There’s something truly irresistible about the smoky char of grilled chicken, especially when it’s been marinated in an aromatic Thai-inspired blend and served with a velvety peanut sauce. These Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are tender, flavorful, and perfect for everything from summer cookouts to weeknight dinners. With bold spices, a creamy coconut milk marinade, and that irresistible sweet-savory peanut dip, this dish will quickly become a staple on your menu.
Ideal for anyone who loves bold, Asian-inspired flavors but wants an easy-to-make recipe, these chicken skewers deliver restaurant-quality results without the fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just learning the ropes, this dish is both approachable and impressive.
Why You’ll Love These Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
- Full of Flavor – A bold marinade packed with coconut milk, lime juice, curry, and garlic infuses the chicken with rich Thai-inspired taste.
- Simple Ingredients – Made with everyday pantry staples and a few specialty items, this recipe is both accessible and exciting.
- Perfect for Grilling Season – Fire up the grill or use a stovetop grill pan—either way, you’re in for a treat.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Marinate the chicken ahead of time and grill when ready.
- Family Approved – A kid-friendly way to introduce exciting global flavors with the optional heat of sriracha in the sauce.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
For the Creamy Peanut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/3 cup warm water (adjust for desired consistency)
- Dash of sriracha (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Grill or stovetop grill pan
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Skewers (preferably wooden, soaked in water)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic, ginger, curry powder, and turmeric. Add your chicken pieces and toss to coat well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Tip: Use a resealable plastic bag for marinating to ensure the chicken is evenly coated and save on clean-up.
2. Prepare the Skewers
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Then, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
3. Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred on the edges.
Shortcut: Use a meat thermometer—chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Make the Peanut Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and a splash of warm water. Adjust the water amount to achieve your preferred consistency. Add a dash of sriracha for some heat, if desired.
Pro Tip: Make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate—it thickens as it chills but can easily be loosened with a splash of warm water before serving.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the skewers hot off the grill, paired with the creamy peanut sauce for dipping. Garnish with lime wedges, chopped peanuts, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if desired.
Suggested Sides and Pairings
These skewers are incredibly versatile and pair well with a range of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Coconut Rice or Jasmine Rice – Soaks up the extra peanut sauce beautifully.
- Grilled Vegetables – Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions complement the skewers perfectly.
- Cucumber Salad – Offers a cool, crunchy contrast to the warm, spiced chicken.
- Cold Thai Iced Tea or Lemongrass Sparkling Water – A refreshing drink that enhances the Thai flavors.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Gently: Rewarm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water to the peanut sauce if it thickens too much in the fridge.
- Freeze It: You can freeze the marinated raw chicken (without the sauce) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling.
Recipe Variations and Swaps
- Use Chicken Breasts or Tofu: Swap chicken thighs for breasts for a leaner option or try tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Make it Spicy: Add chili flakes to the marinade or use a spicier curry powder.
- Low-Sodium: Choose low-sodium soy sauce and peanut butter to reduce overall saltiness.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nut-free sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?
Absolutely. Metal skewers don’t require soaking and are reusable—just be cautious, as they get hot during grilling.
Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Is the peanut sauce spicy?
Not by default. It’s mild unless you add sriracha or chili flakes, making it perfect for all spice preferences.
What can I use instead of fish sauce?
Soy sauce alone works in a pinch, though it won’t have the same depth of flavor. A bit of miso paste or anchovy paste can also be a suitable substitute.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 1 hour is recommended, but overnight is ideal for the most flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers with Creamy Peanut Sauce strike the perfect balance between ease and elegance. The marinade delivers deep, aromatic Thai flavor, while the peanut sauce brings that signature richness that keeps people coming back for more. This dish is as great for entertaining as it is for a casual weeknight meal, and you can easily scale it up or down depending on the crowd.
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