If you are craving a mouthwatering dish that’s bursting with exotic flavors and a hint of tropical sweetness, the Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe is going to be your new go-to favorite. This dish masterfully blends tender chicken marinated in creamy coconut milk, fragrant red curry, zesty lime, and aromatic ginger and garlic, then grilled to perfection. The result? Juicy, smoky skewers that deliver a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and slightly tangy, making every bite an absolute delight that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping this recipe simple with straightforward ingredients is what makes it so accessible and delicious. Each component plays a key role, from the creamy coconut milk enriching the chicken to the bright lime juice adding a fresh zing.
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for leaner meat, cut into 1-inch pieces for even grilling.
- 1 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat): Provides luscious creaminess and subtle sweetness that defines the dish.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or fish sauce: Adds savory umami depth, while fish sauce gives a traditional Thai flavor.
- 1 tbsp brown sugar: Balances the savory and acidic ingredients with a gentle caramelized sweetness.
- 1 tbsp lime juice: Brings a bright, citrusy contrast that wakes up the palate.
- 1 tbsp red curry paste: Brings the signature Thai spice and vibrant color, plus aromatic complexity.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the marinade with pungent warmth and depth.
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated: Adds lively spiciness and freshness.
- 1 tbsp vegetable or coconut oil (for grill): Keeps the skewers from sticking and helps develop those perfect grill marks.
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving: Provide fresh herbal brightness and extra zing just before indulging.
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes): Essential for easy handling on the grill and preventing burning.
How to Make Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the coconut milk, soy or fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, red curry paste, garlic, and ginger in a large bowl or zip-top bag. This vibrant blend of flavors is the secret to infusing the chicken with that irresistible Thai-inspired taste.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add your cut chicken pieces into the marinade, tossing them thoroughly to coat each piece evenly. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but for the most intense flavor and tender texture, aim for 4 hours or even overnight. This slow soaking time allows the chicken to absorb all those wonderful spices and coconut cream.
Step 3: Preheat and Oil the Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to get it nice and hot. Before placing the skewers down, brush the grates lightly with vegetable or coconut oil. This step will help prevent any sticking and allow you to get perfect, appealing grill marks.
Step 4: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers
Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers. Not only does this make cooking easier, but it also ensures even grilling on all sides, sealing in the juices.
Step 5: Grill Until Perfect
Place the skewers on the prepared grill, cooking them for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. You’re looking for a beautiful char and for the chicken to be fully cooked through but still juicy and tender. The aroma at this point is going to be absolutely irresistible!
How to Serve Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh cilantro and lime wedges just before serving brings an extra burst of brightness and freshness that perfectly complements the richness of the grilled chicken. These simple touches elevate the dish, making it look and taste restaurant-quality in your own home.
Side Dishes
Serve these skewers alongside fragrant jasmine rice to soak up all those delicious flavors. For a cooling effect, a crisp cucumber salad or a smooth peanut sauce works beautifully. These sides balance the spices, adding texture and contrast that make every bite sustainably satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the skewers on a platter with tropical fruits like mango slices or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for added texture. Wrapping the chicken in butter lettuce leaves to create mini wraps is another festive and interactive way to enjoy this dish with family or friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the skewers intact helps retain moisture, but if you prefer, you can remove the chicken from the skewers before storing.
Freezing
You can freeze the marinated raw chicken pieces before grilling by placing them in a sealed freezer bag for up to 1 month. After thawing, grill as usual. Cooked skewers can also be frozen, but the texture is best preserved when fresh.
Reheating
To reheat grilled chicken skewers, use a grill pan or oven to warm them gently. This approach helps maintain the smoky flavor and juicy texture rather than drying out the chicken in a microwave.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work perfectly for this recipe. Just be careful not to overcook them as they are leaner and can dry out faster than thighs.
Is it possible to make this recipe without a grill?
Yes! You can use a grill pan or even broil the skewers in your oven. Just watch closely to get good browning without burning.
Can I make the marinade spicier?
Definitely! Adding a teaspoon or two of sriracha or extra red curry paste will give your skewers a delightful kick.
How long should I soak wooden skewers?
Soaking wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes prevents them from catching fire during grilling and helps hold the chicken securely.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you choose gluten-free soy sauce or fish sauce, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing a meal that hits all the right flavor notes, and the Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe does exactly that. Its perfect balance of creamy, savory, and tangy elements paired with the irresistible aroma of grilled chicken makes it a standout dish to bring to any meal or gathering. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try — it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!
Print
Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Thailand with these Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers. Tender chicken pieces marinated in a rich coconut milk and red curry paste mixture are grilled to perfection, creating a juicy and aromatic dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or fish sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp red curry paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
For Grilling
- 1 tbsp vegetable or coconut oil (for grill)
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
To Serve
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce (or fish sauce), brown sugar, lime juice, red curry paste, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat each piece. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours or overnight to infuse maximum flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates with vegetable or coconut oil to prevent sticking and enhance grilling marks.
- Thread Chicken onto Skewers: Remove chicken from the marinade and thread evenly onto the soaked wooden skewers, making sure not to overcrowd.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until the chicken is fully cooked through and has beautiful charred grill marks.
- Serve: Serve the grilled chicken skewers hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an added burst of freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Serve with jasmine rice, peanut sauce, or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal.
- For extra heat, add sriracha or more red curry paste to the marinade.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- If using soy or fish sauce, opt for gluten-free versions to keep the dish gluten-free.
