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Skewered Thai Recipe: Grilled Chicken Skewers

Skewered Thai recipes are a popular culinary delight, reflecting the diverse and vibrant flavors found across Thailand’s rich culinary landscape. Here’s the scoop on skewered Thai recipe!

close up of skewers

These skewers, often consisting of marinated meat or vegetables, showcase a beautiful balance of sweet, sour, salty and spicy flavors.

Resulting in dishes that are both flavorful and visually appealing. 

From well-known street food favorites like Moo Ping and Thai Satay to exquisite grilled curries served at high-end Thai restaurants, skewered Thai cuisine has earned its place in the hearts of food lovers worldwide.

If you’ve been wondering whether you really did just see one of the possible answers to your crossword above, then you’re completely correct.  

Skewers

skewers in a bowl of rice and leaves

While the term Satay may give you a crossword clue for what a skewered Thai recipe may be called, it’s also important to know that it’s an incredibly tasty dish adored by foodies around the world. 

Moo Ping, or Thai-style grilled pork skewers, is one of the most beloved of these skewered dishes. 

Featuring tender strips of marinated pork in a mix of garlic, cilantro root or stems, palm sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and white pepper, the grilled Thai pork skewer is cooked to perfection over an open flame using direct flame methods, resulting in a deliciously smoky and succulent finish. 

Similarly, Thai Satay, which also serves as a clue skewered Thai recipe term in your crossword, showcases marinated meat, typically chicken or beef, threaded onto wooden skewers and grilled until tender. 

Often served with a rich peanut sauce, it highlights the incredible combination of flavors Thai cuisine is known for.

Another excellent skewered Thai recipe is the Grilled Thai Curry Chicken Skewers with Coconut-Peanut Sauce. 

This dish creatively incorporates the intricate flavors of Thai curry with a creamy coconut-peanut dipping sauce. Providing a wonderful depth and complexity to the dish. 

The Thai chicken skewers, combined with the rich and luscious sauce, make this dish an absolute hit during gatherings and cookouts. 

Across these distinct dishes, skewered Thai cuisine captivates taste buds with a blend of techniques and ingredients. Making a lasting impression in the gastronomic world.

Skewered Thai Recipe Overview

thai skewers on plate with tomatoes

Skewered Thai recipes are popular and easy to make dishes that are perfect for outdoor grilling or indoor Thai cooking. 

They often feature protein, like chicken or ground pork, marinated in a flavorful mix of tangy, sweet, and spicy sauces, then grilled on skewers.

These dishes are often served with homemade dipping sauces, such as peanut sauce

The sauces are known for their classic Thai ingredients, like coconut cream or milk, peanut butter, brown sugar (or coconut sugar), soy sauce, and red curry powder or paste. 

The combination of flavors provides a unique and delicious experience for the taste buds.

Nutrition-wise, skewered Thai recipes vary depending on the choice of protein and ingredients used. 

However, they generally provide a good balance of calories, fat, and protein. 

The grilled method of cooking helps reduce the overall fat content since excess oil and fat can drip away from the skewers during the grilling process, whether you cook them with direct heat or indirect heat on a gas bbq or grill. 

This will help to provide a healthier meal option.

skewers on plate with tomatoes and limes

In terms of cooking time, skewered Thai recipes are relatively fast and easy to prepare. 

The marinating process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. While the actual grilling time usually ranges from 15 to 20 minutes. 

Here’s a quick breakdown that should give you enough time to cook this popular street food at home:

Marinating TimeGrilling Time
30 to 60 minutes15 to 20 minutes

To ensure even cooking and prevent burning, it’s important to turn the pork or chicken satay skewers frequently on the hot grill. 

This also helps to achieve a delicious, grilled outer crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Skewered Thai recipes are an enjoyable way to bring the tastes of Thailand to your dining table. 

With a diverse range of options for protein and sauces, these dishes offer both tasty and nutritious meal choices, perfect for grilling outdoors or cooking indoors.

Follow the instructions outlined ahead to add this  crowd pleaser dish to your recipe card.

