Smoky Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe
This chicken skewers recipe features smoky grilled chicken marinated in fresh ginger, garlic, creamy coconut cream, and savory soy sauce. Packed with bold Thai flavors, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for grilling season.
What Are Chicken Skewers?
Chicken skewers are tender chunks of chicken threaded onto sticks, marinated in fragrant herbs and spices, then grilled to juicy perfection. They make delicious appetizers, main dishes, or additions to salads and wraps.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The marinade combines authentic Thai spices, soy sauce, and rich coconut cream for a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick prep make it ideal for beginners and busy cooks.
- Versatile Dish: Serve as a main course, party appetizer, or customize with vegetables and spice levels.
- Crowd Favorite: Universally appealing flavors make these skewers perfect for family gatherings and BBQs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken: Boneless dark meat for juicy, tender results.
- Marinade: Fresh ginger, garlic, light and dark soy sauce, coconut cream, sugar, oyster sauce.
- Glaze: Coconut cream, honey, soy sauce.
- Optional Peanut Sauce: Natural peanut butter, rice vinegar, Thai red curry paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, sesame oil, chili oil, crushed peanuts.
How to Make Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Combine ginger, garlic, soy sauces, sugar, oyster sauce, and coconut cream. Marinate chicken pieces for 1–2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Skewer the Chicken
Thread marinated chicken onto soaked wooden skewers, ensuring pieces are snug to cook evenly and prevent burning.
Step 3: Grill and Glaze
Grill skewers over high heat (around 500°F) for 15–18 minutes, turning regularly. In the final minutes, brush with coconut glaze to caramelize for a sweet finish.
Quick and Easy Peanut Sauce (Optional)
Mix coconut cream, natural peanut butter, rice vinegar, red curry paste, maple syrup, and soy sauce. Thin with water to desired consistency and top with crushed peanuts for texture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Skewers
- Use full-fat coconut cream for richer flavor and better marinade consistency.
- Marinate overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor infusion.
- Keep chicken skin on for added moisture, flavor, and crispiness when grilled.
- Soak wooden skewers in water before grilling to prevent burning.
- Preheat the grill to ensure even cooking and nice sear marks.
- Allow skewers to rest a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
- Create a Thai-inspired salad with shredded cabbage, carrots, cucumber, and peanut dressing.
- Make lettuce wraps with grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and sweet chili sauce.
- Pair skewers with coconut-infused quinoa, pineapple, and avocado for a tropical bowl.
- Offer as appetizers with dipping sauces at parties.
- Complement with classic Thai soups like Tom Yum or Tom Kha.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade.
- Vegetables: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes on skewers.
- Alternative Meats: Substitute chicken with pork shoulder or pork butt for different flavors.
How to Store Leftovers
- Cool cooked skewers to room temperature before storing.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat by grilling briefly, microwaving, or baking until warmed through.
- Freeze raw marinated chicken for future grilling but avoid freezing cooked skewers to maintain texture and flavor.
