Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe

The Ultimate Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe for Summer

Thai coconut chicken skewers bring a burst of vibrant flavors that dance on your palate with exotic flair.

These tantalizing morsels carry the essence of southeast asian cuisine, blending sweet, spicy, and savory notes into one harmonious dish.

Marinated proteins absorb complex layers of aromatic herbs and zesty seasonings, changeing ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

Succulent meat becomes infused with rich, creamy coconut undertones that promise a delightful culinary experience.

Delicate spices whisper tales of traditional cooking techniques passed through generations of skilled home chefs.

Each skewer represents a miniature journey through thailand’s incredible gastronomic landscape, capturing the soul of street food culture.

The combination of ingredients creates a symphony of taste that celebrates freshness and bold complexity.

Tips That Enhance Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers

  • Prevent Skewer Burning: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading chicken to stop them from charring during grilling.
  • Maximize Flavor Infusion: Marinate chicken for the full 2 hours, turning occasionally to ensure every piece absorbs the rich Thai-inspired marinade thoroughly.
  • Control Grill Temperature: Use medium-high heat and watch carefully to achieve perfect caramelization without burning the delicate coconut glaze.
  • Rest Meat Wisely: Let grilled skewers rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to help juices redistribute, ensuring tender and succulent chicken.
  • Glaze Application Technique: Brush coconut glaze during the last 2-3 minutes of grilling to create a beautiful, golden-brown caramelized exterior without scorching.

Leftover Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Storage and Reheat Tips

  • Store skewers in an airtight container within the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap each skewer individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent flavor transfer. Reheat gently on a preheated grill or skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally to prevent drying. Brush with reserved coconut cream glaze to restore juiciness and enhance flavor during reheating. For best results, consume within 48 hours to preserve the chicken's tender texture and vibrant Thai-inspired taste.

Perfect Matches for Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers

  • Pair with Crisp Thai Beer: Grab a chilled Singha or Chang beer to complement the tropical marinade's richness and cut through the chicken's grilled intensity.
  • Serve with Fragrant Jasmine Rice: The subtle, floral rice perfectly balances the bold coconut and ginger flavors, soaking up the delicious glaze.
  • Create a Zesty Side Salad: Whip up a quick cucumber and mint salad with lime dressing to add refreshing contrast to the caramelized, smoky chicken skewers.
  • Match with Bright White Wine: A crisp New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc or German Riesling will enhance the dish's complex sweet and savory notes, providing a clean, bright counterpoint.

Alternative Ways to Enjoy Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers

  • Spicy Lime Coconut Chicken: Replace ginger with lime zest and add chili flakes to the marinade for a zesty, fiery kick.
  • Herb-Infused Tropical Skewers: Incorporate fresh cilantro, mint, and lemongrass into the marinade for an aromatic herb-packed version.
  • Pineapple Coconut Fusion: Add diced pineapple between chicken chunks and brush with a pineapple-coconut glaze for a sweet tropical transformation.
  • Vegetarian Tofu Alternative: Substitute chicken with firm tofu, using the same marinade and grilling technique for a plant-based option that maintains the original flavor profile.

Why You’ll Love Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers

  • Infuse Exotic Thai Flavors: Dive into a mouthwatering journey with bold ginger, garlic, and coconut cream that transport your taste buds straight to Southeast Asian street markets.
  • Quick and Easy Grilling Delight: Perfect for busy weeknights, these skewers cook in just 15-18 minutes, delivering restaurant-quality results with minimal kitchen effort.
  • Sensational Texture Combination: Experience a delightful contrast between the tender, juicy chicken and the caramelized glaze that creates a crispy, golden exterior with every bite.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Party Starter: Versatile dish that works brilliantly as a backyard barbecue hit, casual dinner option, or impressive appetizer for gatherings with friends and family.

Ingredients for Flavorful Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers

Protein:
  • Chicken: Tender white meat that serves as the main protein, preferring boneless and skinless chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
  • Oyster Sauce: Rich, savory condiment that adds depth and umami to the chicken marinade.
Marinade and Glaze Ingredients:
  • Coconut Cream: Thick, rich dairy-free base that provides creamy texture and tropical flavor.
  • Honey, Sugar: Natural sweeteners that help caramelize the chicken and balance savory flavors.
  • Soy Sauce: Salty, umami-rich condiment that enhances overall seasoning.
Aromatic Ingredients:
  • Ginger, Garlic: Classic Asian flavor boosters that add warm, pungent notes to the marinade.
  • Green Lettuce: Fresh, crisp accompaniment for serving.
  • Wooden Skewers: Essential for grilling and presenting the chicken in an organized manner.
Optional Sauce:
  • Peanut Sauce: Creamy, nutty condiment that can be served alongside for extra flavor.

