Chicken on a stick is a fun, tasty, and versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or even a quick snack. It’s easy to prepare, customizable with your favorite flavors, and a great way to enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken in a handheld form. If you’ve ever wondered how to make chicken on a stick, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from ingredients to cooking tips.
What Is Chicken on a Stick?
Chicken on a stick typically involves marinating or seasoning pieces of chicken, threading them onto skewers, and then cooking them by grilling, baking, or frying. The result is tender, flavorful chicken that’s easy to eat and share. You can customize the marinade or seasoning to suit your taste, whether you prefer sweet teriyaki, spicy Asian-inspired flavors, or a crispy battered version.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a basic list of ingredients for a popular and delicious teriyaki-style chicken on a stick:
– Boneless skinless chicken tenders or thighs
– Brown sugar
– Soy sauce
– Rice wine vinegar
– Honey
– Minced garlic
– Ground ginger
– Pepper
– Cornstarch (for thickening sauce)
– Wooden or metal skewers
You can also add green onions and sesame seeds for garnish when serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
Mix together brown sugar, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, and pepper in a medium bowl. This mixture will be your teriyaki marinade and sauce base.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Reserve about half a cup of the marinade for later. Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or gallon-size bag, and pour the remaining marinade over the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.
3. Soak the Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in cold water for at least 10 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
4. Thread the Chicken
Thread 3 to 4 chicken tenders lengthwise onto each skewer. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easy to handle on the grill or in the oven.
5. Cook the Chicken
Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken skewers for about 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Oven Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a wire rack over a baking sheet for even cooking. Bake for 12 minutes, then broil for an additional 3-5 minutes until cooked through and slightly charred.
Frying (Battered Style): For a crispy version, dip skewered chicken (with optional vegetables like onions and bell peppers) into a seasoned batter and deep fry until golden and cooked through.
6. Make the Sauce
While the chicken cooks, mix the reserved marinade with cornstarch and heat it in a saucepan over medium-high heat, whisking constantly until thickened. This will be your glaze to brush over the cooked chicken.
7. Serve and Garnish
Brush the thickened sauce over the cooked chicken skewers. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation. Serve with rice, salad, or your favorite sides.
Tips for Perfect Chicken on a Stick
– Choose the right cut: Chicken tenders and thighs work best because they stay juicy and cook quickly.
– Marinate for flavor: Don’t rush the marinade—longer marinating means more flavor.
– Soak wooden skewers: This prevents them from burning on the grill or in the fryer.
– Cook evenly: Turn skewers regularly to get a nice char without burning.
– Use a meat thermometer: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe eating.
– Customize your flavors: Try different marinades like spicy chili paste, lemon herb, or barbecue for variety.
Variations to Try
– Chinese-style chicken on a stick: Use soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and gochujang chili paste for a rich, spicy marinade.
– Battered chicken on a stick: Dip skewered chicken and veggies in a crispy batter made with flour, paprika, garlic powder, and beer, then deep fry for a crunchy treat.
– Oven-baked lemon garlic chicken: Season chicken tenders with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then bake for a lighter option.
Why Chicken on a Stick Is a Crowd-Pleaser
Chicken on a stick is not only delicious but also practical. It’s easy to eat without utensils, making it perfect for casual gatherings, picnics, or kids’ meals. Plus, it’s a great way to experiment with different flavors and cooking methods. Whether grilled, baked, or fried, chicken on a stick always delivers juicy, flavorful bites that everyone loves.
Try making your own chicken on a stick at home with these simple steps and enjoy a fun, tasty meal anytime!
Chicken on a stick is easy to make, customizable, and always a hit at the table. Give it a try and watch your family and friends ask for seconds!