Grilled Miso Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers

Short Description

Grilled Miso Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers are a mouthwatering fusion of Japanese and Western flavors. Tender pieces of chicken are marinated in a blend of white miso, honey, mustard, and spices, then grilled to a golden finish and brushed with a buttery mustard sauce. These skewers are perfect for casual dinners or outdoor barbecues.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Balanced Flavors: The miso adds a deep umami note that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of honey and tang of mustard.
• Simple Yet Impressive: Easy to prepare with pantry staples, yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings.
• Customizable Cooking Options: Can be grilled or cooked in an air fryer with equally delicious results.
• Meal Prep Friendly: The chicken can be marinated in advance for added convenience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 2 to 2½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons white miso paste
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
• Black pepper to taste

For the Finishing Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together mustard, miso, honey, oil, soy sauce, mirin, garlic, salt, paprika, and pepper. Add chicken and mix well to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
2. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread marinated chicken onto the skewers.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F to 425°F). While the grill heats, prepare the finishing sauce by mixing butter, mayonnaise, mustard, and parsley in a small bowl.
4. Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
5. Brush chicken with half of the finishing sauce during the final minute of grilling. Remove from grill and brush with the remaining sauce before serving.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 to 6
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (not including marinating time)

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or a mix of vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chili paste to the marinade for a spicier kick.
• Different Mustards: Try spicy brown or whole-grain mustard instead of Dijon for a twist on the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals until warm. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

What is the best cut of chicken for this recipe?

Chicken thighs are ideal due to their juiciness and ability to stay tender during grilling. Chicken breasts can also be used but may require careful cooking to avoid drying out.

Can I use red miso instead of white miso?

Red miso is stronger and saltier than white miso. It can be used, but the flavor will be bolder and less sweet.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended, but marinating for 3–4 hours or overnight yields the best flavor.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, the skewers can be cooked in an oven at 425°F or in an air fryer at 390°F. Adjust timing as needed to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally.

Is there a dairy-free version of the finishing sauce?

You can substitute dairy-free margarine for butter and use a plant-based mayonnaise to make the sauce dairy-free.

Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate and skewer the chicken up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

What sides go well with this dish?

These skewers pair well with rice, grilled vegetables, leafy salads, or warm flatbreads.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, place the chicken with marinade in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

What if I don’t have mirin?

You can substitute mirin with a mix of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar or use a sweet white wine.

How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F.

Conclusion

Grilled Miso Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers are a delightful way to enjoy bold and balanced flavors with minimal effort. This versatile dish is suited for both casual meals and entertaining guests. Whether prepared on the grill or in the air fryer, these skewers promise juicy, flavorful bites that are sure to please any crowd.

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