These Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are super tasty! Marinated in a yummy mix of soy sauce, garlic, and spices, they’ll make your taste buds dance. Perfect for a summer BBQ!
Who doesn’t love food on a stick? These skewers are not just fun to eat but also quick to whip up. I usually serve mine with some rice—simple and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor, but if you prefer, chicken breasts work too. Just remember, they can dry out faster, so watch the cooking time!
Fish Sauce: Essential for authentic flavor! If you’re looking for a substitute, try soy sauce mixed with a bit of vinegar or a splash of Worcestershire sauce, though it may alter the taste slightly.
Brown Sugar: Palm sugar is traditional, but brown sugar is an easy swap. You could even use honey or maple syrup in a pinch, just reduce the amount slightly since they are sweeter.
Ginger: Freshly grated ginger gives a nice kick. If you don’t have any, ground ginger can work too, but use about half as much because it’s more concentrated.
Peanut Sauce: It’s not a must, but it adds a delicious dip! If you have nut allergies, consider serving with a sweet chili sauce instead.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked on the Skewers?
Cooking chicken skewers can sometimes be tricky, but here are some great tips for getting it right!
- Ensure your grill is preheated. A hot grill will give better sear marks and lock in the juices. Aim for medium-high heat.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Leave a little space between chicken pieces for even cooking and to make turning easier.
- Keep an eye on cooking time. Chicken thighs usually take about 4-5 minutes per side. You want them to be juicy but fully cooked.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness. Chicken should be 165°F (75°C) internally. This ensures they are safe to eat without overcooking.
How to Make Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or palm sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for the grill)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
- Fresh leafy lettuce, for serving
- Peanut sauce (for dipping – optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to marinate the chicken (or up to overnight for better flavor). Grilling will take about 10-15 minutes, making the total time around 25-30 minutes, plus marinating time. It’s a quick and delicious dish you’ll love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, ground coriander, ground cumin, and black pepper. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely. This mixture is going to add amazing flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and stir well so that all the pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors soak in. If you can, let it marinate for 3-4 hours or overnight for deeper flavor. Yum!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, lightly brush the grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. This makes flipping the skewers easier!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take your marinated chicken out of the fridge and thread the pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers or metal skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally. You’re looking for that beautiful char and for the chicken to be cooked through—about 165°F (75°C) internally.
6. Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Arrange fresh leafy lettuce on a serving platter and place the grilled skewers on top. Serve immediately with peanut sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick!
Enjoy your juicy and flavorful Thai chicken skewers—a perfect treat for your next gathering or dinner!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may dry out more quickly. Reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking them.
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the microwave or on a grill pan over low heat to retain their juiciness.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before adding the chicken. It’s a great time-saver for busy nights!
What if I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can cook these skewers in a grill pan on the stovetop or even bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
