Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that bring a taste of Thailand to your backyard or kitchen. These skewers are marinated in a fragrant mixture of coconut milk, ginger, and lime juice, creating tender and juicy chicken pieces that are perfect for grilling. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers are sure to impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 4-5 slices Fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 kg Chicken (dark meat preferred, thighs or drumsticks, boneless and cut into chunks)
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dark soy sauce
- 1 can (400 mL) Coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon Brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for at least 30 minutes)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ginger, garlic, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, coconut milk, brown sugar, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken. Add the chicken chunks to the bowl, turning to coat them well with the marinade. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours if you have time).
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each chunk for even cooking.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat. Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers. Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is nicely charred and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy. Remove from the grill, squeeze fresh lime juice over the skewers, and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Nutrition Info (per serving): Approx. 320 calories, 25g protein, 18g fat, 15g carbohydrates
How to Serve Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers
Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers can be served as a tasty appetizer or a main dish. Pair them with jasmine rice, a fresh cucumber salad, or a zesty dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro and additional lime wedges for a bright, aromatic finish.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or a selection of fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, marinating them the same way.
- Spicy Twist: Add some red chili flakes or Thai bird chilies into the marinade for an extra kick.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the marinade for a more aromatic flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thigh or drumstick?
A: Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs or drumsticks provide more moisture and flavor.
Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours. Avoid marinating for too long as the acid in the marinade can change the texture of the chicken.
Q: Can these skewers be cooked in the oven?
A: Yes, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake the skewers on a lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.