Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers With Peanut Sauce Recipe

Tangy Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers With Peanut Sauce Recipe

Vibrant Thai coconut chicken skewers bring a delightful explosion of flavors that dance across your palate with exotic spices and creamy richness.

Mediterranean-inspired marinades rarely capture the intense complexity found in these tantalizing morsels of grilled perfection.

Succulent meat reinvents into a culinary masterpiece when infused with coconut subtle sweetness and aromatic herbs.

Each skewer represents a harmonious blend of textures that crisp beautifully when kissed by flames, creating irresistible caramelized edges.

Fragrant ingredients whisper stories of bustling street markets and generations-old family recipes passed through careful hands.

peanut sauce adds a luxurious depth that elevates these skewers from mere protein to a sensational dining experience.

Skilled home cooks can easily replicate this restaurant-quality dish with simple techniques and readily available ingredients.

Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce for a Bold Taste

  • Bursting with Tropical Flavors: Coconut milk and red curry paste create a mouthwatering blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes that transport your taste buds straight to Thailand.
  • Quick and Effortless Cooking: Marinate for just 20 minutes, then grill or broil for 10 minutes, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknight dinners or spontaneous gatherings.
  • Protein-Packed Crowd-Pleaser: Tender chicken thighs absorb the rich marinade, delivering juicy, flavorful bites that will impress both family and friends with minimal cooking skills required.
  • Versatile Dipping Delight: The creamy, nutty peanut sauce adds an extra layer of excitement, letting guests customize their eating experience with a luxurious sauce that complements the perfectly grilled chicken.

Ingredients for Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce

Chicken and Marinade Ingredients:
  • Chicken Thighs: Tender, boneless meat perfect for absorbing Thai-inspired flavors and creating juicy skewers.
  • Coconut Milk: Rich, creamy base for marinade and sauce that adds authentic Thai profile.
  • Curry Powder: Warm, complex spice blend that provides depth and traditional Thai seasoning.
  • Red Curry Paste: Intense, spicy condiment that brings authentic Thai heat and aromatic complexity.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Peanut Butter: Creamy base that creates rich, nutty sauce with smooth texture.
  • Water: Helps adjust sauce consistency and blend ingredients smoothly.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar: Tangy ingredient that balances sauce and adds subtle brightness.
  • Soy Sauce: Salty, umami element that enhances overall sauce flavor.
Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Granulated Sugar: Adds balanced sweetness to both marinade and sauce.
  • Salt: Essential flavor enhancer that seasons chicken and sauce perfectly.

How to Make Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Create Flavorful Marinade

Blend together coconut milk with:
  • Curry powder
  • Red curry paste
  • Granulated sugar
  • Salt

in a medium mixing bowl. Save remaining coconut milk for sauce preparation.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken

Cut chicken thighs into approximately 4″ pieces. Submerge chicken completely in marinade, ensuring thorough coating. Let chicken absorb flavors for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Craft Creamy Peanut Sauce

In a medium saucepan, combine:
  • Remaining coconut milk
  • Peanut butter
  • Water
  • Sugar
  • Red curry paste
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Soy sauce
  • Salt

Cook over medium heat, stirring consistently for 5 minutes until sauce reaches smooth, thick consistency.

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

Thread marinated chicken pieces tightly onto skewers. Aim for 5-7 pieces per skewer to maintain moisture and ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Heat grill or broiler to high temperature. Cook chicken skewers for 5 minutes per side, checking that internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Pro Tips for Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce

  • Master the Marinade: Let chicken sit in coconut milk mixture for exactly 20 minutes to maximize flavor absorption without breaking down meat proteins.
  • Thread Like a Pro: Pack chicken pieces tightly on skewers, leaving minimal space between chunks to ensure even cooking and juicy results.
  • Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches precise 165°F, preventing overcooking while guaranteeing food safety.
  • Sauce Consistency Matters: Continuously stir peanut sauce while cooking to prevent burning and achieve smooth, creamy texture without lumps.
  • Grill with Precision: Watch skewers closely during high-heat grilling, rotating every 5 minutes to develop beautiful caramelization without charring chicken.

Storing and Reheating Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce

  • Storing Leftovers
  • Refrigerate cooled chicken skewers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and taste.
  • Reheating Options
  • Oven Method: Preheat to 350°F. Arrange skewers on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave Method: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to avoid overcooking. Drizzle reserved peanut sauce to restore moisture if needed.

