If you love vibrant flavors and irresistible grilled dishes, you are going to adore this Thai Grilled Chicken Skewers with Coconut Peanut Sauce Recipe. Juicy pieces of marinated chicken grilled to perfection are paired with a luscious, creamy sauce that combines the richness of coconut milk and the boldness of peanut butter. Each bite bursts with the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes, making it an unforgettable dish that’s ideal for gatherings or a special weeknight dinner. I’m excited to share this recipe with you because it’s a true celebration of Thai-inspired flavors that feels both exotic and comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first joyful step in creating this Thai Grilled Chicken Skewers with Coconut Peanut Sauce Recipe. Each element, from spices to sauces, plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture while keeping things simple and approachable.
- Soy sauce: Provides a salty, umami depth that seasons the chicken beautifully.
- Dark brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps balance the spices perfectly.
- Lime zest and fresh lime juice: Bring a fresh citrus brightness that lifts the entire dish.
- Vegetable oil: Ensures the marinade coats the chicken evenly and keeps it tender.
- Garlic cloves: Infuse a savory aroma that’s classic in Thai cooking.
- Curry powder: Introduces warm, complex spice notes that marry well with the peanut sauce.
- Ground ginger and cardamom: These subtle spices offer a fragrant kick and delicate warmth.
- Salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, tender and easy to grill into juicy skewers.
- Coconut milk (full-fat): Creates a creamy base that enriches the peanut sauce.
- Peanut butter: Gives the sauce a rich, nutty backbone that’s absolutely addictive.
- Red curry paste: Packs a slightly spicy, savory punch to complement the sweetness.
How to Make Thai Grilled Chicken Skewers with Coconut Peanut Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by pounding the chicken breasts so they have an even thickness of about half an inch. This ensures they cook uniformly and remain juicy. Then cut them into 1½-inch pieces — the perfect size for skewers that grill quickly and evenly.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Whisk together soy sauce, dark brown sugar, lime zest, vegetable oil, minced garlic, curry powder, ground ginger, cardamom, and salt in a large bowl. Toss the chicken pieces in this fragrant marinade until every piece is coated well. Cover and chill for at least four hours or, better yet, overnight. This marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but infuses it with layers of fantastic Thai-inspired flavor.
Step 3: Make the Peanut Sauce
While the chicken marinates, it’s time to create that irresistible coconut peanut sauce. In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, peanut butter, dark brown sugar, soy sauce, and red curry paste. Heat gently to simmer, stirring often until the sauce thickens slightly, about three minutes. Finally, stir in fresh lime juice to add brightness and balance the richness. Keep this sauce warm or at room temperature ready to serve alongside the skewers.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, making sure they’re not too crowded so they cook evenly. Preheat the grill and brush it lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Grill each skewer for about 10 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through with gorgeous grill marks. The aroma at this stage is pure bliss — smoky, spicy, and just begging to be eaten.
How to Serve Thai Grilled Chicken Skewers with Coconut Peanut Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and add fresh pops of flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or Thai basil over the skewers right before serving. A few lime wedges on the side add visual appeal and allow each guest to add an extra citrus zing if they please. Toasted peanuts or crushed chili flakes make delightful finishing touches that add crunch and a little spice kick.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple jasmine rice or fragrant coconut rice, which soak up the delicious peanut sauce perfectly. For a refreshing contrast, serve with a crisp cucumber salad tossed with rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar. You can also add steamed or grilled vegetables like snap peas, bell peppers, or bok choy for some vibrant colors and healthy crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Think of these skewers as the star players of an interactive meal: serve them family-style on a large platter layered with banana leaves or parchment paper for a tropical touch. Alternatively, use the skewers as a fun appetizer by offering individual dipping bowls filled with the coconut peanut sauce. For a casual lunch, turn the grilled chicken and sauce into wraps with lettuce leaves or flatbread for a delicious handheld treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover chicken skewers and peanut sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay fresh for up to three days and the sauce should also be good for about the same time when well covered.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, the cooked chicken skewers freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to two months. The peanut sauce can be frozen too, but it may separate slightly upon thawing — just whisk it back together gently.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. The sauce can be reheated in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth and creamy. Avoid microwaving as that might cause uneven heating and texture changes.
FAQs
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This marinade and peanut sauce work wonderfully with pork, shrimp, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked perfectly.
Is there a substitute for peanut butter if I have allergies?
Yes, you can try sunflower seed butter or tahini as alternatives, though the flavor profile will change slightly. If allergies are severe, simply serve the grilled chicken skewers without peanut sauce or try a coconut curry dipping sauce instead.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe has a mild to moderate spiciness because of the red curry paste. If you prefer more heat, add extra curry paste or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes during grilling. For less spice, reduce the amount of curry paste or omit it.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes! You can cook the skewers under a broiler or in a grill pan on your stovetop. Just keep a close eye to prevent burning and turn them often to get nice char marks and even cooking.
What’s the best way to serve the peanut sauce?
Serve the peanut sauce warm or at room temperature in a small bowl alongside the skewers. It’s perfect for dipping or drizzling generously over the chicken for each bite packed with creamy, nutty goodness.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Thai Grilled Chicken Skewers with Coconut Peanut Sauce Recipe, I’m confident it’ll become a favorite in your recipe rotation. It’s the kind of dish that’s exciting enough for guests yet simple enough for a weeknight, offering bold flavors with minimal fuss. So grab your skewers, fire up the grill, and delight in a meal that’s bursting with tropical charm and savory goodness. Happy cooking!
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Thai Grilled Chicken Skewers with Coconut Peanut Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai
Description
Delicious Thai Grilled Chicken Skewers marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, lime, and spices, served with a creamy coconut peanut sauce. Perfect for a vibrant and satisfying meal that brings authentic Thai flavors to your grill.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar, packed
- Zest of one lime
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Coconut Peanut Sauce
- 1 (13-oz) can coconut milk (do not use low fat)
- â…“ cup peanut butter
- ¼ cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 2 limes)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness between two pieces of wax or parchment paper to ensure even cooking. Then cut the breasts into 1½-inch pieces and set aside.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, dark brown sugar, lime zest, vegetable oil, minced garlic, curry powder, ground ginger, ground cardamom, and salt. Add the chicken pieces and toss until evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate to marinate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
- Make the Peanut Sauce: In a saucepan, whisk together the coconut milk, peanut butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, and red curry paste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat, stir in fresh lime juice, and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Grill the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Preheat a grill and grease the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the skewers for approximately 10 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. Serve the skewers hot with the prepared coconut peanut sauce and lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- For easier grilling, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
- Adjust the spice level of the peanut sauce by adding more or less red curry paste according to your preference.
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts for juicier, more flavorful results.
- The peanut sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice or fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal.
