Easy Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers That Melt in Your Mouth

Name: Easy Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 1/2 cup Honey (the star ingredient); 1/4 cup Soy sauce (balances the honey's sweetness); 3 cloves Garlic (minced for flavor); 2 tablespoons Olive oil (prevents sticking); 2 tablespoons Lemon juice (adds tang); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper; 1/4 cup Fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped); 2 pieces Lime wedges (optional)

Bianca

Founder of Red Recipe

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There’s something irresistible about the sweet, sticky glaze of honey caramelizing on tender chicken skewers sizzling over the grill. One evening, craving a flavorful yet simple dinner, I tossed together these Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers—and instantly fell in love with how effortlessly the honey’s natural sweetness kissed each bite. Whether you’re looking to impress guests with minimal fuss or just want a fresh alternative to your usual weeknight meals, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of juicy, savory, and lightly sweet. Best of all, it’s incredibly versatile: swap in your favorite veggies or spice mix, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that never feels repetitive. Let me show you how easy it is to bring a little golden magic to your kitchen table tonight.

Why choose Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers?

Simplicity shines in this recipe—minimal ingredients, maximum flavor. Sweet and savory harmony makes every bite irresistibly balanced. Quick prep and cook time means dinner on the table fast. Versatility lets you customize with herbs, spices, or veggies to suit your mood. Plus, these skewers deliver juicy tenderness that melts in your mouth every time.

Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers Ingredients

For the Chicken and Marinade

Chicken breast or thighs – choose boneless, skinless pieces for tender, juicy skewers that soak up the glaze.
Honey – the star ingredient that adds natural sweetness and helps create that beautiful caramelized finish on your skewers.
Soy sauce – brings a savory depth and balances the honey’s sweetness perfectly.
Garlic cloves – minced for a punch of aromatic flavor that elevates every bite.
Olive oil – helps keep the chicken moist and prevents sticking on the grill.
Lemon juice – adds a bright, tangy contrast to the sweet glaze.
Salt and black pepper – essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors without overpowering.

For Serving and Garnish

Fresh parsley or cilantro – chopped for a fresh, vibrant touch that brightens the dish.
Lime wedges – optional but perfect for squeezing over just before eating for an extra zing.

These Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers come together with simple pantry staples that transform an ordinary meal into something special—ready to delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones!

How to Make Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers

For the Marinade:

Combine Marinade: Whisk all marinade ingredients in a bowl until smooth and glossy, about 2 minutes, ensuring the honey fully integrates with the soy sauce for a sticky, flavorful glaze.
Marinate Chicken: Toss chicken pieces in the prepared glaze, coating evenly. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) to let flavors seep deep into each bite.

Grill the Skewers:

Prep Skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning on the grill, ensuring neat presentation and easier handling once the chicken is threaded.
Thread Chicken: Thread marinated chicken onto soaked skewers, leaving about 1/4-inch space between each piece for even heat circulation and perfect glaze coverage as they cook to juicy perfection.
Preheat Grill: Heat grill to medium-high (around 375°F), brushing grates with oil to prevent sticking, and close lid for 5 minutes to reach even cooking temperature.
Grill Chicken: Place skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, basting occasionally with reserved glaze until edges are caramelized and chicken reads 165°F internally.

Optional: Garnish with lime wedges for extra zest.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers?

Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that enhance the sweet and savory notes of these skewers.

Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp mix of greens and veggies adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the chicken. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to tie flavors together.
Coconut Rice: The nutty sweetness of coconut rice provides a tropical vibe while perfectly absorbing the sticky glaze from the skewers. This creamy side is sure to complement every bite.
Grilled Veggies: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus carry a smoky flavor that enhances the sweetness of the chicken. Their vibrant colors make the plate visually appealing, tempting guests to dig in.
Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery slice topped with minced garlic pairs beautifully, offering a satisfying crunch and a savory counterpoint to the sweet glaze. It’s an irresistible addition to your table.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy corn is a classic side that delivers a burst of flavor and a delightful texture. Serve it slathered in butter for a true summer feast experience.
Mango Salsa: This bright, zesty salsa adds a fruity twist that contrasts perfectly with the honey’s sweetness, bringing out the flavors of the dish in a refreshing way.
Chilled Sparkling Water: A glass of sparkling water with lime enhances the meal without overshadowing the flavors. It keeps things light and refreshing, perfect for an outdoor gathering.

