Name: Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487260H23M54S
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 4–5 slices fresh ginger (approx. 2 tablespoons); 2 cloves garlic (approx. 1 ½ tablespoons); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce; 2 tablespoons coconut cream; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 2 tablespoons coconut cream; 1 teaspoon honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 tablespoons coconut cream; ¼ cup unsweetened natural peanut butter; 1 teaspoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste; 2 teaspoons maple syrup (or honey); 2 teaspoons soy sauce; 2–3 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency); 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional); 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional); Crushed peanuts for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and just a hint of Thai spice, look no further than these Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers. Tender, juicy bites of chicken absorb a fragrant marinade bursting with coconut cream, fresh ginger, and a blend of rich sauces, before sizzling to golden perfection on the grill. Each skewer gets brushed with a glossy coconut glaze and, if you’re feeling a little extra, dipped in a creamy homemade peanut sauce. These skewers are pure joy in every bite—weeknight dinner or backyard party, they’ll steal the show.

Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple it is to put together Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers, but every ingredient here serves a purpose. From the aromatic ginger to that luscious coconut cream, these flavors all play their part in making this recipe totally irresistible.

Ginger: Adds a punchy, slightly peppery warmth that wakes up the marinade.
Garlic: Brings a deep, savory backbone to both marinade and sauce.
Soy Sauce: Essential for its salty, umami-rich magic that soaks into each bite.
Dark Soy Sauce: Provides color and an even deeper, molasses-like depth.
Coconut Cream: The star for that subtle sweetness and dreamy texture in both marinade and glaze.
Sugar: Balances out the salty and spicy notes with gentle sweetness.
Oyster Sauce: Adds a savory, slightly sweet undertone that makes everything pop.
Honey (for glaze): Lends a caramelized finish while sticking that glaze beautifully to the chicken.
Peanut Butter (for optional sauce): Creamy, nutty richness that pairs perfectly with coconut and spiced marinade.
Rice Vinegar: Brightens up the peanut sauce with gentle tang.
Thai Red Curry Paste: Brings the unmistakable Thai flavor and a gentle kick.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Adds natural sweetness and shine to the peanut sauce.
Sesame Oil & Chili Oil (optional): Layer in aromatic nuttiness and mellow heat to the peanut sauce.
Crushed Peanuts (optional garnish): Add crunch and gorgeous presentation.
Fresh Cilantro (for serving): Gives a fresh, vibrant pop of green.

How to Make Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

First up for amazing Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers: get that chicken soaking in every bit of flavor. Finely chop the ginger and garlic (a food processor makes this extra speedy) and combine them with both soy sauces, coconut cream, oyster sauce, and sugar in a bowl. Toss in your chicken pieces, making sure each one is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight will give you outrageously flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth results.

Step 2: Prep the Skewers

Thread your marinated chicken onto skewers—don’t pack them too tight! If you’re using wooden skewers, let them soak in water for about 30 minutes before you use them so they won’t catch fire on the grill. Lining up a rainbow of skewers on a platter somehow makes every cookout feel just a little more special.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 500°F, or 260°C)—you want it hot enough for a good char but not so hot that it scorches the chicken. Arrange the skewers on the grill and cook for 15 to 18 minutes, turning often. Watch them develop that irresistible golden-brown crust as the marinade caramelizes, filling the air with mouthwatering aromas.

Step 4: Apply the Coconut Cream Glaze

While the chicken finishes up on the grill, whisk together the coconut cream, honey, and a splash of soy sauce for a simple yet decadent glaze. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush this mixture onto the skewers. The glaze not only makes the chicken glisten but also amps up the coconut flavor and brings delightfully sticky, sweet notes to the finished dish.

Step 5: Make the Peanut Sauce (Optional but Worth It!)

If you have a few extra minutes, don’t skip the peanut sauce! Stir together coconut cream, peanut butter, a touch of rice vinegar, Thai red curry paste, sweetener, soy sauce, and a bit of water to get your perfect dipping consistency. For those who love a little kick, drizzle in sesame oil and chili oil. This sauce is creamy, tangy, and perfect for dunking your Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Plate up your skewers hot off the grill, sprinkle with crushed peanuts and fresh cilantro, and serve the peanut sauce on the side. You are in for a feast—each bite is bursting with flavor, texture, and a hint of Thai sunshine.

How to Serve Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers

Garnishes

A little garnish turns these already stunning Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers into pure showstoppers. I love to scatter fresh cilantro leaves and a handful of chopped roasted peanuts over the top for a pop of green and a bit of crunch. Thinly sliced red chilies or a squeeze of lime juice add color and a zesty finish if you’re looking to impress.

Side Dishes

These skewers play well with so many sides! Think bowls of sticky jasmine or coconut rice to soak up any extra sauce, a crisp cucumber salad tossed with a light vinaigrette, or a platter of grilled vegetables. Spring rolls or fresh mango for dessert? Absolutely. They’ll round out your Thai-inspired meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers on a large platter arranged over banana leaves for a festive, tropical look. Or, slide the cooked chicken off the skewer and into lettuce cups for an interactive, hand-held appetizer. If you’re entertaining, mini skewers are always a hit for cocktail parties and easy grazing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have extra skewers? Lucky you! Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavor deepens as they sit, making for a delicious cold lunch or next-day snack.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers, it’s best to do so before adding the glaze for optimal texture. Arrange cooled, unglazed cooked skewers in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to two months. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-off-the-grill goodness, warm your skewers in a 350°F (175°C) oven or a hot skillet covered with foil for about 10 minutes. Be gentle so the chicken stays juicy, and feel free to brush on a little extra glaze or peanut sauce before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works well if you slice it into even strips. Just be careful not to overcook since breast meat can dry out more easily than thighs, which tend to stay juicier.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No grill? No problem! You can cook Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers on a grill pan or even roast them in a super-hot oven. Broil for a couple of minutes at the end to get that lovely charred finish.

Is the peanut sauce spicy?

The peanut sauce has a mild kick thanks to the Thai red curry paste, but it is definitely more creamy and tangy than hot. If you like more heat, add a few drops of chili oil or a pinch of chili flakes.

Can I make these skewers ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for even more flavor. You can thread the skewers and refrigerate them for several hours before grilling, then cook and glaze right before guests arrive.

What’s the best way to keep skewers juicy?

The real secret is in the marinade: the coconut cream helps lock in moisture and the sugar boosts caramelization so they don’t dry out. Don’t skip the resting time after grilling—just a few minutes lets all those juices redistribute for perfect, tender bites.

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s both fun to make and destined to be the highlight of your meal, you can’t go wrong with Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers. Fire up your grill, gather your favorite people, and get ready for flavor-packed bites bursting with Thai-inspired goodness. I can’t wait for you to try these—let me know how they turn out!

Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 9 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (including marinating time)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers are bursting with flavor from a delicious marinade and a coconut cream glaze. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner, these skewers are sure to impress!

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken – Finely chop the garlic and ginger or use a food processor. Combine with soy sauces, coconut cream, sugar, and oyster sauce in a bowl. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Prepare Skewers – Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
Grill the Chicken – Preheat grill to medium-high (around 500°F / 260°C). Grill skewers for 15–18 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked with a nice char.
Apply the Glaze – While grilling, mix the glaze ingredients in a small bowl. Brush onto the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking for a glossy, caramelized finish.
Make the Peanut Sauce (Optional) – Combine all peanut sauce ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Adjust consistency with water as needed.
Serve – Serve chicken skewers hot with peanut sauce on the side. Garnish with crushed peanuts and fresh cilantro, if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Thai