If you are craving a burst of vibrant, exotic flavors that dance on your taste buds, then the Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Recipe is your next must-make. This dish masterfully combines tender, juicy chicken marinated in fragrant Thai-inspired spices and creamy coconut flavors, then grilled to smoky perfection. Paired with a rich, nutty peanut sauce, these skewers make for an irresistible appetizer or main course that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. The balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy notes will have you coming back for seconds, and trust me, it’s easier to make than you might think!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to capturing that authentic Thai flavor and creamy texture in your Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Recipe. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the tender chicken dark meat that ensures juiciness, to the fresh ginger and garlic that bring zest and warmth to the marinade. The combination of coconut cream and coconut milk adds a luscious richness, while the soy sauces and honey create the perfect balance of sweet and umami.
- 1 kg chicken (dark meat preferably): Dark meat offers more flavor and stays juicier on the grill.
- 4-5 slices ginger (approx. 2 tablespoons): Fresh ginger imparts a fragrant, slightly spicy note that defines Thai cuisine.
- 2 cloves garlic (approx. 1½ tablespoons): Garlic adds depth and a subtle kick to the marinade.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings savory umami to the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce: Adds color and richness to the marinade.
- 2 tablespoons coconut cream: Creates a creamy, luscious base for the chicken marinade.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Balances the tangy and salty flavors with delicate sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Enhances umami complexity in the dish.
- 6 tablespoons coconut cream (for glaze): Used to make a glaze that keeps the chicken moist and adds extra flavor.
- 1 ½ tablespoons honey: Sweetens the glaze naturally.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (for glaze): Adds salty balance to the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons coconut cream (for peanut sauce): Creates richness for the dipping sauce.
- ¼ cup natural peanut butter (unsweetened): Provides that creamy, nutty base critical to peanut sauce.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: Gives brightness and sharpness to the dipping sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste: A little heat and authentic Thai flavor.
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup (or honey): Adds subtle sweetness to balance the spicy and salty notes.
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce (for peanut sauce): Deepens the savoriness of the sauce.
- 2-3 tablespoons water: Adjusts the peanut sauce to the perfect dippable consistency.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional): Adds a toasty, nutty aroma.
- 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional): For those who like an extra kick of spice.
- Crushed peanuts (optional): For sprinkling on top and adding crunch.
How to Make Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Peanut Sauce
This peanut sauce is the soul of this recipe. Simply mix coconut cream, natural peanut butter, rice vinegar, Thai red curry paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, water, and optional oils in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. This sauce can be made ahead and left to meld flavors while you work on the chicken—its lush, creamy texture and subtle heat perfectly complement the smoky grilled chicken skewers.
Step 2: Marinating and Skewering the Chicken
Cut the dark meat chicken into bite-sized 1×1 inch chunks for even cooking and easier eating. Finely chop fresh ginger and garlic to release their aromatic oils, then mix these into the marinade ingredients: soy sauce, dark soy sauce, coconut cream, sugar, and oyster sauce. Let the chicken soak in this flavorful bath for at least 1-2 hours or overnight if you have the time. Once ready, skewer the chicken tightly so it holds together beautifully on the grill.
Step 3: Making the Coconut Cream Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together coconut cream, honey, and soy sauce to create a luscious glaze. This glaze will keep the chicken moist, enhance the coconut flavor, and give a subtle shine to the finished skewers. It’s a small step that makes a huge flavor difference.
Step 4: Grilling the Skewers to Perfection
Preheat your grill to high heat, about 500°F (260°C), to get that perfect sear and caramelization. Place the chicken skewers directly over the heat and flip every 2-3 minutes to cook evenly and avoid burning. The entire grilling process takes about 15-18 minutes. While grilling, generously brush on the coconut cream glaze to keep the meat juicy and add layers of flavor. The smell alone is enough to make your mouth water.
