Chinese Chicken Skewer Recipes: New Ideas for Your Next BBQ Gathering

If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for any occasion, then you can't go wrong with Chinese chicken skewers. These skewers are a great way to enjoy the bold and complex flavours of Asian cuisine, and they're sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

When it comes to making Chinese chicken skewers, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it's important to choose the right ingredients. Look for high-quality chicken that's free from any added hormones or antibiotics, and be sure to use fresh herbs and spices to create a rich and flavorful marinade.

Once you have your ingredients assembled, preparing the marinade is the next step. You can use a variety of different ingredients to create a marinade that's tailored to your tastes, but some common options include soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and honey. You can also add seafood to the recipe to give it a unique twist. Shrimp, scallops, and squid are all great options that pair well with the bold flavours of the marinade.

Key Takeaways

• Chinese chicken skewers are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that's perfect for any occasion.
• Choosing high-quality ingredients and preparing a flavorful marinade are key to making delicious Chinese chicken skewers.
• You can add seafood to the recipe to give it a unique twist and create a dish that's truly your own.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When it comes to making Chinese chicken skewers, choosing the right ingredients is crucial for getting the best taste and texture. In this section, we will discuss the key factors to consider when selecting chicken, vegetables, and skewers.

Selecting Chicken

For the best results, we recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs. These cuts of chicken are easy to work with and have a tender texture that pairs well with the marinade and vegetables.

When selecting chicken, make sure it is fresh and of good quality. Check the sell-by date on the package and look for any signs of discolouration or an unpleasant smell. If possible, buy organic chicken that has been raised without antibiotics or hormones.

Freshness of Vegetables

Fresh vegetables are essential for making delicious Chinese chicken skewers. We recommend using a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.

When selecting vegetables, make sure they are fresh and firm. Avoid using vegetables that are wilted or have soft spots. If possible, buy organic vegetables that have been grown without pesticides or chemicals.

Types of Skewers

There are two main types of skewers that you can use for making Chinese chicken skewers: wooden and bamboo skewers. Both types are readily available at most grocery stores and are affordable.

Wooden skewers are made from natural wood and are a good choice if you want to avoid using plastic. Bamboo skewers are eco-friendly and are a good choice if you want to reduce your environmental impact.

If you plan to use seafood in your recipe, we suggest using shrimp or scallops. These seafood options have a mild flavour that pairs well with the marinade and vegetables. Make sure the seafood is fresh and of good quality. Check the sell-by date on the package and look for any signs of discolouration or an unpleasant smell.

Preparing the Marinade

Marinade Ingredients

To make a delicious Chinese chicken skewer, you need to prepare a flavourful marinade. The ingredients you will need are soy sauce, sesame oil, oyster sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. The soy sauce will add saltiness to the marinade, while the sesame oil will give it a nutty flavour. The oyster sauce will add a savoury umami taste, and the honey will provide sweetness. The garlic and ginger will add a delicious aroma and flavour to the marinade.

If you want to add seafood to your skewers, you can use prawns, scallops, or squid. For prawns, you can use the same marinade as the chicken, but reduce the marinating time to 15 minutes. For scallops, you can use a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. For squid, you can use a marinade of soy sauce, sake, mirin, and ginger.

Marinating Time

After you have prepared the marinade, you need to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavours to penetrate the meat. You can also marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator for even more flavour. When marinating the chicken, make sure to coat it evenly with the marinade and place it in a covered container or a resealable plastic bag.

Once the chicken is marinated, you can thread it onto skewers and grill or bake it until it is cooked through. The marinade will infuse the chicken with flavour, making it juicy and delicious.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling the Skewers

Grilling the chicken skewers is a popular cooking method that imparts a smoky flavour and charred texture to the meat. Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat or your grill pan on the stovetop to high heat. Brush the grill grates or grill pan with oil to prevent sticking.

Thread the chicken onto the skewers and place them on the grill or grill pan. Cook for 3-5 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 75°C.

If you're looking for a seafood alternative, try using shrimp or scallops instead of chicken. They cook quickly on the grill and pair well with Asian-inspired marinades.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you don't have access to a grill or grill pan, there are alternative cooking methods that you can use to cook your chicken skewers.

One option is to cook them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 200°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminium foil. Arrange the skewers on the baking sheet, leaving space between them for even heat circulation. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

Another option is to use an air fryer. Thread the chicken onto the skewers and place them in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature to 200°C and cook for 7 minutes. Flip the skewers, brush with more marinade, and continue cooking for another 7-8 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

If you're feeling adventurous, try using a wok to stir-fry your chicken skewers. Heat some oil in the wok and add the skewers. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.

