Kung Pao Chicken Skewers
Dive into the enchanting world of Kung Pao Chicken Skewers, where vibrant flavors take you on a culinary journey through the lively streets of Asia. Picture colourful bell peppers, juicy pineapple chunks, and delicious pieces of marinated chicken strung onto skewers with a flavorful combination of spices and herbs. Then, each piece is tenderly char-grilled to perfection on these skewers, giving it a delicious smokey flavour. The secret to these skewers’ tempting blend of heat, tanginess, and umami richness is in the Kung Pao glaze, a symphony of flavours.
The glaze flawlessly coats the chicken and infuses it with layers of savoury and somewhat sweet flavours. It is made with a potpourri of ingredients including soy sauce, vinegar, honey, garlic, and chilli flakes. Your taste buds will be tantalized by a harmonic explosion of flavours that dance on your palette with each scrumptious bite that you take.
The brilliant colours and alluring perfume of these Kung Pao Chicken Skewers enchant the eyes as well as the taste receptors. The aroma of charred chicken and caramelized glaze wafts through the air as they sizzle on the grill, creating an alluring attraction that calls you closer. A sensory symphony is produced by the marriage of the moist, soft chicken, the mild char on the edges, and the delicious crunch of the bell peppers and pineapple.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, a casual gathering with friends, or simply looking to add a touch of excitement to your weeknight dinner, Kung Pao Chicken Skewers are a surefire way to impress. The contrast of flavors, the visual appeal, and the sheer satisfaction of biting into these delectable skewers will make them the star of any occasion.
So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and embark on a culinary journey that will take your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure. Get ready to savor the magic of Kung Pao Chicken Skewers and create cherished memories with every delicious bite.
Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Total Time 35 mins
Serves 4-5
Step 1
Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade mixture and toss to coat evenly. .
Step 2
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 3
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill
Step 4
Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator and begin assembling the skewers.
Step 5
Thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating with chunks of red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and pineapple. Repeat the process until all the ingredients are used up.
Step 6
Lightly oil the grill grates or grill pan to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be cooked through and have a slightly charred exterior.
Step 7
Brush the Kung Pao glaze liberally over the skewers during the final few minutes of grilling, allowing it to cover the chicken and vegetables. The flavours will be improved, and a caramelized coating will be added.
Step 8
Once the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are slightly charred, remove the skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
Step 9
Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Step 10
Enjoy!
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
For the Marinade:
- 2-3 tbs of Kung Pao Sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
Can I use bone-in chicken for Kung Pao Chicken Skewers?
While boneless chicken is commonly used for skewers, you can certainly use bone-in chicken if desired. Keep in mind that bone-in chicken may require a longer cooking time to ensure it is fully cooked.
Can I make Kung Pao Chicken Skewers without a grill?
Yes, if you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or even bake the skewers in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a lined baking sheet. Bake for approximately 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Can I substitute the pineapple with another fruit?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like mango or even peaches for a unique twist. Ensure the fruit is firm enough to be threaded onto the skewers.
Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?
Yes, you can use metal skewers if you prefer. Metal skewers conduct heat more efficiently and may require less cooking time.
Can I make Kung Pao Chicken Skewers with a gluten-free marinade?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce to ensure the marinade is gluten-free. Check the labels of the sauces to ensure they are gluten-free certified.
Can I cook the skewers in the oven on a broiler setting?
Yes, you can use the broiler setting to cook the skewers under high heat for a few minutes, turning them once to ensure even cooking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Can I serve Kung Pao Chicken Skewers with a side dish?
Absolutely! Serve the skewers alongside steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad.