Description
These grilled Thai coconut chicken skewers are juicy, smoky, and bursting with sweet-and-savory flavor. Marinated in creamy coconut milk, aromatic spices, and Thai-inspired seasonings, they’re perfect for summer grilling or easy entertaining, offering a delightful balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy notes.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1½-inch pieces
- 1 cup canned full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon red curry paste
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Grilling
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic, ginger, red curry paste, turmeric, paprika, and black pepper until fully combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for the best flavor infusion.
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Thread Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto each skewer, ensuring the pieces are secure and evenly spaced for consistent cooking.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, about 400°F, to prepare for grilling the skewers.
- Grill Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10–12 minutes total, turning every 2–3 minutes. Grill until the chicken pieces are lightly charred and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 3–5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for added brightness.
Notes
- Chicken thighs provide the juiciest and most flavorful results compared to breasts.
- For extra heat, add sliced Thai chilies or chili paste to the marinade.
- These skewers can also be cooked on a grill pan or broiled in the oven if a grill isn’t available.
- Serve with complementary sides such as peanut sauce, jasmine rice, or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and remain good for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai-Inspired
