These Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are packed with great flavor! The chicken is marinated in a tasty blend of soy sauce, lime, and spices before hitting the grill for a smoky finish.
You can’t go wrong with these skewers. They’re perfect for a fun barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner! I love serving them with rice or a fresh salad on the side—so yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy flavor. You can substitute with chicken breasts if you’d like a leaner option, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out.
Soy Sauce: This adds umami flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, choose tamari instead. If you’re avoiding soy, coconut aminos work well.
Fish Sauce: A must for authentic Thai flavor! If you’re vegetarian or vegan, try using soy sauce or mushroom sauce as an alternative.
Brown Sugar: This helps balance the saltiness. You can use honey or maple syrup as substitutes if you prefer a natural sweetener.
Chili Paste or Sriracha: Use these for heat. If you want it mild, skip this ingredient or use a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a more subtle spice.
How Do You Get Juicy Chicken Skewers Every Time?
Marinating is the key to juicy, flavorful chicken skewers! Here are some tips to ensure great results:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but a few hours (or overnight) yields better flavor.
- Ensure your grill is preheated. Medium-high heat is perfect for a nice sear while keeping the inside juicy.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Packing them too tightly can lead to uneven cooking.
- Baste with leftover marinade while grilling, but remember to discard any that has touched raw chicken.
Let the skewers rest for a couple of minutes off the grill. This helps redistribute the juices for extra moist and tasty bites!
Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon chili paste or Sriracha (optional for heat)
- Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- Fresh lettuce leaves, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for prep and marinating (at least 30 minutes, but 2 hours is best), plus around 15 minutes for grilling. Total time to enjoy these delicious skewers is about 45 minutes, making them a quick and tasty option for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, vegetable oil, and chili paste if you want some spice. Whisk everything together until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Toss thoroughly to coat all the pieces evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the fridge. Aim to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, let it sit for 2 hours if you have time!
3. Prepare the Grill:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You’ll want it hot enough to sear the chicken quickly.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once the chicken has marinated, take your soaked bamboo skewers and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them. Pack them tightly but leave a little space between pieces for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, brushing with any remaining marinade during grilling (discard any marinade that has touched raw chicken). Continue cooking until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. Serve the skewers on fresh lettuce leaves, and if you like, pair them with creamy peanut sauce or a spicy dipping sauce for extra flavor!
These skewers are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick meal or a fun party appetizer! Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but be cautious not to overcook them as they can dry out. Adjust the grilling time to around 4-6 minutes per side, depending on the size of the pieces.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want extra heat, add more chili paste or Sriracha to the marinade. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on the skewers before grilling for additional spice!
Can I Prep This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead of time. Just make sure to keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This allows the flavors to develop even more!
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or briefly microwave them. Enjoy in salads or wraps for a quick meal!
