Recipes

Mother's Day: Ginger-Sesame Chicken Skewers Recipe

Posted by Niel Neethling on March 25, 2025

Mother's Day is the perfect occasion to whip up something special for the amazing woman in your life. Whether it’s your mum, grandmother, or any maternal figure, nothing says “I appreciate you” quite like a home-cooked meal made with love. This year, why not add a little twist to the celebration with a dish that’s both tantalising and unique? Enter the Ginger-Sesame Chicken Skewers—a delightful blend of flavours that are sure to impress.

The Essence of Ginger-Sesame Chicken Skewers

Let’s dive into the heart of this dish. The Ginger-Sesame Chicken Skewers are a harmonious marriage of ginger’s zesty kick and the earthy nuttiness of sesame. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, making it a perfect centrepiece for your Mother’s Day meal.

Ingredients: What You Need

The magic of these skewers lies in the combination of simple yet flavourful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Breast: 450 grams of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces.
Fresh Ginger: 2 tablespoons, grated. It adds a spicy warmth and fragrant aroma.
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Garlic enhances the depth of flavour.
Soy Sauce: 60 millilitres for a salty, umami-rich base.
Sesame Oil: 2 tablespoons for that unmistakable toasty taste.
Honey: 2 tablespoons to balance the savoury notes with a hint of sweetness.
Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon for a subtle tang.
Black and White Sesame Seeds: 2 tablespoons, toasted, to add a crunchy texture.
Spring Onions (Optional): Chopped, for garnish.
Skewers: Soaked in water if wooden, to prevent burning.

The Marinade: Infusing Flavours

The secret to these skewers lies in the marinade. Combining grated ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and rice vinegar creates a symphony of flavours that permeate the chicken, making each bite irresistible.

To make the marinade, simply whisk all the ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Submerge the chicken pieces in this mixture and let them soak up the flavours for at least an hour in the refrigerator. If you have time, marinate overnight for an even more profound flavour experience.

Preparing the Chicken Skewers

Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers. You can add some colour and variety by alternating with vegetables like bell peppers or onions if desired. Remember, the key is to keep the pieces uniform in size to ensure even cooking.

Grilling: Bringing It All Together

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan on the hob works just as well. Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking.

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. You’re aiming for a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. This part is where the magic happens—the heat caramelises the honey in the marinade, creating a beautiful glaze on the chicken.

Serving Suggestions: Making It a Meal

The beauty of these skewers is their versatility. Serve them as a main dish alongside a fresh salad, or pair them with a side of jasmine rice to soak up any extra sauce. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped spring onions just before serving for that final touch.

A Side Note: Customising Your Creation

Feel free to make this dish your own. If you’re catering to someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt the recipe. Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version or swap honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly glaze.

A Culinary Journey: Tips and Tricks

Marination Time: The longer the chicken marinates, the deeper the flavour. Aim for at least an hour, but overnight is ideal if you have the time.
Uniform Size: Cut the chicken pieces uniformly to ensure they cook evenly.
Grill Marks: For those perfect grill marks, resist the urge to move the skewers around too much. Let them sear undisturbed for the initial minutes.
Resting Time: Allow the skewers to rest for a couple of minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite succulent.

Bringing It All Together: The Final Touch

The Ginger-Sesame Chicken Skewers are more than just a dish; they’re a culinary journey that brings together flavours, textures, and aromas in perfect harmony. As you serve this delightful meal, you’re not just sharing food; you’re sharing a piece of your heart.

This Mother’s Day, let your kitchen be the stage where you create a masterpiece that will be remembered. Whether you’re an aspiring chef eager to explore new flavours or a home cook looking to spice up your routine, these skewers are your gateway to culinary artistry.

Happy cooking, and here’s to making this Mother’s Day a truly special and delicious celebration!