Pairing Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce

  • Discover Tropical Beverage Companions: Pair these Thai coconut chicken skewers with a crisp Thai Singha beer or a zesty lemongrass mojito to complement the rich, spicy flavors.
  • Unlock Complementary Side Dishes: Serve alongside fragrant jasmine rice or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the skewers' intense taste and provide a cooling contrast.
  • Create Flavor-Enhancing Condiments: Accompany the dish with a bright, tangy green papaya slaw or fresh herb garnish like cilantro and mint to add vibrant freshness and elevate the overall dining experience.
  • Embrace Sweet-Savory Finale: Round out the meal with a light coconut sorbet or mango sticky rice to continue the tropical theme and provide a refreshing sweet ending that echoes the skewers' coconut notes.

Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Variations You’ll Love

  • Tropical Tofu Delight: Swap chicken thighs with firm tofu, marinate in the same coconut milk mixture, and grill for a vegetarian-friendly option that maintains the original recipe's vibrant Thai flavors.
  • Spicy Shrimp Skewers: Replace chicken with large shrimp, reduce marinating time to 10 minutes, and adjust grilling time to 2-3 minutes per side to prevent overcooking while keeping the zesty coconut curry profile.
  • Mango Lime Fusion: Incorporate diced fresh mango into the peanut sauce and add lime zest to the marinade for a bright, citrusy dimension that complements the rich coconut and peanut base flavors.
  • Vegetable Companion Skewers: Thread bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions alongside the protein, brushing with the same marinade to create a colorful, nutritious side that enhances the overall meal experience.
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Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers With Peanut Sauce Recipe

Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers With Peanut Sauce Recipe


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4.8 from 22 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent Thai coconut chicken skewers marinate in zesty lime and creamy coconut milk, creating a perfect balance of tangy and rich flavors. Drizzled with spicy peanut sauce, these skewers transport you to the bustling streets of Bangkok with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) boneless skinless chicken thighs

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 2 teaspoons curry powder
  • 2 teaspoons red curry paste
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Sauce and Liquid Ingredients:

  • 15 ounces (443 milliliters) can coconut milk, divided
  • ¾ cup (177 milliliters) creamy peanut butter
  • ¾ cup (177 milliliters) water
  • ¼ cup (59 milliliters) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Create a flavorful marinade by combining of coconut milk with curry powder, red curry paste, granulated sugar, and salt in a medium mixing bowl, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly blended.
  2. Slice chicken thighs into uniform 4-inch (10-centimeter) pieces to promote even cooking and consistent flavor absorption.
  3. Submerge chicken pieces completely in the prepared marinade, gently massaging to ensure each piece is evenly coated and infused with aromatic spices.
  4. Allow chicken to rest in the marinade for 20 minutes at room temperature, enabling the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat.
  5. Prepare the peanut sauce by combining remaining coconut milk, creamy peanut butter, water, sugar, red curry paste, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and salt in a medium saucepan.
  6. Heat the sauce over medium temperature, stirring consistently for approximately 5 minutes until the mixture transforms into a smooth, thickened consistency.
  7. Carefully thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, positioning 5-7 pieces per skewer and ensuring tight packing to maintain moisture and prevent sliding.
  8. Preheat grill or broiler to high heat, creating an intense cooking environment for optimal caramelization and char.
  9. Grill or broil chicken skewers for 5 minutes per side, rotating carefully to achieve even cooking and a core temperature of 165°F (74°C), indicating fully cooked chicken.
  10. Remove skewers from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness before serving with the prepared peanut sauce.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken for maximum flavor by letting it soak in the coconut milk and spice mixture for at least 20 minutes, allowing the seasonings to deeply penetrate the meat.
  • Ensure chicken is cooked safely by using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F, preventing any risk of foodborne illness.
  • Create a silky-smooth peanut sauce by continuously stirring while cooking, which helps blend the ingredients and prevent scorching or uneven texture.
  • Pack skewers tightly with chicken pieces to help retain moisture and create a more uniform cooking surface for even grilling.
  • Adjust heat levels by controlling the amount of red curry paste, making the dish mild or spicy according to personal preference.
  • Serve immediately after grilling to enjoy the skewers at peak tenderness and flavor, pairing perfectly with the rich, creamy peanut sauce.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 582 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 928 mg
  • Fat: 41 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 185 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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