Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers: Grilled and Flavorful

Prepare to elevate your grilling game with these irresistible Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers. This recipe is a celebration of flavors, where tender chunks of chicken are marinated in a luscious coconut cream blend that grills up into a mouthwatering glaze. Perfect for a relaxed backyard barbecue or a star appetizer at your next gathering, these skewers are sure to steal the show.

I still remember the first time I introduced these Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers to my friends, and the rave reviews that followed. The magic of the coconut cream marinade adds a touch of sweetness and richness that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re a fan of Thai cuisine or new to its vibrant flavors, these skewers are bound to captivate your taste buds.

The secret to the success of this recipe lies in the coconut cream, infusing each bite with a luxurious finish that will have your guests licking their fingers clean. And don’t worry about leftovers—these skewers are so delicious that you may not have any to spare. So fire up the grill, thread on the chicken pieces, and get ready for a culinary journey that will transport you to the bustling streets of Thailand with every savory-sweet bite of these Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers.

Quick Benefits

• Tenderizes the chicken while caramelizing into a gorgeous glaze
• Bursting with sweet, salty, and savory flavors from the coconut marinade
• Versatile leftover option – can be reheated quickly and served in various ways
• Perfect for gatherings as they disappear in minutes, making them a crowd favorite

Why You’ll Love This Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers: Grilled and Flavorful Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The recipe combines sweet, salty, and savory flavors that create an explosion of taste in every bite.
• Tender and Juicy Chicken: The coconut marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also helps in caramelizing into a gorgeous glaze, making the chicken juicy and flavorful.
• Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these skewers are a hit at any event. The platter is guaranteed to disappear in minutes, making it a favorite among guests.
• Versatile Options: The recipe offers various options for customization, such as using different types of meats or nut-free alternatives for the sauce, making it adaptable to different dietary preferences.
• Make-ahead Convenience: The skewers can be prepared in advance, allowing for easy and quick reheating, making it a convenient option for busy schedules or planned gatherings.
• Authentic Thai Flavors: Recreating the vibrant flavors of traditional Thai street food, this dish transports you to the bustling night markets of Thailand, providing a unique culinary experience.
• Easy to Serve: Whether served on a platter with lettuce or cucumber, as a filling for lettuce wraps, or paired with jasmine rice, these skewers offer versatility in presentation and serving options.

Ingredients for Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers: Grilled and Flavorful

Chicken and Marinade

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1.5 tablespoons garlic, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely chopped
• 1 kg boneless chicken thighs or drumsticks, cut into 2.5 cm pieces
• 2 tablespoons coconut cream
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

Coconut Cream Glaze

• 1 teaspoon light soy sauce
• 6 tablespoons coconut cream
• 1.5 tablespoons honey

Simple Peanut Sauce (Optional)

• 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional)
• 2-3 tablespoons water, as needed
• 2 teaspoons light soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
• 2 tablespoons coconut cream
• 2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey
• Crushed roasted peanuts, for garnish (optional)
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 60 ml natural unsweetened peanut butter

Pro Tips for Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers: Grilled and Flavorful

Pro Tip 1: For the most flavorful and tender chicken skewers, marinate the chicken in the coconut cream mixture for at least 1-2 hours. For an extra depth of flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken overnight before grilling.

Pro Tip 2: If you can’t find coconut cream, use the thickest part of canned coconut milk as a substitute. To make the peanut sauce nut-free, swap in sunflower seed butter. While chicken breast can be used, be cautious not to overcook it on the grill to prevent dryness.

Pro Tip 3: To serve, pile the grilled skewers on a platter over lettuce or cucumbers to catch drips. They’re great in lettuce wraps or paired with jasmine rice for a satisfying meal. The peanut sauce can also double as a salad dressing when thinned out with water—perfect for mixed greens.

How to Make Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers: Grilled and Flavorful

Step 1: Prepare Peanut Sauce (Optional)

In a bowl, whisk together coconut cream, peanut butter, rice vinegar, red curry paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, and water until smooth. Adjust water for desired consistency. Stir in sesame oil and chili oil (if using). Garnish with crushed peanuts and set aside.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Cut chicken into 2.5 cm pieces, place in a large bowl, and add chopped ginger and garlic. Pour in light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, coconut cream, sugar, and oyster sauce. Mix well to coat evenly, cover, and refrigerate for 1-2 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Prepare Glaze

Combine coconut cream, honey, and light soy sauce in a small bowl for glazing during grilling.