Seafood lovers can use shrimp or scallops in place of chicken in any of these alternative cooking methods. They cook quickly and are a delicious addition to any Chinese-inspired dish.

Serving Suggestions

Chinese chicken skewers are a versatile and delicious dish that can be served in many different ways. Here are some serving suggestions to help you make the most of your skewers.

Accompaniments

One of the best ways to serve Chinese chicken skewers is over a bed of steamed rice. This makes for a filling and satisfying meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. You can also serve the skewers with fried rice for a more indulgent option.

To add some extra nutrition to your meal, consider pairing your skewers with a side of steamed veggies. Tenderstem broccoli, bell peppers and snap peas are all great options that will complement the flavours of the chicken. You can also make a refreshing Asian slaw with cabbage, carrots and a light sesame dressing.

If you're entertaining, Chinese chicken skewers make a great appetizer. Serve them with a dipping sauce, such as sweet chilli or hoisin, and watch them disappear!

Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when it comes to serving Chinese chicken skewers. Here are some tips to help you make your meal look as good as it tastes.

Firstly, consider the time of year. In the summer, you can serve your skewers on a platter with some fresh herbs and sliced fruit for a colourful and refreshing dish. In the winter, you can serve them on a bed of wilted greens for a more hearty presentation.

You can also experiment with different types of skewers. Bamboo skewers are traditional, but you can also use metal skewers for a more modern look. If you want to get really creative, you can even use lemongrass or rosemary sprigs as skewers.

Finally, consider adding some seafood to your skewers. Shrimp or scallops pair particularly well with Chinese flavours, and can be marinated and grilled alongside the chicken. This will add some variety to your meal and make it even more delicious!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to Chinese chicken skewers, it is important to pay attention to the nutritional information. This information can help you make informed decisions about what you eat and how much of it you consume.

One of the most important things to consider is the calorie content of the skewers. Depending on the recipe and the ingredients used, the calorie content can vary greatly. On average, a single Chinese chicken skewer can contain anywhere from 100 to 200 calories.

In terms of macronutrients, Chinese chicken skewers are a good source of protein. A single skewer can contain anywhere from 10 to 20 grams of protein, depending on the recipe. This can be further increased by adding seafood such as shrimp or scallops to the skewers.

Fat content can also vary depending on the recipe. Chinese chicken skewers can contain anywhere from 2 to 10 grams of fat per skewer. It is important to pay attention to the type of fat used in the recipe, as some recipes may use saturated fats which are less healthy.

Carbohydrates are another important consideration. Depending on the recipe, Chinese chicken skewers can contain anywhere from 5 to 20 grams of carbohydrates per skewer. It is important to consider the source of these carbohydrates, as some recipes may use refined carbohydrates which are less healthy.

In terms of nutrition information, Chinese chicken skewers can be a good source of vitamins and minerals. For example, they can contain vitamin C from ingredients such as bell peppers and onions. Adding seafood such as shrimp or scallops can also increase the vitamin and mineral content of the skewers.

Overall, Chinese chicken skewers can be a healthy and nutritious addition to your diet. By paying attention to the nutritional information and choosing recipes that use healthy ingredients, you can enjoy this delicious dish without compromising your health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the secret to keeping chicken skewers moist during cooking?

The secret to keeping chicken skewers moist during cooking is to marinate them for at least 30 minutes before grilling or baking. This helps to not only add flavour, but also to keep the chicken from drying out during cooking. Another tip is to brush the skewers with oil or butter to help prevent sticking to the grill.

Can you recommend a good marinade for Asian-style chicken skewers?

A good marinade for Asian-style chicken skewers includes soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, ginger, and a touch of chilli flakes for some heat. You can also add lime juice or rice vinegar for some tanginess. If you want to add seafood to the marinade, try using prawns or scallops.

How long should I cook chicken skewers in the oven?

Chicken skewers should be cooked in the oven for 15-20 minutes at 180°C. Make sure to turn them over halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking on both sides. If you want to add seafood to the skewers, try using shrimp or salmon and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What are some healthy options for making chicken skewers?

Some healthy options for making chicken skewers include using skinless chicken breast, adding lots of vegetables such as peppers, onions, and zucchini, and using a low-fat marinade. You can also try using seafood such as shrimp or scallops for a healthier option.

What typically goes into a Chinese-style chicken skewer marinade?

A Chinese-style chicken skewer marinade typically includes soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder. You can also add some rice vinegar or sherry for extra flavour. If you want to add seafood to the marinade, try using squid or octopus.

Are there any tricks to ensure chicken skewers are cooked through but still juicy?

One trick to ensure chicken skewers are cooked through but still juicy is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. Another tip is to not overcook the chicken, which can cause it to become dry. If you want to add seafood to the skewers, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it is fully cooked.