Name: Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 1 h 38 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 kg chicken (dark meat preferably), cut into 1×1 inch chunks; 4-5 slices ginger (approx. 2 tablespoons), finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic (approx. 1½ tablespoons), finely chopped; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce; 2 tablespoons coconut cream; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 6 tablespoons coconut cream; 1½ tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 2 tablespoons coconut cream; ¼ cup natural peanut butter (unsweetened); 1 teaspoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste; 2 teaspoons maple syrup; 2 teaspoons soy sauce; 2-3 tablespoons water (to thin sauce); 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional); 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional); Crushed peanuts (optional, sprinkled on top); Green lettuce leaves (for serving and wraps)

“`html

If you’re craving something vibrant, full of bold flavors, and perfect for a warm gathering, you have to try this Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Recipe. It brilliantly marries tender, juicy chicken marinated in fragrant coconut cream and Thai spices, grilled to smoky perfection, and finished off with a luscious, nutty peanut sauce that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re an experienced grill master or a home cook wanting to impress friends and family, this recipe is an absolute delight that balances sweet, savory, creamy, and spicy in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden bowl lined with white paper, filled with four raw chicken thighs that are pale with a smooth texture and slight sheen, placed near the center. Around the bowl, there are various ingredients: on the left side, a whole garlic bulb with one peeled clove and loose white peels scattered around, a small white measuring cup filled with brown sugar, and a small silver cup with dark liquid. On the bottom center, a wooden square bowl holds a dollop of white solid fat. On the right side, a white square dish contains a dark brown sauce, and nearby there are two fresh ginger roots with a rough, tan skin. All these items are placed on a worn wooden surface changed to a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity and fresh ingredients, each playing a key role to create that irresistible combination of textures, tastes, and colors. From aromatic ginger and garlic to rich coconut cream and an indulgent peanut sauce, every element brings something special to your plate.

1 kg chicken (dark meat preferably): Juicy and flavorful, dark meat stays tender during grilling.
4-5 slices ginger (approx. 2 tablespoons): Adds fresh, zesty warmth and a subtle kick.
2 cloves garlic (approx. 1½ tablespoons): Provides deep savory notes that complement the marinade.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Balances salty umami flavors in the chicken marinade.
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce: Delivers a richer color and deeper flavor to the meat.
2 tablespoon coconut cream: Adds creamy tropical sweetness essential for the marinade.
2 tablespoons sugar: Enhances sweetness to balance the salty and savory ingredients.
1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Gives an extra layer of umami punch in the mix.
6 tablespoons coconut cream (for glaze): Creates a luscious glaze for a caramelized finish.
1 1/2 tablespoons honey: Perfect for sticky sweetness in the coconut cream glaze.
1 teaspoon soy sauce (for glaze): A hint of saltiness to balance the glaze’s sweetness.
2 tablespoons coconut cream (for peanut sauce): Provides the creamy base of the peanut sauce.
1/4 cup natural peanut butter (unsweetened): The rich, nutty heart of the dipping sauce.
1 teaspoon rice vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity to brighten the peanut sauce.
1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste: Brings subtle heat and authentic Thai depth to the sauce.
2 teaspoons maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness with a hint of complexity.
2 teaspoons soy sauce (for peanut sauce): Complements the savory notes in the sauce.
2-3 tablespoons water: Helps thin the peanut sauce to your preferred consistency.
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional): Adds a toasty richness and aroma to the peanut sauce.
1 teaspoon chili oil (optional): For those who love a little spicy kick.
Crushed peanuts (optional, sprinkled on top): Adds delightful crunch and extra peanut flavor as garnish.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Quick & Easy Peanut Sauce

Start by whisking together all the peanut sauce ingredients in a small bowl: coconut cream, natural peanut butter, rice vinegar, Thai red curry paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, water, and optional oils. This sauce is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy that will elevate your chicken skewers to something truly memorable. Set it aside so the flavors can meld while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Marinate and Skewer the Chicken

