Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers for Father’s Day (Oven or Grill)

By : Moiz Blogger | 0 Comments | On : 20/10/2026 | Category : Father's Day Recipes

Honey garlic chicken skewers are a practical Father’s Day dinner idea with tender pieces of chicken coated in a sweet-savory glaze. Cook them on an outdoor grill or under an oven broiler. The key to juicy results is cutting the chicken evenly, using moderate heat and checking the thickest piece reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Recipe at a glance

Prep: 15 minutes | Marinate: 30 minutes | Cook: about 12–16 minutes | Serves: 4 | Equipment: Skewers, bowl, grill or broiler, instant-read thermometer.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil
• 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger, optional
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bell pepper, cut into large pieces, optional
• 2 green onions, sliced, for serving, optional

Allergen note: Soy sauce usually contains soy and often wheat. Use a suitable gluten-free tamari if required and check the label.

How to make honey garlic chicken skewers

1. Prepare the marinade. In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, honey, oil, garlic, lemon juice, optional ginger and black pepper until combined.
2. Marinate the chicken. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Do not marinate raw chicken at room temperature.
3. Prepare skewers. If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with bell pepper if using. Leave small gaps for even cooking.
4. Heat the grill. Preheat to medium heat and lightly oil the grates. Place skewers on the grill and cook for about 12–16 minutes, turning every few minutes to brown evenly. Cooking time varies with heat and piece size.
5. Check doneness. Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest chicken piece, avoiding the skewer. Chicken must reach 165°F (74°C). If not, continue cooking and recheck.
6. Serve. Transfer cooked skewers to a clean plate, garnish with green onions and serve hot. Never put cooked chicken back on the plate that held raw chicken.

Oven broiler method

Position an oven rack approximately 6 inches (15 cm) below the broiler and preheat. Arrange skewers on a foil-lined, rimmed baking tray. Broil for approximately 12–16 minutes, turning halfway through, until lightly browned and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Watch closely because honey can darken quickly. Broiler strengths vary widely.

How to prevent dry or burnt chicken

Use chicken thighs for a forgiving, juicy texture. Cut all pieces to a similar size so they finish cooking together. Avoid very high heat because honey caramelizes quickly and can burn before the chicken is cooked through. The thermometer matters more than the clock. If you prefer chicken breast, start checking earlier and avoid overcooking.

Can I use leftover marinade as a glaze?

Do not brush marinade that has touched raw chicken onto fully cooked food unless it is first brought to a full boil. For an easy finishing glaze, mix and reserve a separate small portion of marinade before adding the raw chicken. Apply the reserved clean glaze during the final minutes of cooking.

Father’s Day serving ideas

Serve the skewers with rice, grilled vegetables and a crisp cucumber tomato salad. For a lighter starter, offer red lentil soup. Keep raw and cooked foods separate when grilling outdoors.

Storage and reheating

Refrigerate leftovers within two hours (within one hour when outdoor temperatures exceed 90°F/32°C) in covered containers at 40°F (4°C) or below. Use within 3–4 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat leftovers to 165°F (74°C). Do not reuse raw-chicken marinade without boiling it thoroughly.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare chicken skewers the night before?

You can cut the chicken and mix the marinade ahead, keeping both refrigerated separately. For best texture, marinate the chicken for about 30 minutes to 4 hours rather than leaving it overnight in an acidic marinade.

How do I know chicken skewers are cooked?

Check the center of the thickest piece with a food thermometer. Poultry is safe at 165°F (74°C).

Can I cook these without a grill?

Yes. Use an oven broiler with a rimmed tray and check temperature carefully.

Are honey garlic chicken skewers spicy?

No, the listed ingredients are mild. Add a pinch of chili flakes if you want heat.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but breast meat cooks differently and dries out faster. Check the internal temperature early.

Editorial note

This is original editorial recipe guidance, not a claim of independent kitchen testing. Cooking times are estimates; use a food thermometer. Any featured photograph is illustrative and may not depict the exact preparation.