Embrace these pairings for a sensational dining experience!

How to Store and Freeze Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers

Fridge: Store leftover Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To avoid drying out, add a little extra glaze before sealing.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual skewers in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll maintain quality for up to 3 months; just make sure to remove excess air.

Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat skewers in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated thoroughly. Baste with leftover glaze to keep them juicy and flavorful.

Room Temperature: If serving at a picnic or gathering, keep skewers out for no longer than 2 hours to ensure food safety, especially during warm weather.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers are perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all marinade ingredients, coat the chicken, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. If you want to save even more time, you can thread the marinated chicken onto soaked skewers and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days; just be sure to cover them tightly to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. When it’s time to serve, simply preheat your grill and cook the skewers as directed. With these tips, you’ll enjoy delicious, hassle-free meals that taste just as amazing with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers

Marinate Thoroughly: Let the chicken soak in the honey glaze for at least 30 minutes to maximize flavor and tenderness, but avoid over-marinating to prevent mushiness.
Prevent Skewer Burning: Always soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before grilling to keep them from catching fire and to ensure safe, beautiful presentation.
Even Cooking Space: Leave small gaps between chicken pieces on the skewer to allow heat circulation, ensuring each skewer cooks evenly and the glaze caramelizes properly.
Watch the Heat: Grill over medium-high heat to get caramelized edges without burning the honey glaze, flipping carefully to maintain juiciness and avoid flare-ups.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken that’s safe and juicy, preventing both undercooking and drying out.

Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor these skewers to your taste—let your culinary imagination run wild!

Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or red onion to the skewers for extra color and crunch.
Mix in your favorite vegetables; they’ll soak up the glaze nicely and add delightful texture.
Spicy Kick: Include slices of jalapeño or a dash of red pepper flakes in the marinade for a spicy twist.
The heat balances the sweetness beautifully, creating a mouthwatering contrast that’s sure to please spice lovers.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme mixed into the marinade for aromatic flair.
These herbs elevate the flavor profile, adding layers of freshness that complement the honey glaze.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate orange or lime zest into the marinade for a zesty lift and bright flavor.
This citrus addition brightens the skewers, enhancing the sweetness of the honey with a refreshing twist.
Sweet & Savory: Substitute maple syrup for honey for a deeper, richer sweetness with a hint of smokiness.
The combination of flavors is heavenly, making your skewers incredibly decadent yet still simple.
Grain-Free: Use cauliflower rice or quinoa as a side instead of traditional grains for a light, hearty meal.
This swap keeps the dish feeling fresh and nutritious, perfect for those watching their carbs.
Marinade Twist: Switch out soy sauce for coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative that’s just as tasty.
This alternative brings a subtle sweetness and rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the honey.
Skewer Mix: Alternate chicken with pineapple chunks for a tropical twist that’s both sweet and savory.
This delicious combination keeps every bite exciting while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs

How do I know if the chicken is fresh and ready for skewers?
Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs that are pale pink with no off smell. Avoid any pieces with dark spots or slimy texture, as these signs indicate the chicken is past its prime.

What’s the best way to store leftover Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them moist, drizzle a little extra honey glaze before sealing. This helps maintain that juicy, flavorful bite you love.

Can I freeze Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap, then place them all in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, basting with extra glaze to revive that delicious caramelized finish.

What if the glaze burns on the grill—how can I prevent that?
Burning usually happens if the grill is too hot or if too much glaze is brushed on too often. Grill over medium-high heat (around 375°F), flipping carefully and basting just once or twice during cooking. Leaving small gaps between chicken pieces also helps heat circulate evenly and prevents flare-ups.

Are Honey Glazed Chicken Skewers safe for kids or people with allergies?
These skewers are kid-friendly and free from common allergens like nuts or dairy, but they do contain soy sauce, which has gluten unless you choose a gluten-free version. Substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option. Also, honey isn’t recommended for children under one year due to infant botulism risk.