How to Make Thai-Style Marinated Chicken Skewers
Thai-style marinated chicken skewers are a delicious and flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Thailand to your kitchen. Perfect for grilling or baking, these skewers are an ideal choice for parties, barbecues, or a weeknight dinner. Follow this simple recipe to create your own marinated chicken skewers that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of lime juice
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped cilantro (optional)
- Wood or metal skewers
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This will allow for quicker marination and even cooking. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly on the grill or in the oven.
2. Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, minced garlic, coriander, and cumin. Whisk these ingredients together until the sugar is fully dissolved. If you enjoy the taste of cilantro, add it to the marinade for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for 2-4 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. For best results, marinate overnight.
4. Preheat Your Grill or Oven
If you’re grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). For both methods, it’s important to ensure the cooking surface is properly heated for optimal results.
5. Assemble the Skewers
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to assemble your skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
6. Cooking the Skewers
If grilling, place the chicken skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. If baking, place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the skewers from the grill or oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve your Thai-style marinated chicken skewers with a side of jasmine rice, a fresh salad, or some homemade peanut sauce for dipping. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges for a vibrant presentation.
Tips for Perfect Skewers
- Choose chicken thighs for juicier skewers, but breast meat is a leaner option.
- Add colorful bell peppers and onion chunks between the chicken pieces for added flavor and color.
- Experiment with different marinades by adding herbs like basil or mint for a unique twist.
Making Thai-style marinated chicken skewers is an easy and enjoyable culinary adventure. With vibrant flavors and simple ingredients, these skewers are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a taste of Thai cuisine right at home!