Name: Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-486299H22M15S
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: Chicken breasts or thighs; Coconut milk; Lemongrass; Garlic cloves; Fresh ginger; Soy sauce; Lime juice; Brown sugar; Cilantro; Red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper; Wooden or metal skewers

These Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers are tender, flavorful, and packed with the aromatic spices of Thailand. Marinated in a creamy coconut sauce infused with lemongrass, garlic, and ginger, they are grilled to perfection for a delicious, smoky finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore these skewers because they’re incredibly easy to prepare, yet they deliver bold, complex flavors. The creamy coconut marinade ensures the chicken remains juicy and flavorful, while grilling adds a delightful char and smokiness. Perfect for backyard barbecues, weeknight dinners, or entertaining, these skewers are versatile and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breasts or thighs
Coconut milk
Lemongrass
Garlic cloves
Fresh ginger
Soy sauce
Lime juice
Brown sugar
Cilantro
Red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper
Wooden or metal skewers

Directions

Begin by soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
In a large bowl, mix coconut milk, finely chopped lemongrass, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, chopped cilantro, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight for deeper flavor.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers.
Grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and slightly charred.
Remove from heat and let rest briefly before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes (excluding marinating)

Variations

Protein Swap: Try pork, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken.
Veggie Additions: Add vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or onions for a more substantial skewer.
Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to make the skewers milder or spicier.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, quickly reheat on a hot grill or pan to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?

Yes, coconut cream will give a richer and creamier texture to the marinade.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to 8 hours.

Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?

Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through cooking.

What can I serve with these chicken skewers?

I like pairing these skewers with jasmine rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers?

Yes, soaking prevents the skewers from burning or catching fire on the grill.

Conclusion

These Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers are my go-to recipe for delicious, easy-to-prepare grilling. The flavorful marinade and smoky grill taste make this dish a consistent crowd-pleaser. Try this recipe at your next cookout for a delightful taste of Thailand!

Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers