Filipino Chicken Skewers

Filipino Chicken Skewers are a delightful treat that brings the vibrant flavors of the Philippines right to your grill. Perfect for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or cozy weeknight dinners, these skewers are not only easy to prepare but also packed with savory goodness. The combination of soy sauce, banana ketchup, and garlic creates an irresistible marinade that keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can impress your guests with this crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes minimal time to marinate and grill, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The blend of soy sauce and banana ketchup gives a unique twist that is both savory and sweet.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these skewers as appetizers, main dishes, or party snacks; they fit any occasion!
• Healthier Choice: This dish is low in calories and high in protein, a great option for health-conscious eaters.
• Easy Clean-Up: Grilling means fewer pots and pans to wash afterward – just enjoy your meal!

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bamboo skewers
• Mixing bowl
• Grill
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Bamboo skewers: These are essential for threading the chicken pieces, allowing for even cooking on the grill.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl helps combine ingredients thoroughly for a well-marinated chicken.
• Grill: An outdoor grill adds that delicious smoky flavor while searing the chicken to perfection.
• Basting brush: Use this tool to apply olive oil during grilling for moist and flavorful skewers.

Ingredients

Filipino Chicken Skewers – juicy, moist and savory chicken kebab seasoned Filipino-style with soy sauce, banana ketchup and garlic. Absolutely delicious and a crowd pleaser!

For the Chicken Marinade

• 12 oz (350g) boneless and skinless chicken breasts (cut into cubes)
• 3/4 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon banana ketchup
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 inch (2.5cm) ginger (minced)
• 1 pinch salt
• 3 dashes ground black pepper
• 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons Pompeian Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

How to Make Filipino Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Soak Bamboo Skewers

Soak the bamboo skewers in water for about 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken cubes with soy sauce, sweet soy sauce, banana ketchup, minced garlic, minced ginger, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well to ensure all pieces are coated evenly. Let it marinate for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Thread Chicken onto Skewers

Take the soaked bamboo skewers and thread several pieces of marinated chicken onto each skewer. Aim for an even distribution so they cook uniformly.

Step 4: Preheat Grill

Preheat your outdoor grill over medium-high heat. It should be hot enough to create nice grill marks on your skewers.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Place the chicken skewers on the grill. Brush them lightly with Pompeian Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil while grilling. Turn them after a few minutes when one side is slightly charred. Grill until both sides are cooked through.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Once cooked perfectly, serve your Filipino Chicken Skewers immediately for the best flavor! Enjoy them hot off the grill!

How to Serve Filipino Chicken Skewers

Filipino Chicken Skewers are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, but there are many delightful ways to serve them. Pairing them with various sides and sauces can enhance their flavor and create a beautiful presentation.

With Dipping Sauces

• Spicy Vinegar Sauce – A tangy, spicy vinegar sauce complements the sweetness of the skewers.
• Peanut Sauce – Creamy peanut sauce adds a rich texture that balances the savory chicken.
• Garlic Sauce – A simple garlic sauce amplifies the garlic flavor in the skewers, perfect for garlic lovers.

On a Bed of Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice – Fluffy jasmine rice provides a fragrant base for the skewers.
• Coconut Rice – Slightly sweet coconut rice pairs well with the savory flavors of the chicken.

Wrapped in Lettuce

• Lettuce Wraps – Serve skewers in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing bite-sized option.
• Herb Sprouts – Add fresh herbs or sprouts for an extra crunch and burst of flavor.

How to Perfect Filipino Chicken Skewers

To ensure your Filipino Chicken Skewers come out juicy and flavorful, follow these simple tips.

• Marinate Longer – Allowing the chicken to marinate for more than 30 minutes can deepen the flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the overall taste significantly.
• Preheat Your Grill – A well-heated grill ensures even cooking and adds nice char marks.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers – Leaving space between chicken pieces allows for better heat circulation while grilling.

Best Side Dishes for Filipino Chicken Skewers

Pairing side dishes with your Filipino Chicken Skewers can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Fried Rice – Savory fried rice infused with garlic complements the skewers perfectly.
2. Grilled Vegetables – Assorted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrients.
3. Pineapple Salsa – A refreshing pineapple salsa provides a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
4. Asian Slaw – Crunchy cabbage slaw dressed in sesame oil offers a crisp texture and balance.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter makes for a delicious summer side.
6. Mango Salad – Fresh mango slices mixed with greens give a light and fruity accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Filipino Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping the marinade time: Allowing the chicken to marinate is crucial for flavor. Avoid rushing this step; aim for at least 30 minutes.
• Using dry skewers: If you don’t soak bamboo skewers, they can catch fire on the grill. Always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand.
• Not preheating the grill: A properly heated grill helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor. Preheat your grill before adding the chicken skewers.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too much chicken on each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure there’s space between pieces for even heat distribution.
• Neglecting oil on the grill: Failing to brush oil on the chicken or grill can cause sticking. Use Pompeian Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil for better results.
• Forgetting to turn the skewers: Turning ensures all sides are evenly cooked and charred. Remember to rotate them while grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Filipino Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Filipino Chicken Skewers

• Wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can freeze them for up to 2 months.

Reheating Filipino Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Microwave: Place skewers in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and reheat the skewers for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Filipino Chicken Skewers, you’re not alone. Here are some common queries.

How can I make Filipino Chicken Skewers spicier?

To add spice, you can incorporate chopped chili peppers or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the marinade before soaking your chicken cubes.

Can I use other meats for these skewers?

Yes! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can substitute with beef or turkey if desired. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on meat choice.

What sides pair well with Filipino Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair wonderfully with rice dishes, grilled vegetables, or fresh salads. Try serving them with a side of coconut rice for added flavor!

Are Filipino Chicken Skewers suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They are great for meal prep as they store well and can be easily reheated for quick lunches or dinners during the week.

Final Thoughts

Filipino Chicken Skewers are not only flavorful but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. You can customize them by adding different marinades or veggies between chicken pieces before grilling. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!