also work in a pinch.

How can I check for fresh ginger?
When selecting fresh ginger, look for firm pieces with smooth skin and a fresh, spicy aroma. Avoid any ginger that feels soft or wrinkled, as this indicates it may have lost its flavor. Fresh ginger will enhance the marinade’s flavor in your Korean Chicken Skewers.