How to Serve Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your skewers, sprinkle crushed peanuts over the top for a delightful crunch and added texture contrast. Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions are also fantastic to add bursts of herbal freshness that complement the richness of the peanut sauce and coconut glaze.
Side Dishes
These skewers shine brightest when paired with simple, fresh sides. Serve over crisp lettuce leaves or alongside a light cucumber salad to provide freshness that balances the rich flavors. Jasmine rice or sticky rice is another great accompaniment to soak up every drop of peanut sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun and interactive experience, serve the chicken skewers on a platter with small bowls of peanut sauce for dipping, along with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and bell peppers. You can also place the skewers on mini naan or pita breads for hand-held bites, drizzled with peanut sauce and garnished with fresh herbs. These little twists make for unforgettable party appetizers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the peanut sauce separate to maintain its fresh texture.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked, marinated skewers by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before grilling to ensure even cooking and to keep that wonderful texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place the cooked skewers on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until hot throughout. Avoid reheating over direct high heat to keep them from drying out. Serve warm with freshly prepared or leftover peanut sauce for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of dark meat?
Yes, chicken breast can be used for a leaner option, but dark meat is preferable as it stays juicier and more flavorful when grilled.
Is the peanut sauce spicy?
The peanut sauce has a mild heat from the Thai red curry paste and optional chili oil, but you can adjust the spiciness to your liking by adding more or less chili.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 1-2 hours to let the flavors penetrate. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative along with gluten-free oyster sauce to make the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can cook the skewers under a broiler or on a grill pan on your stove. Just keep an eye on them and turn regularly to mimic the even cooking of a grill.
Final Thoughts
The Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that brings warmth, happiness, and a little celebration to your table every time. It’s flavorful, fun to make, and endlessly versatile, perfect for all sorts of occasions from casual weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings. Give it a try, and you might just find a new favorite way to enjoy Thai-inspired flavors with your loved ones!
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Description
These Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers combine tender dark meat chicken marinated in a blend of ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and coconut cream, then grilled to perfection with a sweet and savory coconut cream glaze. Served with a quick and easy peanut sauce, they make a delicious and vibrant appetizer or main dish with authentic Thai flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 kg chicken dark meat, cut into 1×1 inch chunks
- 4–5 slices ginger (approx. 2 tablespoons), finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic (approx. 1½ tablespoons), finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons coconut cream
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
Coconut Cream Glaze
- 6 tablespoons coconut cream
- 1 ½ tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
Peanut Sauce (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons coconut cream
- ¼ cup natural peanut butter (unsweetened)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin as needed)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional)
- Crushed peanuts (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Peanut Sauce (Optional): In a small bowl, thoroughly combine coconut cream, natural peanut butter, rice vinegar, Thai red curry paste, maple syrup or honey, soy sauce, and water to achieve your desired thickness. Add sesame oil and chili oil if using, then set the sauce aside until the chicken skewers are ready to be served.
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1×1 inch chunks. Finely chop the garlic and ginger, then mix these with soy sauce, dark soy sauce, coconut cream, sugar, and oyster sauce to create the marinade. Coat the chicken pieces with this mixture and marinate for 1-2 hours, or preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken chunks tightly onto skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced for consistent cooking.
- Prepare Coconut Cream Glaze: In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut cream, honey, and soy sauce to create a sweet and savory glaze for basting during grilling.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to direct heat at approximately 500°F (260°C). Place the skewers over the grill and cook for 15-18 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes for even cooking. While grilling, generously brush the coconut cream glaze on the chicken to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Serve: Arrange the grilled chicken skewers over fresh lettuce leaves and drizzle or serve alongside the prepared peanut sauce. Optionally, sprinkle crushed peanuts on top for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
- The peanut sauce is optional but adds a rich, complementary flavor to the grilled chicken.
- Adjust spiciness by adding or omitting chili oil in the peanut sauce.
- For gluten-free version, ensure soy sauce and oyster sauce are gluten-free or substitute with tamari and gluten-free oyster sauce.
