These juicy, flavor-packed skewers are made with tender chunks of chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. The result is a perfectly balanced combination of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors that caramelize beautifully when grilled or roasted. Ideal for busy weeknights, backyard barbecues, or casual gatherings, this recipe offers a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy bold Asian-inspired flavors with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with flavor from a simple, bold marinade.

• Great for grilling or roasting, making it versatile year-round.

• Quick and easy prep with minimal ingredients.

• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing.

• Easily customizable to suit different spice preferences or dietary needs.

• Makes a complete meal when paired with rice, noodles, or veggies.

• Works well as a main dish, appetizer, or party snack.

• Excellent for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.

• Leftovers taste just as good the next day.

• Gluten-free adaptable with simple ingredient swaps.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes

• ½ cup sweet chili sauce

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use low-sodium or tamari for gluten-free)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced or grated

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Skewers (wooden or metal)

• Optional: extra sweet chili sauce for serving

Directions

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, sesame oil, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Stir well until fully blended.

2. Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss until all pieces are evenly coated.

3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate. For more intense flavor, marinate for 2–4 hours or overnight.

4. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning.

5. Preheat your grill to high heat (or preheat your oven to 450°F/232°C).

6. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece for even cooking.

7. To grill: Place the skewers directly on the grill grates and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.

8. To bake: Arrange the skewers on a lined baking sheet and roast in the oven for 10–15 minutes, turning once halfway through.

9. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

10. Remove from heat and let rest briefly. Serve hot with extra sweet chili sauce on the side.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Marinate time: 1–4 hours

• Cook time: 10–15 minutes

• Total time: About 1 hour 20 minutes (with minimum marinating)

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add 1–2 teaspoons of Sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade.

• Citrusy Twist: Add a tablespoon of lime juice or zest for brightness.

• Different Protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.

• Vegetable Skewers: Add bell peppers, red onion, or pineapple chunks between chicken pieces.

• Peanut Finish: Drizzle with peanut sauce instead of sweet chili for a nutty variation.

• No Grill?: Use a stovetop grill pan or broil in the oven for a similar charred effect.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze cooked skewers in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, covered, or briefly grill/broil to revive texture.

 

FAQs

What cut of chicken is best for skewers?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast works well, but chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Marinating helps lock in moisture. Don’t overcook the chicken—remove it as soon as it reaches 165°F.

Can I cook these skewers in the oven instead of a grill?

Yes. Bake at 450°F for 10–15 minutes, turning once halfway through for even browning.

Do I need to soak wooden skewers?

Yes, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling or baking.

Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

You can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance and thread the skewers just before cooking.

Is sweet chili sauce very spicy?

Most store-bought sweet chili sauces are mild with a subtle kick. You can adjust the heat by choosing a spicier version or adding extra chili flakes.

What should I serve with these skewers?

Great options include steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, stir-fried vegetables, Asian slaw, or rice noodles.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce, and make sure your sweet chili sauce is also gluten-free.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely. Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and grill or bake the skewers in batches.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F. The meat should also appear opaque and have no pink center.

Conclusion

Sweet Chili Chicken Skewers offer a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors in every juicy bite. Whether you grill them outdoors or bake them inside, these skewers come together quickly with minimal prep and maximum taste. With flexible options for ingredients, serving styles, and cooking methods, this recipe is an easy go-to for weeknight dinners, summer cookouts, or make-ahead lunches. Try it once, and you’ll want to keep it in regular rotation.