Chef Mitchell preparing Glazed Grilled Chicken Bites
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the joy of making Glazed Grilled Chicken Bites while vacationing in Hawaii. The combination of sweet and savory flavors captured my heart. After experimenting with various marinades, I finally perfected this recipe to share with my friends and family. It has since become a staple at our gatherings, bringing a taste of the islands to our home."

With over a decade of experience in the culinary world, I specialize in Hawaiian cuisine and its vibrant flavors. My passion lies in creating approachable recipes that bring the essence of Hawaii to dinner tables everywhere. I love sharing my knowledge of traditional ingredients and cooking techniques.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Glazed Grilled Chicken Bites served on a plate

Why This Glazed Grilled Chicken Bites Recipe Works

This recipe combines the sweet and savory elements that are characteristic of Hawaiian cuisine. The marinade infuses the chicken with rich flavors while keeping it moist during grilling. The use of fresh ingredients and seasonings ensures each bite is bursting with taste.

Grilling the chicken on skewers helps to achieve that perfect char and caramelization, making the bites even more appetizing. The brief marinating time allows the flavors to penetrate without becoming overwhelming, creating a well-balanced dish that is simple to prepare.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, ensure that your grill is preheated and that you do not overcrowd the skewers. This allows for even cooking and prevents the chicken from steaming. Additionally, brushing the chicken with marinade during the last few minutes of grilling adds extra flavor and a beautiful glaze.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, simply skewer the chicken and grill as directed. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavor as the chicken absorbs the marinade.

If you're looking for a substitute for honey, agave syrup or maple syrup can work well in this recipe. Both alternatives will provide that desired sweetness without compromising the flavor. Just adjust the amount based on your taste preference.

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the chicken should be firm to the touch.

Yes, you can freeze the glazed grilled chicken bites. Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and taste.

These chicken bites pair wonderfully with steamed rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve them with a tangy dipping sauce for added flavor, making it a perfect finger food for gatherings.

In the refrigerator, Glazed Grilled Chicken Bites can last for up to 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain their flavor and texture.

Definitely! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken ahead of time, making it a great choice for meal prep. Just remember to keep the marinated chicken in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill.

The best way to reheat these chicken bites is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the chicken from becoming dry.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your chicken bites turn out too dry, it may be due to overcooking.

Solution: To prevent this, always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and remove the chicken from the grill once it reaches 165°F (75°C).

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the chicken bites are not crispy, it might be due to insufficient grilling time or too much marinade.

Solution: Ensure that the grill is hot enough before placing the skewers on it. Avoid overcrowding the grill to allow the heat to circulate around the chicken for a crispy exterior.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken can become tough and chewy.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, monitor the cooking time closely and check the internal temperature regularly. If you notice the chicken is getting too firm, remove it from the heat immediately.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: Sometimes chicken bites may be undercooked in the center.

Recovery: If this happens, you can return the skewers to the grill for a few more minutes, ensuring they are cooked through. Always check the temperature before serving.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can occur if the heat is too high or if the chicken is left on the grill too long.

Prevention: Keep an eye on the grilling time and adjust the grill temperature as needed. Move the skewers to a cooler part of the grill if they are cooking too quickly.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If your chicken bites are too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: For overly salty chicken, serve it with a side of unsalted rice or vegetables to balance the taste.

Bland: If the flavor is too bland, try adding more spices or herbs to the marinade for an extra kick.

Fresh ingredients for Glazed Grilled Chicken Bites

Essential Ingredients for Glazed Grilled Chicken Bites

The key ingredients for Glazed Grilled Chicken Bites include chicken breast, soy sauce, and a mix of sweeteners like honey and brown sugar. These components work together to create a delicious marinade that penetrates the chicken, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Using high-quality chicken and fresh ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final dish. Opt for organic chicken when possible and ensure your spices are fresh to achieve the best flavor.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breast: Choose skinless, boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option. Cutting them into uniform pieces ensures even cooking and tenderness. Marinating the chicken for longer infuses it with flavor and moisture.
  • Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you're watching your salt intake. It still provides the same depth of flavor without being overpowering. Experiment with different types of soy sauce for unique flavor profiles.
  • Honey: Use raw honey for a richer taste and potential health benefits. Adjust the quantity based on your sweetness preference, and don't be afraid to mix it with other sweeteners like maple syrup for a unique glaze.
Cooking process for Glazed Grilled Chicken Bites

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Making Glazed Grilled Chicken Bites is straightforward and rewarding. Start by preparing the marinade and allowing the chicken to soak in it for maximum flavor. The grilling process is simple – just ensure your grill is hot enough to create that beautiful char.

By following these steps closely, you'll achieve perfectly cooked chicken bites that are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The glaze enhances the flavor while also creating an attractive shine.

Key Technique for Perfect Glazed Grilled Chicken Bites

The most crucial technique for perfect Glazed Grilled Chicken Bites is ensuring even cooking. Use a preheated grill and avoid overcrowding the skewers. This allows the heat to circulate and ensures that every piece cooks uniformly, resulting in tender and flavorful bites.

Glazed Grilled Chicken Bites

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    Low sodium preferred
  • 1/4 cup honey
    Or agave syrup
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
    Packed
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tbsp ginger powder
    For depth

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken breast
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup soy sauce
    Low sodium preferred
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
    Packed
  • 1/4 cup honey
    Or agave syrup
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 tsp ginger powder
    For depth
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    To taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Marinade

    In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, black pepper, rice vinegar, and pineapple juice until well combined.

  2. Marinate Chicken

    Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for best flavor.

  3. Preheat Grill

    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C).

  4. Skewer Chicken

    Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.

  5. Grill Chicken

    Place the skewers on the grill, cooking for about 6-8 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

  6. Glaze Chicken

    During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken with the remaining marinade to glaze the bites.

  7. Garnish

    Once cooked, remove from grill and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds.

  8. Serve

    Serve hot as an appetizer or main dish, with rice or salad on the side.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftovers of Glazed Grilled Chicken Bites, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can last for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them as mentioned earlier.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken bites are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Try them with coconut rice, a fresh tropical fruit salad, or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

For a different flavor profile, you can add spices like cayenne pepper for heat or use different types of sweeteners. You can also substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian option.