Go Back
Print Recipe

Filipino Chicken BBQ Skewers

These Filipino Chicken BBQ Skewers are quick to prepare and packed with sweet and smoky flavor, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Prep Time1 hour
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time1 hour 12 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: BBQ, Filipino, Grilled
Keyword: BBQ Skewers, Filipino Chicken BBQ Skewers, Grilled Chicken, Sweet and Smoky
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size cubes Boneless chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness.
  • 1/2 cup banana ketchup For glazing.
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons calamansi juice or lemon juice Substitution for calamansi.
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon oil for the marinade, plus more for grilling
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon banana ketchup extra, optional for glazing
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne, optional for heat
  • splash soda, optional for extra caramelization

For Skewering

  • Wooden skewers soaked in water for 20 to 30 minutes Prevents burning.

Instructions

Marinate Chicken

  • In a bowl, whisk together banana ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, calamansi juice, oyster sauce, garlic, ginger, oil, and pepper. Adjust taste.
  • Add the chicken pieces and toss well to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 45 minutes in the fridge.
  • For best results, marinate for 3 to 6 hours; overnight is great but avoid more than 12 hours.

Grill Skewers

  • Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked skewers, packing pieces fairly close.
  • Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  • Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side, then rotate for char marks and continue grilling until the center reaches 165 F, approximately 10 to 12 minutes in total.
  • Brush with reserved marinade toward the end of grilling.
  • Let skewers rest for 3 minutes off heat before serving.

Glaze with Sauce

  • While chicken is cooking, brush on a thin layer of glaze with banana ketchup and soy sauce mixture.
  • Apply light layers to achieve a sticky, glossy finish.

Serve Hot

  • Serve skewers hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a squeeze of calamansi. Best enjoyed with rice or garlic rice.

Notes

These skewers can be served with various sides, such as pickled vegetables or stews. For meal preps, store leftovers in an airtight container.