Fire up the grill for Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce! This dish is perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or a casual dinner. The tender chicken marinated in a blend of Thai flavors pairs beautifully with the creamy peanut sauce, making it a standout dish that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The marinade features soy sauce, lime, and spices that infuse the chicken with incredible taste.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready to impress your guests.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these skewers work well for any occasion.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of grilled chicken and creamy peanut sauce.
- Make Ahead Option: The chicken can be marinated overnight, saving you time on busy days.
Tools and Preparation
To make these delicious Thai marinated grilled chicken skewers, you need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Skewers
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Medium saucepan
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides high heat for perfectly cooking the chicken and achieving those beautiful grill marks.
- Skewers: Helps hold the marinated chicken together while grilling, making it easy to serve and eat.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar, packed
- Zest of one lime
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Peanut Sauce
- 1 (13-oz) can coconut milk (do not use low fat)
- ⅓ cup peanut butter
- ¼ cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice, from 2 limes
For Serving
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
How to Make Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pound the chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness between two pieces of wax or parchment paper. Cut the breasts into 1½-inch pieces and set aside.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Make the marinade by combining the soy sauce, dark brown sugar, lime zest, vegetable oil, garlic, curry powder, ginger, cardamom, and salt in a large bowl. Add the chicken pieces to this bowl and mix until all pieces are evenly coated. Cover with plastic wrap and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 3: Make the Peanut Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together coconut milk, peanut butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, and red curry paste until evenly combined. Bring this mixture to a simmer. Continue stirring occasionally for about 3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in fresh lime juice and set aside.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Grease your grill lightly before placing the skewers on it. Cook for about 10 minutes total time, turning once halfway through cooking until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. Serve hot with peanut sauce and optional lime wedges on the side.
How to Serve Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
These Thai marinated grilled chicken skewers are perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or a family dinner. Pair them with various sides and garnishes to enhance their flavor and presentation.
With Fresh Veggies
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that adds crunch and complements the flavors of the skewers.
- Grilled Corn: Sweet corn brushed with lime butter pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
- Mixed Greens: A simple salad with lettuce, cilantro, and a lime dressing adds freshness.
With Dipping Options
- Extra Peanut Sauce: Serve additional peanut sauce for dipping, enhancing the dish’s richness.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds a sweet and spicy kick that many will enjoy.
- Soy Sauce Mixture: A blend of soy sauce and lime for those who prefer a saltier taste.
With Rice Dishes
- Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice that soaks up the peanut sauce perfectly.
- Coconut Rice: Adds a subtle sweetness that complements the skewers well.
How to Perfect Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
To ensure your Thai marinated grilled chicken skewers are a hit, consider these simple tips.
- Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful the chicken becomes. Aim for overnight if possible.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the marinade’s flavor significantly.
- Skewer Carefully: Thread chicken pieces evenly on skewers to ensure even cooking throughout.
- Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while sealing in juices.
- Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the skewers to rest for a few minutes after grilling keeps them juicy.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Add bell peppers or onions to the skewers for added color and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Complement your meal with delicious side dishes that pair well with Thai marinated grilled chicken skewers. These options will elevate your dining experience.
- Spring Rolls: Crunchy rolls filled with fresh vegetables and served with dipping sauce make a great starter.
- Thai Fried Rice: Flavored with soy sauce and veggies, this dish is hearty and satisfying alongside the skewers.
- Cabbage Slaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the peanut sauce.
- Sticky Rice: This unique texture contrasts nicely with grilled chicken and absorbs flavors well.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus enhances your plate’s freshness without overpowering other flavors.
- Mango Salad: Sweet mango combined with herbs provides a refreshing contrast to savory dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing the chicken enough time to marinate can result in bland skewers. Always marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
- Using Low-Fat Coconut Milk: Low-fat coconut milk won’t provide the rich creaminess needed for the peanut sauce. Opt for full-fat coconut milk for a better texture and flavor.
- Overcrowding the Skewers: Placing too many pieces on each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Thread only a few pieces to ensure they cook properly.
- Ignoring Grill Temperature: Cooking on low heat can dry out the chicken. Preheat your grill to high heat before placing the skewers on it.
- Neglecting to Check Doneness: Always check that chicken is cooked through before serving. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover skewers in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
- Place cooked skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake skewers for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat skewers on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm skewers in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce less spicy?
You can reduce the amount of red curry paste in the peanut sauce or choose a milder brand.
What should I serve with my Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce?
These skewers pair well with jasmine rice, fresh salads, or grilled vegetables.
Can I use different meats for these skewers?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
How long do I need to marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight if possible.
Final Thoughts
Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce are not just delicious; they are also versatile and easy to customize. Feel free to adjust spices and serve them with various sides. Give this recipe a try and delight your taste buds!
Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Fire up your grill for a delicious experience with Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce! This crowd-pleasing dish combines tender chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, lime, and spices, perfectly complemented by a rich and creamy peanut sauce. Ideal for family gatherings or summer barbecues, these skewers are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile as an appetizer or main course. Impress your guests with this delightful recipe that promises to keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar
- Zest of one lime
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can coconut milk
- ⅓ cup peanut butter
Instructions
- Prepare chicken by pounding to an even thickness and cutting into pieces.
- Mix marinade ingredients in a bowl; add chicken and marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- In a saucepan, whisk together peanut sauce ingredients over medium heat until thickened.
- Preheat grill; thread marinated chicken onto skewers and grill for about 10 minutes, turning halfway.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (113g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Marinate overnight for maximum flavor. Add bell peppers or onions to skewers for extra veggies. Serve with jasmine rice or fresh salad.
