These honey sriracha chicken skewers are my go-to for a quick, flavorful meal. The glaze hits that perfect balance of sweet and spicy, and the high-heat grilling gives you charred edges and juicy centers every time.
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I've tested this recipe multiple times to get the marinade and cooking times just right. The key is to not overcook the chicken – pull it off the grill at 165°F (74°C) for the most tender results.
Whether you're firing up the grill or using a grill pan indoors, these skewers are versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve them with rice and a side of grilled veggies for a complete meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
About the Ingredients
1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
Thighs stay juicier than breasts; if using breasts, reduce grilling time by 2 minutes.
1/4 cup (60ml) honey
Use raw honey for a more complex flavor; substitute maple syrup for a vegan option.
3 tablespoons (45ml) sriracha
Adjust to taste; use sambal oelek for a chunkier texture.
3 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh is best; use 1 teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch.
2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce
Use low-sodium to control salt; tamari for gluten-free.
1 tablespoon (15ml) rice vinegar
Adds brightness; substitute apple cider vinegar.
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Toasted sesame oil is more flavorful; use a neutral oil if you prefer.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For extra heat; omit for a milder version.
8-10 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Soaking prevents burning; metal skewers are reusable and heat evenly.
Tips & Tricks
- Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Don't overcrowd the skewers – leave a little space between chicken pieces for even cooking.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to lock in the juices.
Pro Tips
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Reserve 1/4 cup for basting and 1/4 cup for serving.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken pieces in a zip-top bag or bowl, add the marinade (not the reserved glaze), and toss to coat. Marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
3. Thread the Skewers
Thread chicken pieces onto soaked skewers, leaving a small gap between pieces. You'll get about 8-10 skewers depending on size.
4. Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). If using a grill pan, heat it on the stove over medium-high for 5 minutes.
5. Grill the Skewers
Place skewers on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side. Brush with the reserved basting glaze during the last 2 minutes of cooking. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) and has nice char marks.
6. Rest and Serve
Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve with the extra glaze on the side and a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.
Delicious Variations
Swap chicken for shrimp
reduce grilling time to 2-3 minutes per side.
Make it vegetarian
use firm tofu or halloumi cheese, and adjust cooking time to 4-5 minutes per side.
Add veggies
thread bell peppers, red onion, or zucchini between chicken pieces for a colorful kebab.
How to Store Honey Sriracha Chicken Skewers
Refrigerator
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooked skewers (without the glaze) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breast, but be careful not to overcook it. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side and check for 165°F (74°C).
Q: How long should I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate for as little as 15 minutes, but for best flavor, let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
Q: Can I bake these in the oven instead of grilling?
Yes, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake skewers on a lined baking sheet for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is cooked through.
Q: How do I prevent the skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using. Alternatively, use metal skewers.
Q: What can I serve with these skewers?
Serve with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even in tortillas for a fun twist.
Try these honey sriracha chicken skewers for your next grilling session – they're guaranteed to disappear fast. Don't forget to share your results in the comments below! Keep it real.
Honey Sriracha Chicken Skewers
Juicy honey sriracha chicken skewers with a sweet-spicy glaze, grilled to caramelized perfection in 25 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or summer BBQs.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
- 3 tablespoons (45ml) sriracha
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 8-10 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
📋 Instructions
- 1Make the Glaze — In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Reserve 1/4 cup for basting and 1/4 cup for serving.
- 2Marinate the Chicken — Place chicken pieces in a zip-top bag or bowl, add the marinade (not the reserved glaze), and toss to coat. Marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
- 3Thread the Skewers — Thread chicken pieces onto soaked skewers, leaving a small gap between pieces. You'll get about 8-10 skewers depending on size.
- 4Preheat the Grill — Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). If using a grill pan, heat it on the stove over medium-high for 5 minutes.
- 5Grill the Skewers — Place skewers on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side. Brush with the reserved basting glaze during the last 2 minutes of cooking. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) and has nice char marks.
- 6Rest and Serve — Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve with the extra glaze on the side and a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.