Step 4: Skewer Chicken

Take the chicken out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling. Skewer the marinated pieces tightly onto soaked skewers, making sure the ends are secure.

Step 5: Grill Skewers

Preheat grill to 260°C. Cook skewers over direct heat, turning every 2–3 minutes, for 15–18 minutes until chicken is browned and cooked through.

Step 6: Glaze and Finish

Brush hot skewers with coconut cream glaze, flipping every minute and repeating 2 to 3 times until caramelized and sticky.

Step 7: Serve

Place the grilled skewers on a serving platter with fresh lettuce leaves. Serve with peanut sauce for dipping or lettuce wrapping.

Storage Tips

Once you have cooked and enjoyed the delicious Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers, it is important to store any leftovers properly to maintain their flavor and texture. Allow the cooked skewers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. These skewers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can quickly reheat them under a broiler or on a skillet for the best texture. Additionally, the peanut sauce may thicken after chilling, but you can easily thin it out by whisking in a little warm water.

To ensure the best results when storing the Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers, make sure to pack them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out in the refrigerator. If you find yourself without coconut cream, you can use the thickest part of a good canned coconut milk as a substitute. For a nut-free option in the dipping sauce, sunflower seed butter can be a suitable alternative. While chicken breast can be used as a substitute for thighs, be cautious not to overcook them on the grill to maintain their juiciness. By following these storage tips and substitution suggestions, you can continue to enjoy the flavorful and tender Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers even after your initial meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers recipe, if you don’t have coconut cream, you can use the thickest part of canned coconut milk as a substitute. This will still provide a creamy texture and coconut flavor to the marinade. Sunflower seed butter can be used instead of peanut butter for a nut-free option in the dipping sauce. It will give a similar richness and nutty flavor to the sauce.

If you prefer using chicken breast instead of thighs, ensure you cut it evenly into pieces to promote even cooking and prevent drying out on the grill. Keep a close eye on the chicken breast as it tends to cook faster than thighs. Additionally, if you want to make the dish milder, you can adjust or omit the Thai red curry paste in the sauce. This way, you can tailor the dish to your desired level of spiciness.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion with these Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers, try presenting them on a bed of vibrant shredded purple cabbage and fresh mint leaves. The colorful contrast will not only make your dish visually appealing but also add a refreshing crunch to each bite. Drizzle some extra peanut sauce over the skewers and garnish with a sprinkle of crushed roasted peanuts for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Another fun way to enjoy these skewers is to turn them into a DIY rice bowl station at your next gathering. Set out bowls of steamed jasmine rice, sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, and a variety of herbs like cilantro and Thai basil. Let your guests assemble their own rice bowls with a base of rice, topped with the Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers, and a generous drizzle of the creamy peanut sauce. It’s a customizable and interactive way to savor these delicious flavors!

FAQs for Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers: Grilled and Flavorful

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs in this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken breast if you cut it evenly and avoid overcooking on the grill. However, thighs tend to stay juicier during grilling.

What are some recommended side dishes to serve with these Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers?

Steamed jasmine rice, fresh cucumber salad, and lettuce wraps are excellent accompaniments to complement the flavors of the skewers.

Is the peanut sauce spicy?

The sauce has a gentle heat from the curry paste. You can adjust or omit the paste for a milder flavor if preferred.

Do I need a grill to make these skewers?

No, if you don’t have a grill, you can cook the skewers in a grill pan or under a broiler as an alternative cooking method.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers are a delightful blend of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Thailand. The succulent chicken, marinated in coconut cream and spices, grilled to perfection, and served with a luscious peanut sauce, is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a taste of something exotic, these skewers are sure to impress.

So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and treat them to a culinary adventure with these Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers. The tantalizing aroma and delicious taste will have everyone coming back for more. Embrace the spirit of Thai grilling culture with this dish that celebrates bold flavors and the joy of sharing good food with good company. Enjoy every bite of these flavorful skewers and savor the magic of homemade Thai cuisine.