Filipino Chicken BBQ Skewers

These Filipino chicken BBQ skewers bring together juicy chicken pieces with a sweet and tangy marinade that caramelizes beautifully over the grill. The flavor strikes a perfect balance between savory soy sauce and bright, slightly sweet ketchup, making these skewers a crowd pleaser whether for a summertime cookout or a casual weeknight meal.

I first tried this recipe at a backyard party and immediately knew it would be the goto dish whenever I host friends or family

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs: boneless and skinless for juicy, tender meat that stays moist during grilling
• Soy sauce: brings savory umami power and saltiness, choose naturally brewed soy sauce for best depth of flavor
• Ketchup: adds tangy sweetness and balances the salty elements, pick a quality brand for richer taste
• Brown sugar: enhances caramelization and creates that sticky glaze, try light brown sugar for a subtle molasses note
• Garlic: minced for that essential aromatic punch, fresh garlic cloves make a big difference in flavor
• Calamansi or lime juice: brightens the marinade with a refreshing citrus zing, use fresh calamansi if available or substitute with lime for authenticity
• Black pepper: freshly ground adds mild heat and complexity

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

First, prepare your marinade by mixing soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, fresh calamansi or lime juice, and freshly ground black pepper in a bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely which helps evenly coat the chicken.

Marinate the Chicken:

Cut the chicken thighs into evenly sized pieces about one to one and a half inches for even cooking. Place the chicken pieces in the marinade making sure every piece is submerged. Refrigerate and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor absorption.

Prepare the Skewers:

If you are using wooden skewers soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even heat circulation and thorough cooking.

Grill the Skewers:

Preheat your grill or grill pan to mediumhigh heat to get those beautiful char marks. Grill the skewers for about 6 to 8 minutes per side basting occasionally with the leftover marinade to build up the sticky, caramelized coating. Turn carefully to avoid breaking the chicken chunks apart.

Rest and Serve:

Once cooked through and nicely charred remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This step helps juices redistribute so your bite will be tender and juicy. Serve with steamed rice and a simple side salad or pickled vegetables for a complete meal.

I remember my first time making these skewers for a family picnic where everyone raved about the unique tangy twist that set it apart from regular BBQ

Storage tips

Store the cooked skewers wrapped tightly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheat gently to preserve their tender texture. For longer storage freeze them separated by parchment paper in a container for up to two months.

Ingredient substitutions

If you cannot find calamansi fresh lime juice is the closest substitute bringing similar acidity and brightness. For a soy allergy consider coconut aminos as a mild alternative but expect a slightly different taste. Use honey instead of brown sugar if you want a different natural sweetness profile.

Serving suggestions

Serve these skewers with garlic fried rice or coconut rice to enhance the tropical vibe. A side of fresh cucumber salad or pickled papaya adds a refreshing contrast and they pair nicely with a cold beer or a light white wine for casual entertaining.

These skewers are simple to make and deliver big flavor perfect for casual meals or parties. With a little prep they also make a great freezer meal for busy weeks.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ What gives these chicken skewers their caramelized flavor?

The marinade made from ketchup and soy sauce creates a tangy-sweet glaze that caramelizes perfectly when grilled, forming a sticky, flavorful coating.

→ How long should the chicken marinate for best flavor?

For optimal taste, marinate the chicken pieces for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully absorb before grilling.

→ Can these skewers be cooked indoors?

Yes, grilling on a stovetop grill pan or broiling in the oven can achieve similar caramelization and charred texture.

→ What side dishes pair well with these skewers?

Steamed rice, a fresh side salad, or grilled vegetables complement the smoky and tangy flavors beautifully.

→ Are these skewers suitable for lactose-free diets?

Yes, all ingredients used are lactose-free, making these skewers a great option for those with lactose intolerance.