Get ready for some fun with these Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers! With tender chicken marinated in tasty Thai spices, they are full of flavor and super easy to make.
These skewers are perfect for summer BBQs or a quick dinner. I love serving them with a fresh salad or over rice—your taste buds will thank you! Plus, they look great on the grill! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you prefer chicken breasts, they can work too, but they might dry out more easily due to less fat.
Soy Sauce: This provides a salty umami flavor. If you’re gluten-free, look for tamari or coconut aminos as good alternatives.
Fish Sauce: This adds depth to the marinade. If you’re avoiding fish, you can swap it for more soy sauce or use a soy sauce alternative.
Brown Sugar: I love using palm sugar for a more authentic flavor, but brown sugar works well too! Honey or maple syrup can be used in a pinch.
Chili Paste: Adjust the heat to your liking! If you want it milder, use less or even try sweet chili sauce instead.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Grilled Chicken Skewers?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky if you don’t manage the heat and timing. Here’s how to achieve perfect results:
- Make sure to preheat your grill to medium-high. This ensures a good sear and prevents sticking.
- Leave space between chicken pieces on the skewers; it helps cook evenly and get a nice char.
- Don’t rush the grilling. Cook the skewers for 4-5 minutes on each side, turning gently to avoid tearing the meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re safe to eat.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after grilling, as this helps the juices redistribute for more tender and flavorful bites!
Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or palm sugar
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1-2 teaspoons chili paste or sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon vegetable or peanut oil
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if bamboo, soak in water 30 minutes before grilling)
- Fresh lettuce leaves for plating
- Optional dipping sauce (e.g., peanut dipping sauce made from peanut butter, coconut milk, red curry paste, and lime juice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, with at least 1 hour for marinating (2-4 hours is even better). Grilling takes about 10-12 minutes. In total, you’re looking at around 1 to 4 hours depending on your marinating time—perfect for planning your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, oyster sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, chili paste, lime juice, and vegetable oil until everything is mixed well.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces into the marinade and stir to ensure they’re coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, aim for 2-4 hours.
3. Preheat Your Grill:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will help get those lovely charred flavors on your skewers.
4. Prepare the Skewers:
Once the chicken is ready, thread the marinated pieces onto your skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. Turn them once or twice until they are nicely charred and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer, if you can!
6. Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the skewers to a serving platter lined with fresh lettuce leaves. This adds a lovely crunch and freshness.
7. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauce on the side. A creamy peanut sauce or a spicy chili dipping sauce pairs wonderfully with these skewers. Enjoy the delicious flavors of Thailand right at home!
Your flavorful, juicy Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are ready to make your meal memorable!
FAQ About Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but remember that they can dry out more easily than thighs. If using breasts, consider marinating for a shorter time or cooking them until just done for the best results!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for 2-4 hours. You can marinate it for up to 24 hours in the fridge, but avoid marinating for too long (over 24 hours) as the acids can start to break down the meat and change the texture.
Can I Make These Skewers in the Oven?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the skewers on a baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through. Just be mindful of whether you’re using bamboo skewers—if so, soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning!
What Should I Do with Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. They make a great addition to salads or wraps!