First, soak your wooden skewers in water to prevent burning during grilling. Then, cut the chicken into bite-size 1-inch chunks and place them in a bowl. Finely chop the garlic and ginger — these aromatics are the backbone of your marinade and will seep into every morsel of meat. Add soy sauces, coconut cream, oyster sauce, sugar, and the garlic-ginger mix to the chicken, stirring everything thoroughly. Marinate in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours; overnight if you have the time, for the deepest flavor infusion.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill and Skewer the Chicken

Pull the marinated chicken out of the fridge about 30 minutes before grilling to bring it closer to room temperature. Thread the chicken onto skewers tightly so pieces don’t shift or burn unevenly. Pro tip: use the chicken chunks as a shield when sliding onto the skewer to avoid splinters. Get your grill hot—aim for around 500°F (260°C)—to lock in juiciness and achieve those beautiful char marks.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers to Perfection

Place the skewers over direct heat and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping every 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn, but you do want those charred edges for that smoky flavor. When the chicken starts feeling firmer on the skewer, brush on the coconut cream glaze made with coconut cream, honey, and soy sauce. Flip every minute or so while glazing to build up a luscious, caramelized coating that tastes like pure tropical bliss.

How to Serve Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle crushed peanuts over the chicken skewers right before serving for a satisfying crunch and a nutty aroma that ties the dish together beautifully. Fresh lettuce leaves also make a great edible garnish, not only adding pops of green but also providing a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm, caramelized meat and creamy peanut sauce.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides that complement the richness of the chicken and peanut sauce. Steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice soaks up the juices beautifully, while a tangy cucumber salad with lime and chili adds vibrant freshness. For a more substantial meal, try grilled vegetables or a simple Thai mango salad for a balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these skewers into a fun party snack by serving them over a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for DIY chicken lettuce wraps. Guests can spoon on peanut sauce and wrap the chicken with greens in hand. Alternatively, arrange the skewers on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil and a bowl of peanut sauce for dipping—perfect for sharing and making your table look colorful and inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover grilled Thai coconut chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the peanut sauce separate in a small jar or container to maintain its fresh texture. When stored properly, the flavors remain vibrant and the chicken stays juicy.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this delightful recipe later, freeze the cooked chicken skewers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed inside a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Freeze the peanut sauce separately to avoid any texture changes.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the skewers in the fridge overnight and gently warm them in an oven or on a grill to restore that delicious char and juiciness. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the chicken. Reheat the peanut sauce in a small bowl over low heat or in the microwave for a few seconds and stir well before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of dark meat for this recipe?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but keep in mind it tends to dry out faster on the grill. You may want to shorten the cooking time a bit and be extra mindful to not overcook it. Dark meat offers more juiciness and flavor for this dish.

What can I substitute for coconut cream if I can’t find it?

If coconut cream isn’t available, you can use full-fat coconut milk, but it will be slightly thinner. To thicken, simply chill the coconut milk beforehand and scoop the cream off the top, or use a little cornstarch mixed with water to create a glaze consistency.

Is the peanut sauce spicy?

The peanut sauce has a mild heat from the Thai red curry paste and optional chili oil, but it’s very balanced with sweetness and creaminess. If you prefer it less spicy, simply reduce or omit the chili oil and curry paste.

Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

The current recipe relies on chicken and oyster sauce, but you can swap chicken for firm tofu or tempeh and replace oyster sauce with a mushroom-based vegetarian alternative. The peanut sauce is already plant-based, making it easy to adapt.

How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?

At minimum, 1-2 hours of marinating is great to infuse flavor. However, marinating overnight gives the chicken the most depth of flavor and tenderness, turning your skewers into a truly unforgettable meal.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so instantly delightful about this Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce Recipe—a dish that feels both special and accessible, perfect for sharing around the grill or at a dinner table filled with laughter. The blend of creamy coconut, fragrant spices, smoky char, and luscious peanut sauce will easily become one of your go-to recipes when you want to impress without the stress. Don’t wait to put on your apron and experience this taste of Thai-inspired bliss!

“`