These Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are packed with bold flavors! Marinated in a tasty mix of Thai spices and grilled to perfection, they’re juicy and delicious.
They make a fun dish for gatherings or a simple dinner. I love serving them with a side of rice or fresh veggies. Trust me, they won’t last long on the plate! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I usually opt for boneless skinless chicken thighs due to their tenderness and flavor. However, you can use chicken breast if you prefer a leaner option, but be cautious not to overcook them.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is essential for adding depth. If you’re avoiding gluten, try tamari or coconut aminos as a great substitute.
Fish Sauce: It gives a unique umami flavor. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, a bit of extra soy sauce or a splash of vegetable broth can be used instead.
Brown or Palm Sugar: Both sugars work well for sweetness. If you can’t find palm sugar, light brown sugar or coconut sugar can be a good alternative.
Red Curry Paste: This adds a kick! For less spice, simply reduce the amount or skip it altogether. You could also use a milder curry paste.
How Do I Properly Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is a key step to ensure your chicken is flavorful! Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Make sure you combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl before adding the chicken to ensure even coating.
- Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly and let them sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, allow it to marinate for 3-4 hours.
- Don’t skip soaking the skewers for 30 minutes beforehand. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
What’s the Trick to Perfect Grilling?
Grilling can seem tricky, but it’s all about the heat and timing:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to ensure a nice sear.
- Place the skewers on the grill and avoid overcrowding. This helps them cook evenly and get that lovely char.
- Flip them about 4-5 minutes on each side, but watch closely; cooking times can vary depending on the heat.
Enjoy these tasty skewers with your choice of sides!
Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or palm sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste (optional for spiciness)
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- Fresh lettuce leaves, for serving
For the Optional Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- Lime juice to taste
- Chili oil for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (3-4 hours for the best flavor). You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes grilling, making it a perfect option for a quick and flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red curry paste if you’re adding spice. Mix until everything is well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure all pieces are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour; for more flavor, let it sit for 3-4 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Before grilling, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and develops a nice char.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge and thread the pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers. Leave a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
5. Grill the Chicken Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and shows beautiful grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
6. Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
While the chicken cooks, you can make the optional dipping sauce. In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, red curry paste, sugar, fish sauce, and lime juice. Drizzle with chili oil for an extra kick!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken skewers are cooked, serve them hot on a platter lined with fresh lettuce leaves. Don’t forget to add the dipping sauce on the side for a tasty complement!
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers! They’re perfect for dinner, parties, or just satisfying a craving!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, chicken breasts work fine too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they can dry out if overcooked. Aim for 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the size of the pieces.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
I recommend marinating for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, let it sit for 3-4 hours. If you’re in a hurry, even 30 minutes will still add some taste!
Can I Make These Skewers in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the skewers in advance! Assemble them and store them in the fridge for up to a day before grilling. Just make sure to keep them covered to prevent drying out.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, grill them briefly to warm through, or microwave them for a quick option. Enjoy them cold in salads for a refreshing meal!
