Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers

If you’re craving a meal that packs a flavorful punch, Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers are the perfect choice!

Marinated in a Korean barbecue sauce and grilled to perfection, these skewers are a mouthwatering combination of tender chicken and vibrant red peppers, topped with crunchy sesame seeds and fresh scallions. 

 

 

These homemade Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers are perfectly sticky, loaded with flavor, and will have everyone asking for the recipe.

They are authentic too. The Korean BBQ chicken recipe marinade combines soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and chili-garlic sauce for an authentic taste that’s both sweet and spicy.

With a simple marinade and straightforward grilling steps, this recipe is easy enough for even novice cooks.

Made with fresh vegetables and lean chicken breast, these Korean barbecue chicken skewers are a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Feel free to add other vegetables to take it up a notch.

If you love delicious Korean chicken skewers, you have to try this recipe. Ideal for summer grilling, a party appetizer, or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

 

 

What Is Korean Barbecue?

Korean barbecue (often referred to as “K-BBQ”) is a style of cooking that involves grilling meat, typically marinated with Korean flavors, at the table or on a grill.

The flavor profile is distinctive, characterized by a blend of savory, sweet, and spicy ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and gochujang (Korean chili paste).

Do You Marinate Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers?

Yes, marinating the chicken is crucial for developing the deep, flavorful taste of this Korean BBQ Chicken Kabobs Recipe.

The marinade tenderizes the meat and infuses it with a blend of savory, sweet, and spicy notes.

 

 

What Ingredients Are in Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers?

• Chicken Breasts: Provides a lean, protein-rich base for the skewers, giving a juicy and tender bite when cooked.
• Red Pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color to complement the korean barbecue chicken recipe.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkled on top for a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch.
• Scallions (Green Onions): Green parts only, for a fresh, mild onion flavor.
• Red Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the marinade.
• Fresh Ginger: Provides a warm, spicy kick that enhances the overall flavor.
• Garlic: Contributes a savory depth with its robust aroma.
• Soy Sauce: essential for this chicken recipe, this adds saltiness and umami.
• Brown Sugar: Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with a touch of sweetness.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty flavor that is characteristic of Korean cuisine.
• Rice Wine Vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the sweetness and saltiness.
• Chili-Garlic Sauce: Provides a spicy kick and a bit of heat to the marinade.
• Cornstarch: Used to thicken the BBQ sauce to a desirable consistency.
• Cold Water: Mixed with cornstarch to create a slurry that thickens the sauce.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, marinate this recipe chicken overnight. This allows the meat to fully absorb the flavors of the marinade.

 

 

How to Make Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers:

1. In a bowl or blender prepare marinade. Mix red onion, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, and chili-garlic sauce until combined.
2. Place chicken chunks in a ziplock bag or bowl, pour marinade over, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
3. Heat the reserved marinade in a pot, bring to a simmer, and thicken with a cornstarch slurry.
4. Cut red pepper into chunks.
5. Alternate chicken and red pepper chunks on skewers.
6. Grill skewers on a grill for 6-8 minutes per side, basting with BBQ sauce and ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
7. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped scallions before serving.

Pro Tip: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

What Kind of Chicken for BBQ Chicken Skewers?

For the best results in this Korean Barbecue Chicken Skewers, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts.

They’re lean and cook quickly, making them ideal for skewers.

You can also use skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful option.

 

 

Are Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers Healthy?

Yes, Korean Barbecue Chicken Skewers are healthy, especially when using lean chicken breasts and fresh vegetables.

The marinade contains a balanced mix of flavors without excessive fats or sugars.

How to Store Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers:

Store any leftover Barbecue Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

They should be kept cool to maintain freshness.

 

 

Can You Make Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and marinate it up to 24 hours in advance.

Assemble the skewers and grill them just before serving for the best taste and texture.

Can You Freeze Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated Korean Barbecue chicken skewers before grilling. Place the marinated chicken chunks in a freezer-safe bag and freeze.

Thicken the reserved marinade to make the barbecue sauce and let it cool before placing in a separate freezer safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.

 

 

Are Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers Gluten Free?

This Korean Chicken Skewers recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

Ensure all other ingredients, especially anything prepackaged, are also gluten-free.

What to Serve with Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers:

Serve these Korean Chicken Skewers with steamed rice, a fresh cucumber salad, or a side of kimchi.

They also pair well with roasted or grilled vegetables and a dipping sauce like extra BBQ sauce or a spicy Sriracha mayo.

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If you are looking for a great recipe for one of the most popular Korean street foods, you must try these Korean BBQ Chicken Skewers.

Easy, delicious, and loaded with flavor, they are my favorite kind of chicken kebab.

 

Originally Posted: May 3, 2018

Photos & Text Updated: June 7, 2025

 

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