These Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are packed with flavor! Chicken pieces marinated in a tasty blend of soy sauce, lime, and spices make these skewers a hit for any barbecue.
It’s hard not to enjoy grilling these up! I love serving them with a side of peanut sauce for dipping—trust me, it’s a game changer! Who knew dinner could be this simple and delicious?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts. If you’re looking for a lighter option, chicken breast works well too. For a vegetarian twist, substitute chicken with firm tofu or seitan.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds a rich savory flavor. If you’re gluten-free, opt for tamari. You can also experiment with coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter taste.
Fish Sauce: This adds a distinct umami flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using extra soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative made from seaweed or mushrooms.
Brown Sugar: I like using palm sugar for a nice, caramel-like sweetness that pairs well with the other flavors. You can also use coconut sugar or regular brown sugar if you have those on hand.
Chili Paste/Sriracha: If you’re not a fan of heat, feel free to leave this out. For a milder flavor, you could use sweet chili sauce instead!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy on the Grill?
The key to juicy chicken is marinating it properly. Spending at least 2-4 hours in the marinade allows the chicken to absorb all those yummy flavors and helps to keep it moist during grilling.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the skewers. This helps create a good sear on the outside.
- Do not overcrowd the skewers; leave a bit of space between each piece. This allows even cooking and better char.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
With these tips, your chicken skewers will be deliciously juicy every time!
Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or palm sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1-2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon chili paste or Sriracha (optional, for heat)
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if bamboo, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)
- Fresh lettuce leaves for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for prep and at least 1 hour to marinate the chicken. Grilling will take around 10-15 minutes. So, plan for a total of about 1 hour and 30 minutes, which includes the time to marinate.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by mixing together the soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, lime juice, oil, and chili paste (if using) in a medium bowl. Stir everything until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are combined nicely. This will be the flavorful marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces into the marinade and toss them around to make sure they’re all coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, a good 2-4 hours is even better for enhancing the flavors.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken gets that lovely grilled char!
4. Thread the Chicken Pieces:
After marinating, take the chicken out of the fridge. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your skewers, making sure not to overcrowd them. Packing them closely is fine, but leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Once your grill is ready, place the skewers on it. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, turning them once or twice. You want that fabulous char, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked!
6. Serve:
Once grilled, take the skewers off the grill and arrange them on a platter over a bed of fresh lettuce leaves. Serve with some delicious Thai peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce for a tantalizing taste. Enjoy your juicy grilled Thai chicken skewers with a fresh squeeze of lime or serve them alongside jasmine rice for a complete meal!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used; however, you may want to marinate them for a shorter time (about 1-2 hours) to prevent them from drying out. Just keep an eye on the grilling time, as they may cook a bit faster than thighs.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you’re looking to amp up the heat, add more chili paste or Sriracha to the marinade. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on the skewers before grilling or serve with a spicy dipping sauce on the side!
What Should I Serve with the Skewers?
These skewers pair beautifully with jasmine rice or coconut rice, and a side of fresh veggies or a Thai salad. They’re also delicious dipped in peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce for extra flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or on the grill for added crispiness. Enjoy them cold in a salad or wrap for a tasty lunch!
