Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe

There's something truly magical about the sizzle of juicy chicken hitting a hot grill, especially when it's marinated in rich coconut milk and fragrant Thai spices. These Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers are an explosion of flavors—sweet, savory, a little spicy, and perfectly smoky.

this Recipe

I first created this recipe after returning from a trip to Thailand, where the street food vendors inspired me with their vibrant skewers and bold flavors. Since then, these skewers have become a staple at our family barbecues, delighting guests with every bite.

Let's dive right into why you'll love making these irresistible skewers.

Why You'll Love This Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers

Get ready to elevate your grilling game with a recipe that's as simple as it is impressive. These Thai-inspired chicken skewers are bursting with flavor, making them a standout at any meal or gathering.

First and foremost, they are incredibly quick and easy to prepare. The marinade comes together in minutes using pantry staples, and after a short marination time, the chicken cooks up fast on the grill. This makes it a perfect option for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.

Next, the flavor profile is absolutely unbeatable. The combination of creamy coconut milk, zesty lime, fragrant garlic, and warm ginger creates a marinade that deeply infuses the chicken with authentic Thai flavors. Every bite offers a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and spicy.

Another big win is how budget-friendly this recipe is. With just a handful of affordable ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it came straight from a Thai restaurant—without the hefty price tag.

Finally, these skewers are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as an appetizer, a main course with rice or salad, or even wrapped in flatbread with fresh herbs and a drizzle of peanut sauce. They easily adapt to whatever occasion you’re planning for.

With so many reasons to love these Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers, let’s move on to the key ingredients that make this dish shine.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these skewers lies in the perfect balance of fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create complex flavors.

The star of the dish is boneless, skinless chicken thighs. I prefer using thighs over breasts because they remain tender and juicy even after grilling. Their slightly higher fat content ensures the meat stays flavorful and moist, making each bite absolutely delicious.

Next up is coconut milk, which serves as the base of the marinade. Its natural sweetness and creaminess help tenderize the chicken while imparting a subtle tropical flavor that pairs wonderfully with the Thai spices. Be sure to use full-fat coconut milk for the richest taste and best texture.

Fresh lime juice adds brightness and a hint of acidity that balances the richness of the coconut milk. The lime also helps to tenderize the chicken and enhances the overall freshness of the dish.

Garlic and ginger are essential for that authentic Thai flavor. Freshly minced garlic brings a sharp, pungent depth, while grated ginger adds a warm, slightly spicy undertone that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

To round out the marinade, fish sauce and brown sugar are used. The fish sauce provides umami and saltiness, while the brown sugar lends a touch of caramelized sweetness that helps the chicken develop a gorgeous char on the grill.

For equipment, you’ll need skewers—either metal or wooden (if using wooden, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning). A grill or grill pan will ensure you get those beautiful sear marks and smoky flavor.

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s walk through how to bring this dish together.

How To Make This Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers

Creating these flavorful skewers is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to ensure perfect results every time.

Start by preparing the marinade. In a large mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Whisk everything together until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Next, cut your chicken thighs into uniform, bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes the skewers easy to eat. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing well to ensure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. If you have more time, marinating overnight will deepen the flavors even further.

While the chicken marinates, prepare your grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking. If you're using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaked in water to avoid burning.

Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece to allow for even heat distribution. Carefully place the skewers on the preheated grill.

Grill the skewers for about 4-5 minutes per side. You’re looking for nicely charred grill marks and an internal temperature of 165°F. The marinade’s sugars will caramelize slightly, giving the chicken a beautiful golden hue and enhancing the flavor.

After grilling, let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 20-25 minutes of active cooking time, making this a quick and satisfying meal option.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare in my house!), storing them is simple and straightforward.

Place any cooled skewers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to remove the chicken from the skewers before storing to save space and maintain freshness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Place the pieces in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

When it's time to reheat, the best method is gently warming the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or coconut milk to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook, as this can dry out the chicken.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is to different tastes and dietary needs.

For a spicier kick, add some Thai red curry paste or sriracha to the marinade. This will introduce an extra layer of heat and complexity that spice lovers will appreciate.

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute chicken breasts for the thighs. Just be mindful to not overcook them, as breasts tend to dry out more quickly than thighs.

For a vegetarian option, try using firm tofu or tempeh in place of chicken. The marinade works beautifully with plant-based proteins, and grilling them adds a delightful smoky flavor.

You can also experiment with additional aromatics, such as lemongrass or kaffir lime leaves, to give the skewers an even more authentic Thai flair. These ingredients add a bright, citrusy aroma that elevates the dish.

Finally, if you're serving a crowd, consider doubling the recipe and offering a variety of dipping sauces on the side, like peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a simple lime dipping sauce. It makes for a fun and interactive meal everyone can enjoy.

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own. The flavors are forgiving and versatile, so feel free to experiment until you find your perfect combination.

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