How do I keep grilled Thai coconut chicken skewers juicy?

The key to juicy grilled Thai coconut chicken skewers lies in using chicken thighs (higher fat content), marinating for at least 2 hours, and not overcooking. The coconut milk in the marinade acts as a natural tenderizer, while the fat content keeps the meat moist during grilling.

Can grilled Thai coconut chicken skewers be made ahead?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and assemble the skewers the morning of your event. Store covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature 30 minutes before grilling for best results.

What to serve with grilled Thai coconut chicken skewers?

These skewers pair beautifully with coconut rice, Thai cucumber salad, grilled vegetables, or fresh lettuce wraps. For a complete Thai feast, serve alongside pad thai, mango salad, or Thai basil fried rice.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight (up to 24 hours) produces the best results. The acids in the lime juice and enzymes in the ginger help tenderize the meat while the coconut milk infuses deep flavor.

Ultimate Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers – Incredibly Juicy Coconut-Marinated BBQ Recipe

Name: Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers -Juicy Coconut-Marinated BBQ Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1½-inch cubes; 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk; 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for gluten-free); Juice of 1 lime; Zest of 1 lime; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; ½ teaspoon ground turmeric; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; Fresh cilantro leaves; Lime wedges; Toasted sesame seeds; Chopped peanuts

Description

Juicy, tender chicken marinated in a creamy coconut milk base infused with Thai red curry, garlic, and lime, then grilled to smoky perfection on skewers. These Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers are a tropical taste explosion with a hint of heat and an irresistible char. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a party or a weeknight dinner, these skewers bring big flavor with minimal fuss!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Marinade:

1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1½-inch cubes
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for gluten-free)
Juice of 1 lime
Zest of 1 lime
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish (optional):

Fresh cilantro leaves
Lime wedges
Toasted sesame seeds
Chopped peanuts

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Instructions

Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, red curry paste, garlic, brown sugar, fish sauce, lime juice and zest, oil, turmeric, and black pepper until well combined.
Marinate the Chicken:
Add chicken pieces to the marinade. Toss to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for maximum flavor.
Soak the Skewers:
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Assemble the Skewers:
Thread marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, packing them closely but not too tightly.
Grill the Skewers:
Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Brush with oil.
Grill skewers for 4–5 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks.
Serve:
Plate the skewers and garnish with chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, cilantro, and extra lime wedges. Serve hot with jasmine rice or a Thai cucumber salad.

Notes

Substitutions:
- Chicken breast works too, though thighs stay juicier.
- For a vegan version, use firm tofu or seitan and soy sauce instead of fish sauce.
Add heat:
Mix in a chopped Thai chili or ½ tsp chili flakes for spicier marinade.
Meal Prep Tip:
Marinate and skewer ahead of time, then freeze for future grilling.
Make it a meal:
Serve with coconut rice and a mango salad for a Thai-style feast.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 skewer
Calories: 380 kcal
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 540mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 90mg