Name: Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1/4 cup coconut milk; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated); 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup coconut milk; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional); 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional); Chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving

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If you’re craving vibrant, bold flavors that transport you straight to a bustling Thai street market, you will instantly fall in love with Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce. These skewers are juicy, charred to perfection, soaked in a dreamy marinade, and served with a creamy, slightly spicy peanut sauce that’s so good you’ll want to eat it by the spoonful. Easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for a weekend gathering, this dish is an absolute highlight for anyone who appreciates unforgettable homemade Thai-inspired meals.

Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly these simple yet carefully chosen ingredients come together to create layers of complexity in this dish. Each one adds something essential, whether it’s tenderness, a pop of color, or a burst of umami-rich flavor.

Chicken Thighs: Tender and juicy even after grilling, making them ideal for skewers.
Coconut Milk: Adds rich creaminess and tenderizes the chicken as it marinates.
Soy Sauce: Brings a savory depth and balances the sweeter notes in the marinade and sauce.
Fish Sauce: The secret ingredient for authentic Thai umami; just a splash packs a punch.
Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle caramel sweetness and helps create those gorgeous grill marks.
Fresh Lime Juice: Brightens the marinade and sauce and balances all the bold flavors.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the chicken moist on the grill and helps prevent sticking.
Garlic: For aromatic zing and depth in every bite.
Fresh Ginger: Gives the marinade warmth and a slight peppery aroma.
Ground Coriander: Provides earthy citrus notes classic in Thai grilling.
Ground Turmeric: A pinch for color and those subtle exotic undertones.
Bamboo or Metal Skewers: Bamboo skewers need a soak in water to prevent burning.
Creamy Peanut Butter: The base of that irresistible, nutty dipping sauce.
Coconut Milk (for sauce): More creamy richness for the peanut sauce.
Soy Sauce (for sauce): Keeps the sauce savory and balanced.
Brown Sugar (for sauce): Delivers sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the peanut flavors.
Fresh Lime Juice (for sauce): Adds brightness and a gentle tang to the sauce.
Rice Vinegar: For subtle acidity in the peanut sauce.
Hoisin Sauce (optional): Adds an extra layer of savory-sweet depth if you have it on hand.
Chili Garlic Sauce (optional): Give your sauce a little heat if you love spice.
Fresh Cilantro and Lime Wedges: Essential for that final fresh, colorful flourish when serving.

How to Make Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, ground coriander, and turmeric. You’ll find the aroma positively mouthwatering right from the start, and this combination creates an authentic Thai base that deeply infuses the chicken with flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing well so every bite gets coated. Cover and pop the bowl in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour or, if possible, overnight. The longer soak really works its magic, tenderizing the chicken and partially infusing it with that unmistakable Thai taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

If you’re using bamboo skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, packing them just close enough for even cooking but with a little room for heat to circulate.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Heat your grill to medium-high and brush the grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and let them cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, turning once until the chicken is beautifully charred and cooked through. The sizzling aroma will draw everyone to the kitchen—get ready for some dinner table excitement!

Step 5: Make the Peanut Sauce

While the chicken is on the grill, whisk together the peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, rice vinegar, and, if you’re using them, the hoisin and chili garlic sauce. The result should be a smooth, creamy sauce. Add a splash of warm water if you like a thinner consistency. This is your ticket to a restaurant-worthy finish that takes the Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce to the next level.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the grilled chicken skewers to a platter, scatter with chopped fresh cilantro, and tuck in plenty of lime wedges. Serve immediately with the luscious peanut sauce alongside for dipping. Get ready for rave reviews!

How to Serve Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce

Garnishes

Don’t skip the fresh cilantro and juicy lime wedges! A generous shower of chopped cilantro adds herby brightness, while squeezing fresh lime over the skewers just before eating really makes the flavors sing. You can also toss on a handful of chopped peanuts for delicious crunch.

Side Dishes

These skewers are incredibly versatile, but they pair especially well with fluffy jasmine rice or sticky rice to soak up that extra peanut sauce. For a lighter touch, go for a cucumber salad tossed with a bit of rice vinegar and sugar, or try grilled veggies for a colorful and healthy plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce stacked on a big communal platter for a shared family-style meal, or arrange each skewer individually over rice in bowls, drizzling extra sauce over the top. For a party, try mini skewers as an appetizer—just be prepared, they’ll be gone before you know it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftovers? Simply remove the chicken from the skewers and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the peanut sauce separately in a small jar—you’ll want to drizzle it over everything!

Freezing

Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce actually freeze quite well. Freeze the skewered, cooked chicken in a single layer, wrapped tightly or sealed in a freezer bag, for up to 2 months. The peanut sauce can be frozen separately in small containers; just thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a 300°F oven until heated through. For the best texture, avoid microwaving the skewers; if microwaving, do so in short bursts and cover loosely with a damp towel to prevent drying. Reheat the peanut sauce in a small saucepan over low heat with a splash of water to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works in this recipe, just keep in mind it can dry out a bit faster on the grill. Marinate thoroughly and watch your cooking time, pulling the skewers as soon as the chicken is cooked through and still juicy.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No grill? No problem! You can cook the skewers under your oven’s broiler on a lined baking sheet, turning them halfway through. A stovetop grill pan or even a nonstick skillet also works beautifully for Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce.

How spicy is the peanut sauce?

The base recipe is mild and crowd-pleasing, but it’s easy to dial up the heat by adding more chili garlic sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the peanut sauce. You’re in full control of the spice level, so tailor it to your tastes.

Can I prep these ahead for a party?

Yes! Marinate the chicken and make the peanut sauce the night before, then simply thread the skewers and grill when guests arrive. Both the chicken and the sauce taste even better as the flavors meld, making this dish perfect for easy entertaining.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It sure can be! Just swap in a gluten-free soy sauce (or tamari) to keep the entire dish gluten-free. Double-check your other sauces, especially hoisin, to be sure if gluten is a concern.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try these Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce. Every bite is a joyful burst of flavor and texture that will have you coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Fire up the grill and let this recipe bring a touch of Thai magic to your next meal.

Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 26 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Thai Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce are bursting with bold flavors of coconut, lime, and spices. The juicy chicken skewers are grilled to perfection and served with a creamy peanut sauce for a delightful meal that’s perfect for a backyard barbecue or a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinated Chicken:

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1/4 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons fish sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

Peanut Sauce:

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/4 cup coconut milk
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (optional)
Chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, coriander, and turmeric. Add chicken pieces, coat well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Prepare Skewers: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers after soaking if using bamboo. Grill over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
Make Peanut Sauce: Mix peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and chili garlic sauce until smooth. Thin with warm water if needed.
Serve: Serve hot chicken skewers with peanut sauce for dipping. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.