Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers

Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers are packed with bold flavors and a rich, creamy coconut marinade that infuses every bite with Thai-inspired goodness. These skewers are perfect for grilling season and make a fantastic appetizer or main dish. The combination of coconut milk, Thai red curry paste, and peanut sauce creates an irresistible balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Thai flavors – A delicious mix of coconut, curry, and peanut sauce.
• Easy to prepare – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Perfect for grilling – Great for BBQs, gatherings, or a weeknight dinner.
• Naturally gluten-free – A great option for those avoiding gluten.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Marinade:

• Chicken – 1 kg (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves
• Ginger (sliced) – 4 slices
• Coconut milk – 10 tablespoons
• Thai red curry paste – 1 teaspoon
• Honey – 1 ½ tablespoons
• Maple syrup – 2 teaspoons
• Oyster sauce – 1 tablespoon
• Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons
• Dark soy sauce – 1 tablespoon
• Chili oil – 1 teaspoon
• Sugar – 2 tablespoons
• Rice vinegar – 1 teaspoon
• Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon

For the Peanut Sauce:

• Peanut butter (natural, unsweetened) – ¼ cup
• Water – 2 tablespoons
• Peanuts – for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade

1. In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, Thai red curry paste, garlic, ginger, honey, maple syrup, oyster sauce, soy sauces, chili oil, sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).

2. Prepare the Peanut Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix peanut butter with water until smooth. If needed, warm it slightly to help with mixing.
2. Set aside for serving.

3. Assemble the Skewers

1. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

4. Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
2. Grill the skewers for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
3. Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes.

5. Serve

1. Drizzle with peanut sauce and sprinkle with chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
2. Serve with steamed rice, fresh herbs, or a side of Thai cucumber salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 skewers
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add extra chili oil or red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Lemongrass Twist: Add finely minced lemongrass to the marinade for a fresh citrusy kick.
• Vegan Alternative: Replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based version.
• Oven-Baked Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze marinated raw chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.
• Reheating: Reheat grilled skewers in a skillet over medium heat or in a microwave for 30-40 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes! Chicken thighs stay juicier and are a great alternative.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, marinate for 4 hours or overnight.

What should I serve with these skewers?

They pair well with jasmine rice, Thai salad, or grilled vegetables.

Can I make these skewers without a grill?

Yes! You can cook them on a stovetop grill pan or bake them in the oven.

Can I use store-bought peanut sauce?

Yes, but homemade peanut sauce gives the best flavor and freshness.

How do I keep the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grill grates lightly before cooking and avoid flipping too soon.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the chicken and keep it in the fridge until ready to grill.

How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

Can I use canned coconut milk?

Yes! Use full-fat canned coconut milk for the richest flavor.

What other proteins can I use?

Shrimp, beef, or pork work well with this marinade too.

Conclusion

Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers are a fantastic mix of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors with a delicious coconut and peanut twist. Whether you grill them for a summer BBQ or prepare them indoors, these skewers are sure to impress. Serve with rice, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of peanut sauce for a restaurant-quality dish at home!

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• Author: asma
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 skewers 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers are packed with bold Thai flavors, featuring a rich marinade of coconut milk, Thai red curry paste, and honey. Grilled to perfection, these juicy and aromatic skewers are served with a creamy peanut sauce, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser. This gluten-free dish is perfect for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or meal prep!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 kg chicken (boneless, cut into cubes)
• 10 tablespoons coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 slices ginger, minced
• 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon chili oil
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

For the Peanut Sauce:

• 1/4 cup natural unsweetened peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish:

• Crushed peanuts
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, Thai red curry paste, garlic, ginger, honey, maple syrup, oyster sauce, soy sauces, sesame oil, chili oil, and rice vinegar.
2. Add the chicken pieces, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

2. Make the Peanut Sauce:

3. In a small bowl, mix peanut butter, sugar, and water until smooth. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Skewers & Grill:

4. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
5. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
6. Grill the skewers for 3–4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char.

4. Serve & Garnish:

7. Drizzle with peanut sauce and garnish with crushed peanuts and fresh cilantro.
8. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

• For extra tenderness, marinate the chicken overnight.
• Substitute almond butter for peanut butter if needed.
• These skewers pair well with steamed jasmine rice or Thai cucumber salad.
• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course, Grilled
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Thai