How to Prepare Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Like a Pro

Step 1: Prepare Wooden Skewers

Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Chicken Marinade

Combine ingredients for marinade:
  • Fresh ginger, minced
  • Garlic cloves, crushed
  • Soy sauce
  • Coconut cream
  • Sugar
  • Oyster sauce

Coat chicken chunks thoroughly and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to absorb flavors.

Step 3: Craft Coconut Cream Glaze

Whisk together:
  • Coconut cream
  • Honey
  • Soy sauce

Set aside for basting during grilling.

Step 4: Skewer Chicken Carefully

Thread marinated chicken chunks tightly onto pre-soaked wooden skewers.

Step 5: Fire Up The Grill

Preheat grill to 500°F (260°C).

Step 6: Grill To Perfection

Place skewers on hot grill.

Cook for 15-18 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Brush with coconut cream glaze during final minutes.

Continue grilling until chicken is caramelized and fully cooked.

Step 7: Serve And Enjoy

Plate skewers with fresh green lettuce.

Optional: Serve with peanut sauce on the side for extra flavor.

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Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe

Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe


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4.8 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 33 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers blend zesty coconut marinade with tender chicken, offering a tantalizing journey through Thailand’s bold flavors. Succulent spices and creamy coconut create an irresistible summer grilling experience that will transport taste buds straight to Bangkok’s street markets.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 kg (2.2 pounds) chicken (dark meat preferably)

Marinade and Seasoning:

  • 45 slices ginger (approximately 2 tablespoons)
  • 2 cloves garlic (approximately 1½ tablespoons)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons coconut cream
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 6 tablespoons coconut cream (for glaze)
  • 1½ tablespoons honey (for glaze)
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce (for glaze)

Peanut Sauce and Garnish:

  • ¼ cup natural peanut butter (for peanut sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons coconut cream (for peanut sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (for peanut sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste (for peanut sauce)
  • 2 teaspoons maple syrup (for peanut sauce)
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce (for peanut sauce)
  • 23 tablespoons water (for peanut sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional)
  • Crushed peanuts (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare wooden skewers by submerging them in cold water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
  2. Combine minced ginger, crushed garlic, light and dark soy sauces, full-fat coconut cream, granulated sugar, and rich oyster sauce in a non-reactive bowl.
  3. Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch (2.5 centimeters) chunks for consistent cooking and marinate in the prepared mixture for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator, ensuring maximum flavor absorption.
  4. Whisk together additional coconut cream, golden honey, and an extra splash of soy sauce to create a glossy, caramelizing glaze.
  5. Thread marinated chicken pieces tightly and evenly onto pre-soaked wooden skewers, leaving small spaces between chunks for thorough heating.
  6. Preheat grill to high temperature (around 500°F or 260°C), creating distinct grill marks and sealing in juices.
  7. Place skewers on hot grill grates, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side and rotating to ensure even, golden-brown coloration.
  8. Brush skewers generously with prepared coconut cream glaze during final grilling stages to develop a rich, caramelized exterior.
  9. Cook for an additional 15-18 minutes or until internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), guaranteeing safe consumption.
  10. Plate skewers on a bed of crisp green lettuce leaves, offering optional spicy peanut sauce on the side for added depth of flavor.

Notes

  • Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling, ensuring a safer and more successful cooking experience.
  • Marinate chicken for maximum flavor infusion, allowing the blend of ginger, garlic, and sauces to deeply penetrate the meat for a rich, authentic Thai taste.
  • Maintain high grill temperature around 500°F to achieve perfect caramelization and create a delicious charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
  • Brush coconut cream glaze generously during the last few minutes of grilling to develop a stunning golden-brown color and add an extra layer of sweetness.
  • Serve immediately after grilling to enjoy the optimal texture and temperature, pairing with crisp green lettuce for a refreshing contrast.
  • Optional peanut sauce provides a delightful dipping option that complements the coconut and Thai-inspired flavors of the skewers.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Simple Everyday Recipes, Sustainable Cooking Practices, Creative Meal Planning, Recipe Testing and Improvement

Education

Fox Valley Technical College, Appleton, Wisconsin

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Practical culinary training, fundamental cooking techniques, meal planning, and using fresh, local ingredients.

Lake Superior College, Duluth, Minnesota

  • Program: Certificate in Sustainable Food Systems
  • Focus: Cooking methods that promote sustainability, farm-to-table practices, and eco-friendly meal creation.

Lucas Bennett’s cooking journey started in his parents’ kitchen, where he learned to prepare tasty, no-fuss meals from scratch. His culinary passion led him to Fox Valley Technical College, where he gained practical cooking skills.
He then expanded his focus on sustainability at Lake Superior College. Today, Lucas shares easy, approachable recipes designed to make cooking enjoyable and stress-free for everyone.

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