If you have a soft spot for vibrant, bold flavors paired with juicy, tender chicken, then you are going to absolutely love this Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe. This dish brings together the rich creaminess of coconut milk, the tangy brightness of lime, and the aromatic spices of ginger, garlic, and coriander, making each bite a delightful celebration of Thai-inspired taste. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a quick weeknight dinner that feels special, these skewers deliver on flavor and simplicity in the most satisfying way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in creating those unforgettable bold flavors and juicy, tender texture. From the savory depth of fish sauce to the subtle sweetness of brown sugar, these ingredients come together harmoniously to bring your skewers to life.
- Chicken thighs (1 1/2 lbs): Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick grilling and tender bites.
- Canned coconut milk (1 cup, full fat): Adds creamy richness and a subtle tropical sweetness to the marinade.
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings umami and saltiness that balances the sweet and sour elements.
- Fish sauce (2 tablespoons): An essential Thai ingredient that offers a deep savory punch.
- Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Provides a mellow sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
- Lime juice (1 tablespoon): Adds a fresh zing that brightens the entire dish.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Contributes pungent aroma and flavor that complements the other spices.
- Fresh ginger (1 tablespoon, grated): Offers a warm, slightly spicy note essential to Thai cuisine.
- Ground coriander (1 teaspoon): Adds a citrusy and slightly nutty flavor to the marinade.
- Turmeric (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a beautiful golden hue plus mild earthy warmth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): A hint of heat to awaken your taste buds.
- Bamboo or metal skewers: Bamboo skewers should be soaked beforehand to prevent burning.
- Chopped cilantro and lime wedges: Fresh garnishes to finish and enhance each serving.
How to Make Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Chicken
Start by whisking together the coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic, ginger, coriander, turmeric, and optional red pepper flakes in a large bowl or zip-top bag. This marinade is where all the magic happens—the creamy coconut milk tenderizes the chicken while the tangy, salty, and sweet ingredients build layers of flavor. Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces in this mixture until well coated. Then, cover and refrigerate for at least two hours, or for best results, let it marinate overnight. This rest time ensures that every morsel is infused with deliciousness.
Step 2: Prep the Skewers and Grill
If you’re using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to keep them from burning on the grill. When ready, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat—it should be hot enough to give your chicken those beautiful char marks without drying it out. Thread the marinated chicken pieces carefully onto the skewers, packing them snugly but not too tight. This helps them cook evenly. Grill the skewers for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through and has that irresistible grilled char. The outside should be slightly caramelized while the inside remains juicy.
Step 3: Rest and Serve
Once grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from heat and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, keeping each bite tender and juicy. Just before serving, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and lime wedges for an extra pop of freshness that brightens the whole dish.
How to Serve Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
For that perfect finishing touch, sprinkle a generous amount of chopped cilantro over the skewers. The fresh herbal notes lift the richness of the coconut marinade beautifully. Don’t forget to serve with lime wedges on the side—squeezing fresh lime juice over the chicken just before eating adds a zesty lift that balances the creamy flavors.
Side Dishes
This Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fragrant jasmine rice or a crisp cucumber salad tossed with a tangy dressing. You can also offer a peanut dipping sauce on the side for a creamy, nutty complement that brings even more depth to your meal. These sides keep the flavor profile bright and balanced while providing variety on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
To wow your guests, arrange the skewers on a platter lined with banana leaves or fresh lettuce for an authentic Thai-inspired presentation. You could also serve the chicken over a bed of coconut rice, drizzling a little extra boiled marinade (made safe by boiling) as a sauce. For casual gatherings, skewers served with small bowls of dipping sauces invite everyone to customize their bites and keep the vibe interactive and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover chicken skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keep the garnishes separate to preserve their freshness and add them right before reheating or serving again.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked grilled chicken skewers by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw frozen skewers overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the skewers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out the chicken. If you like, add a quick brush of leftover marinade (boiled) during reheating to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but keep in mind they cook faster and can dry out more easily. Marinate them well and watch the grill closely to prevent overcooking.
Do I have to soak bamboo skewers before grilling?
Yes, soaking bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes is important to stop them from catching fire while grilling, ensuring a safer and more even cooking experience.
Is fish sauce necessary in this recipe?
Fish sauce is a key ingredient for authentic Thai flavor, adding salty, savory depth. If you cannot find it, you can substitute with extra soy sauce, but the taste will be less complex.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) instead of regular soy sauce to keep the recipe gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that you can adjust or omit based on your spice preference. Overall, this recipe is mild but full of vibrant flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe that makes it a standout in any meal rotation. It takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a flavorful, juicy, and aromatic feast that everyone will enjoy. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and create this delicious experience for yourself and your loved ones. Once you try it, I promise it will become a much-loved favorite.
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Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers feature tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a flavorful blend of coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce, and aromatic Thai spices. Perfectly charred on the grill and served with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, this dish offers a delicious balance of creamy coconut, tangy lime, and subtle heat that brings authentic Thai BBQ flavors to your table.
Ingredients
For the Marinade and Chicken
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup canned coconut milk (full fat)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Bamboo or metal skewers
For Serving
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl or a zip-top bag, whisk together the coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, ground coriander, turmeric, and crushed red pepper flakes. Ensure all ingredients are combined well to develop a balanced, aromatic marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken thigh pieces to the marinade and toss to coat them evenly. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken for maximum taste.
- Prepare the Skewers: If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to get a good sear on the chicken.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken evenly onto the skewers, ensuring the pieces are spaced for even cooking and char marks.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side. Grill until the chicken is fully cooked through and has developed nice charred spots, indicating caramelization and a smoky flavor.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes to retain their juices. Serve warm, garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges to add freshness and a zesty finish.
Notes
- These skewers pair excellently with jasmine rice, crisp cucumber salad, or a creamy peanut dipping sauce for a complete Thai-inspired meal.
- For an enhanced coconut flavor, brush the skewers with leftover marinade that has been boiled for safety during grilling.
- Soaking bamboo skewers prevents them from burning and helps maintain the integrity of the skewers while cooking.
