Bamboo Stick Chicken (2) Recipe
(Choice of: Teriyaki, Sweet Chili, Salt & Pepper or Plain)
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Marinated Chicken
Skewers & Coating
Teriyaki Sauce (choose if Teriyaki)
Sweet Chili Sauce (choose if Sweet Chili)
Salt & Pepper Finish (choose if Salt & Pepper)
Plain Option
Method
Marinated Chicken
Prepare and cut chicken
Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs and breast. Cut the chicken into 1–1.25 inch cubes so they will thread easily on skewers and cook evenly (about 24–28 pieces total).
Marinate
In a bowl combine minced garlic, grated ginger, 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Add the cut chicken and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, up to 2 hours. For best texture, no longer than 4 hours for cut pieces.
Skewers & Coating
If using wooden bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning. When ready to assemble, pat the marinated chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess marinade. Toss the chicken lightly with 2 tablespoons cornstarch until pieces are evenly coated — this creates a slight crust and helps sauces adhere.
Cooking
Place skewers on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for 2.5–3 minutes per side, turning once or twice so all sides get color. Total cook time should be 7–9 minutes depending on piece size. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If using a thicker piece, move to indirect heat and close the grill lid for 1–2 minutes to finish.
Teriyaki Sauce (if chosen)
In a small saucepan combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons mirin (or dry sherry), 2 tablespoons brown sugar and 1 teaspoon rice vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve sugar.
Whisk 1 tablespoon cornstarch slurry into the sauce and simmer 1–2 minutes more until it thickens to a glossy glaze. Remove from heat. When skewers are nearly done (last 1–2 minutes), brush several coats of teriyaki glaze onto the chicken, turning and glazing so it builds a sticky coating. Sprinkle sesame seeds if desired and serve immediately.
Sweet Chili Sauce (if chosen)
If using store-bought sweet chili sauce, stir in 1 teaspoon lime juice to brighten the flavor. If making a quick homemade version, combine 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce, 1 teaspoon lime juice and simmer for 1 minute. In the last 30–60 seconds of cooking, brush a light layer of sweet chili onto the skewers and reserve additional sauce for serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Salt & Pepper Finish (if chosen)
After the skewers are cooked and resting for 1 minute, sprinkle evenly with coarse sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon white or black pepper (and a pinch of five-spice if using). Toss or shake gently so seasoning adheres. Serve immediately while hot.
Plain Option & Service
For Plain option simply cook the skewers as directed without adding a finishing sauce. Serve with lemon wedges and optional chopped parsley or scallion for freshness. Offer small bowls of dipping sauces (teriyaki or sweet chili) on the side if desired.
Plate two skewers per order (or as desired). Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for teriyaki, cilantro for sweet chili, or lemon wedge for plain. Serve hot as an appetizer.