
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers are a popular Japanese-inspired dish where bite-sized pieces of chicken are marinated or glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, then threaded onto skewers and grilled or broiled. The classic teriyaki sauce is a simple blend of soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine), and sugar, which caramelizes beautifully under heat. This preparation transforms simple chicken into a flavorful, glossy, and tender appetizer or main course.
This dish is primarily a high-protein option, with the chicken providing lean protein essential for muscle repair and satiety. The teriyaki glaze adds carbohydrates from sugar and sodium from soy sauce, while grilling allows some fat to render off. A typical serving of two skewers (about 150g of chicken) generally falls in the 250-350 calorie range, depending on the thickness of the glaze and exact cut of chicken used.
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbs | 15 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 12 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Potassium | 380 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.6 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 9 mg |
| Phosphorus | 280 mg |
| Zinc | 2.5 mg |
| Selenium | 25 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 4 mg |
Per 3 skewers (180 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Culturally, the technique of 'teriyaki'—a cooking method where food is grilled or broiled with a glaze—originated in Japan, though the sweeter, thicker sauce version popular globally is a modern adaptation. Nutritionally, pairing the lean protein of chicken with a flavorful sauce can make healthy eating more satisfying, and the skewer format encourages portion control and fun, interactive dining.