These Easy Filipino Barbecue Chicken Skewers are packed with flavor and super fun to eat! Just marinate tender chicken in a sweet, tangy mixture, then grill them to perfection on skewers.
They’re great for family cookouts or a quick dinner. Just grab a few fresh veggies to go with them, and you’ll have a tasty meal everyone will love. Plus, the smell while they cook? Pure bliss! 😋
I love how easy these skewers are to whip up during the week. They come out juicy and delicious every time, making them a favorite in my house. Give them a try—you won’t regret it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor. If you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts can work too, but they may dry out if overcooked.
Banana Ketchup: This is a must for authentic Filipino flavor. If you can’t find it, regular ketchup with a bit of honey or brown sugar can mimic the sweetness. Don’t skip on this step as it sets the dish apart!
Calamansi Juice: If calamansi is hard to find, lime or lemon juice is a great substitute. It still gives the right tang and brightness to the marinade.
Vegetable Oil: While vegetable oil is standard for grilling, you can also use peanut oil for a slightly nuttier flavor. Olive oil can work too, but it has a lower smoke point.
How Do I Get the Perfect Grilled Chicken Skewers?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky, but here are some tips to ensure they come out perfectly every time:
- Marinating: Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight really helps the flavors soak in.
- Soaking Skewers: Soaking bamboo skewers prevents them from burning on the grill, so don’t skip this!
- Proper Heat: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Too hot and your chicken may burn on the outside while still raw inside.
- Resting Time: After grilling, let the skewers rest for a few minutes. This helps juices redistribute, keeping them juicy and tender.
Follow these tips, and you’ll get juicy, flavorful skewers that everyone will enjoy!
Easy Filipino Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup banana ketchup (or substitute with regular ketchup)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons calamansi juice (or substitute with lime or lemon juice)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 2 hours to marinate. Grill the skewers for about 15-20 minutes, so you’re looking at a total of around 2 hours and 30 minutes to enjoy these tasty treats! A bit of patience goes a long way for maximum flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, banana ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, calamansi juice, vegetable oil, and ground black pepper. Stir well until the sugar is mostly dissolved, creating a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. If you can, let it sit overnight for extra flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the chicken will cook evenly without burning.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, packing them closely but not too tight to allow for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the chicken skewers on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, basting frequently with the remaining marinade. This keeps the chicken moist and adds extra flavors.
6. Finish Cooking:
Continue grilling until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges, usually about 15-20 minutes total. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Serve your Filipino barbecue chicken skewers with steamed rice and maybe some delicious dipping sauce or sides like grilled vegetables!
Enjoy this sweet, tangy, and smoky Filipino classic that’s perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner!
FAQ for Easy Filipino Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! However, be aware that breasts are leaner and may dry out more easily, so avoid overcooking them. Keep an eye on the grill and consider reducing the cooking time slightly.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight is actually recommended. It allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Just make sure to keep it refrigerated!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on a stovetop pan over low heat to avoid drying them out.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes! If grilling isn’t an option, you can bake the skewers in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked.
