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Flavorful Firecracker Chicken Skewers

firecracker chicken skewers - featured image

These chicken skewers feature a sweet heat glaze combining honey, chili, and smoky spices, delivering juicy, flavorful bites perfect for quick dinners or summer cookouts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha or favorite chili sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional garnishes: chopped fresh cilantro or green onions, sesame seeds
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs. Cut into even 1-inch cubes.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Set aside about 2 tablespoons of glaze for basting.
  3. Toss chicken cubes in the remaining glaze until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes to 1 hour.
  4. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. Thread chicken pieces evenly onto skewers, leaving about 1/2 inch space between pieces.
  5. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
  6. Grill skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, turning carefully. Brush with reserved glaze every 2 minutes to build a sticky, caramelized coating.
  7. Check that internal temperature reaches 165°F or juices run clear.
  8. Remove from grill and let rest a few minutes. Sprinkle with optional cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not marinate chicken longer than 1 hour to avoid mushy texture. Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Use medium-high heat to avoid burning the glaze. Move skewers to cooler parts of the grill if glaze starts to burn. For indoor cooking, use a grill pan and lightly oil it to prevent sticking.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken skewers, firecracker chicken, sweet heat glaze, grilled chicken, easy chicken recipe, summer cookout, backyard barbecue