These Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are packed with flavor! The chicken is marinated in a tasty mix of spices and coconut milk, making it super juicy and delicious.
Get ready for a fun grilling session! They’re perfect for barbecues or weeknight dinners. I love serving them with a side of rice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you prefer white meat, chicken breasts work too, but they may dry out faster when grilling.
Soy Sauce: This adds a salty and savory depth to the dish. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute.
Fish Sauce: It provides umami. If you’re vegetarian, try using soy sauce for additional depth or a vegan fish sauce if available.
Brown Sugar: For sweetness, brown sugar is the best choice. You can substitute it with honey or coconut sugar if you like a more complex flavor.
Ginger: Fresh ginger gives off a wonderful warmth and spice. If you don’t have fresh ginger, use 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger as a substitute.
How Do I Grill Chicken Skewers Without Drying Them Out?
The key to keeping chicken skewers juicy is in the marinating step. Letting the chicken soak in the marinade for a few hours (or overnight) allows flavors to penetrate and keeps the meat tender.
- After marinating, shake off excess liquid for better browning on the grill.
- Grill on medium-high heat, avoiding too much direct heat, which can dry them out.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
Resting the skewers for a few minutes after grilling helps retain moisture. Enjoy your grilling!
Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Fresh lettuce leaves (for serving)
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 1 hour for marinating the chicken (or longer if you wish), plus an additional 20 minutes for preparation and grilling. All together, you should set aside around 1.5 hours to enjoy your delicious Thai chicken skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, honey, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves and the marinade is well blended. You’ll love the aroma!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, let them marinate for 3-4 hours or even overnight if you can wait!
3. Prepare for Grilling:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. While it heats, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers. Pack the chicken snugly but not overcrowded—this helps them cook evenly!
4. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side. Turn them occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful, charred edges. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once grilled, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve your tasty Thai chicken skewers on a platter lined with fresh lettuce leaves. For an extra treat, don’t forget to pair them with a spicy peanut dipping sauce or a chili sauce!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers! They’re sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer! Just keep in mind that they may dry out faster, so be sure not to overcook them. Marinate for the same amount of time to keep them flavorful.
What Can I Substitute for Fish Sauce?
If you’re looking for a substitute for fish sauce, soy sauce is a great alternative. For a more complex flavor, you can try a vegan fish sauce or a mixture of soy sauce with a splash of lime juice.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for a minimum of 1 hour, but for maximum flavor, marinating it for 3-4 hours or overnight is best. Just remember to store it in the fridge to keep it safe!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or gently on a grill for a few minutes until heated through.
