These Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are bursting with flavor! Marinated in a tasty blend of spices, they’re grilled to juicy perfection. The creamy peanut sauce is the cherry on top!
When I make these, I can’t resist a little extra peanut sauce for dipping. Who doesn’t love a little extra sauce? Get ready for some happy taste buds! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. You can swap them for chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option, but they may be less moist. Tofu or tempeh can work for a vegetarian version.
Soy Sauce: This is essential for flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari sauce instead. For a lower sodium choice, look for reduced-sodium soy sauce.
Fish Sauce: It adds a unique umami flavor. If you want to skip it, a splash of soy sauce with a bit of lime juice can work as an alternative for a similar taste.
Coconut Milk: This gives the peanut sauce a creamy texture. Almond or cashew milk can substitute, but the flavor will change. Full-fat coconut milk provides the richest taste, so it’s my go-to!
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter creates a smooth sauce. You could use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Marinate Chicken Effectively?
Marinating chicken is crucial for adding flavor and tenderness. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Combine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Whisk well for even distribution.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are covered. For best results, marinate in the fridge for 2 hours, but 30 minutes will work in a pinch.
- Remember to reserve a bit of marinade (not the part touching raw chicken) to brush on the skewers while grilling for added flavor.
This simple step makes a big difference in taste and moisture, so don’t skip it!
Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- Chopped peanuts
- Chopped green onions
- Grated carrots
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes of marinating time. If you have time, let the chicken marinate for 2 hours for even more flavor. Grilling takes around 15 minutes. So, in total, plan for about 1 hour to whip up these tasty skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk everything together until well mixed. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are all evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have time.
2. Prepare the Peanut Sauce:
While the chicken is marinating, let’s make the peanut sauce! In another bowl, mix together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, coconut milk, brown sugar, lime juice, and ginger (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and add a little salt if you like. Set the sauce aside for later.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. Grill the skewers for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for nice grill marks and make sure the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve the chicken skewers on a platter, drizzled with the delicious peanut sauce. Garnish with chopped peanuts, green onions, and grated carrots for a fresh crunch. Don’t forget to have some extra peanut sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty Thai chicken skewers!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time, as chicken breast may cook faster. Aim for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I Make the Peanut Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can! The peanut sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If it thickens, simply stir in a bit of water or coconut milk to loosen it before serving.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Skewers?
Leftover chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Serve with more peanut sauce for extra flavor!
What Should I Serve with Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers?
These skewers go great with a side of jasmine rice or a fresh salad. You could also serve them with steamed vegetables or a simple noodle salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget that extra peanut sauce for dipping!
