Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe

If you’re searching for a showstopper that brings the aromatic allure of Thai street food right to your backyard, look no further than these Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers. Juicy chicken marinated with warm ginger, garlic, savory soy sauces, and richly sweet coconut cream, then char-grilled to perfection and finished with a glossy, irresistible coconut glaze—this is a dish that truly delivers on both flavor and fun. Whether you’re a seasoned grill fanatic or simply craving a burst of sunny Southeast Asian flavors, these skewers are guaranteed to make dinnertime feel like a celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how such a simple lineup of ingredients can create a dish so vibrant and complex. Each element in these Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers plays a starring role—don’t skip a thing!

• Chicken (1 kg, dark meat preferable): Thighs or drumsticks offer tenderness and juiciness that’s hard to beat on the grill.
• Ginger (4-5 slices, about 2 tbsp): Adds a fresh, warming bite that wakes up the marinade.
• Garlic (2 cloves, about 1½ tbsp): Essential for a rich, savory undertone—chop as fine as you can for even flavor.
• Soy Sauce (2 tbsp): Gives a burst of umami saltiness; use your go-to brand.
• Dark Soy Sauce (1 tbsp): Lends a deeper caramel color and slightly richer flavor compared to regular soy sauce.
• Coconut Cream (2 tbsp for marinade, 6 tbsp for peanut sauce, 2 tbsp for glaze): Delivers creaminess and that signature tropical sweetness.
• Sugar (2 tbsp): Balances out the savory and accentuates the natural sweetness of coconut.
• Oyster Sauce (1 tbsp): Brings a little extra body and all-around savoriness.
• Honey (1½ tbsp + 1½ tbsp for glaze): Introduces a gentle floral sweetness perfect for caramelization.
• Soy Sauce (1 tsp for glaze): Binds the glaze flavors with a touch more salt.
• Natural Peanut Butter (¼ cup, unsweetened): The base for an addictive satay-style dipping sauce.
• Rice Vinegar (1 tsp): Offers brightness that perks up the peanut sauce.
• Thai Red Curry Paste (1 tsp): Packs in authentic Thai flavor and a gentle heat kick.
• Maple Syrup (2 tsp): Lends subtle complexity and a glossy finish to the sauce.
• Soy Sauce (2 tsp for peanut sauce): Layers in additional salt and umami.
• Water (2–3 tbsp): Thins out the peanut sauce to your perfect dip-able consistency.
• Sesame Oil (1 tsp, optional): Gives a rounding nuttiness to the sauce.
• Chili Oil (1 tsp, optional): Swirls in excitement for spice lovers.
• Crushed Peanuts (for garnish, optional): Sprinkling these gives crunch and visual flair to your skewers.
• Green Lettuce (to serve): Not just for looks—use it to wrap chicken bites for extra freshness.
• Wooden Skewers: Essential for threading and grilling—soak to keep them from burning.

How to Make Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Make the Quick Peanut Sauce (Optional, but Highly Recommended!)

Start by whisking together all the peanut sauce ingredients—peanut butter, coconut cream, rice vinegar, Thai red curry paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, water, and that drizzle of sesame and chili oil if you’re feeling bold. The result is a rich, nutty, and just-spicy-enough sauce that’s perfect for dipping these skewers or even drizzling on salads and noodles. Set aside; the longer it sits, the better it gets.

Step 2: Prep and Marinate the Chicken

Cut your chicken into generous 1-inch chunks. Next, chop the fresh ginger and garlic super fine; no big bites allowed! Toss everything into a bowl with the chicken—add the soy sauces, coconut cream, sugar, and oyster sauce for that signature Thai flavor base. Mix well, cover, and tuck it into the fridge to marinate for a good 1–2 hours. Even better? Let it soak up the flavors overnight. You’ll really notice the difference.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

If you’re using wooden skewers, pop the blunt ends into water to soak while the chicken marinates. This prevents any tragic torching on the grill. When you’re ready, carefully thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, packing the pieces snugly to avoid loose bits that could burn. Just remember not to run your fingers down the skewer, unless you enjoy spicy splinters!

Step 4: Mix Up the Coconut Cream Glaze

In a small bowl, combine more coconut cream, a swoosh of honey, and a dash of soy sauce. This luscious glaze will transform your Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers from tasty to completely irresistible, with a glossy, caramelized finish after grilling.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to a fiery 500°F (260°C)—you want the heat high to get that lovely char. Grill the skewers over direct heat, flipping every 2–3 minutes for a total of 15–18 minutes. Once the chicken is golden and gorgeous, brush on the coconut glaze and flip a few more times, letting it caramelize right onto each bite.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Arrange your Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers on a bed of crisp green lettuce and scatter with crushed peanuts if you like extra texture. Set that dreamy peanut sauce on the side for dipping—or do what I do and dunk every bite.

How to Serve Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers

Garnishes

A generous shower of crushed peanuts and a handful of fresh cilantro or sliced green onion always looks (and tastes) fantastic. Don’t forget the crisp lettuce leaves; they’re perfect for wrapping up chicken bites with a little drizzle of sauce, making every mouthful feel like a mini lettuce wrap.

Side Dishes

Pair your skewers with simple jasmine rice or cool rice noodles to round out the meal. Add a quick cucumber salad or pickled veggies for a refreshing, crunchy contrast that balances the warmth of the grilled meat. Everything comes together with very little fuss, so you can focus on enjoying time at the table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a showy platter, layer the Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers over a mountain of lettuce and sprinkle with chopped red chili and peanuts. Serve individual lettuce wraps as party bites, or even place each skewer over a bowl of ginger-scented rice with a drizzle of the peanut sauce. These skewers look fantastic nestled on a wood board, picnic-style, at your next BBQ get-together!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pop any leftover Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Keep the peanut sauce in a separate small jar, and store any extra garnishes in another covered container to keep them fresh and ready for reuse.

Freezing

The skewers freeze quite well! Simply freeze the grilled chicken skewers (without the lettuce or sauce) in a zip-top bag for up to two months. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge or defrost gently in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy again.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers either in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or on a hot grill for a few minutes on each side—just until warmed through and slightly sizzling. Microwave works too, but use short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of dark meat?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works well if you prefer leaner meat. Just be careful not to overcook it, as it tends to dry out faster than thighs. Either way, the coconut marinade keeps things juicy and flavorful.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No worries at all! You can cook the Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers under a hot broiler or on a stovetop grill pan. Just watch closely and flip often to get that classic char and caramelization.

Is the peanut sauce spicy?

The heat is very manageable and comes mainly from Thai red curry paste. Want it extra mild? Just use a little less paste, or add more if you love things fiery!

Can I make the marinade in advance?

Definitely! Mix together the marinade up to two days ahead and keep it refrigerated. That way, tossing together dinner is a breeze—just add the chicken, and you’re set!

How do I keep the skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before threading the chicken. If you can, use the blunt end, and grill over direct but controlled heat, flipping every couple of minutes for even cooking and minimal burning.

Final Thoughts

These Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers are truly a flavor-packed adventure, perfect for impressing friends, jazzing up a weeknight dinner, or adding sizzle to any backyard party. Gather your favorite people, fire up the grill, and get ready to fall in love with every bite!

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