Ingredients and Preparation

plate full of skewers with sauce and veggies

Marinade Ingredients

To create a delicious marinade for skewered Thai recipes, you’ll need the following ingredients which could be found at an Asian grocery store:

  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
  • 3 cloves minced garlic
  • Zest and juice of 1 lime
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves

Combine all of these ingredients in a mixing bowl, whisking well to create a smooth and flavorful marinade.

Skewer and Grilling Ingredients

white plate full of skewers and vegetables

For the skewers and grilling, you’ll need these products which could be found in large supermarkets:

  • 1 to 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips or bite-sized pieces
  • Wooden or metal skewers (pre-soaked in water for 30 minutes if using wooden skewers)
  • 1 tablespoons vegetable oil for grilling

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving some space for easy handling when grilling. 

Preheat your grill pan or oven (you can use either a charcoal grill, broil, or barbecue setting in the oven) at medium-high heat and cook the skewers for about 3-4 minutes per side, until the chicken is well charred by the hot coals on the gas grill and cooked through.

You’ll be able to tell this by looking at the grill marks on the small pieces of meat on the bamboo skewers. 

For any remaining marinade that you might have left, make sure to pour it into an airtight container and place it in the fridge or store it at room temperature. 

Side Dishes and Accompaniments

A skewered Thai dish is best served with these tasty side dishes and accompaniments:

  • Jasmine rice or Thai coconut rice (sticky rice will also do)
  • Peanut sauce made with the secret ingredient, peanut butter, as well as honey, sriracha, and lime juice
  • Fresh vegetables, such as sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, for serving
  • Lime wedges for garnishing

You can also try additional options like stir-fried noodles, pickled vegetables, or a simple salad with a tangy dressing.

To serve, arrange the chicken skewers on a platter with the side dishes and accompaniments. 

Don’t forget to provide extra peanut sauce for dipping, and enjoy your delicious skewered Thai complete meal!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

bowl of rice with skewers on platter

Preparing the Marinade

Start by preparing a Thai-inspired marinade by whisking together the following ingredients:

  • Coconut milk
  • Brown sugar
  • Red curry paste
  • Ginger
  • Lime zest
  • Salt and pepper

Once the mixture is well combined in a small bowl, set it aside for marinating your protein of choice.

Marinating the Protein

Choose your preferred protein, such as chicken or pork. 

Cut it into bite-sized pieces and place them in a resealable freezer bag. 

Pour the marinade over the protein and ensure that all the pieces are evenly coated. 

Seal the bag and let the protein marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or up to 8 hours for optimal flavor absorption.

Preparing the Skewers

While the protein marination process is going on, prepare the skewers. 

If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during the grilling process. 

Alternatively, you can use metal skewers as well.

Grilling the Skewers

When the protein has finished marinating, preheat your grill to medium heat. 

If you do not have access to a grill, an oven or a charcoal grill can be used as well. 

Before starting, grease the grill with a little bit of oil to prevent the skewers from sticking.

Thread the marinated protein pieces onto the soaked skewers. 

Cook the skewers for 10 to 15 minutes, turning them halfway through. 

Ensure that the protein is cooked through and has a slight char on the outside.

Finishing Touches

After grilling the skewers, you can brush them with additional marinade or even a coconut-peanut sauce for an extra bit of flavor. 

Serve the skewers on a platter alongside your favorite Thai-inspired side dish, such as jasmine rice or a fresh salad. 

Enjoy your delicious skewered Thai masterpiece!

Alternative Protein and Vegetarian Options

chicken skewers with vegetables

When it comes to skewered Thai recipes, there are numerous alternatives to traditional meat options like chicken, pork, and Thai beef skewers. 

For vegetarians and those seeking plant-based protein sources, the following choices are not only delicious but also packed with protein.

  • Tofu: Tofu is a versatile and popular choice for vegetarian Thai skewers. It absorbs the flavors of marinades and seasonings, making it an excellent canvas for Thai spices. A 3-ounce serving of tofu provides 9 grams of protein, making it a nutritious alternative to meat.
  • Tempeh: Another soy-based option, tempeh offers a firmer texture compared to tofu and is known for its nutty flavor. It can be sliced into pieces and threaded onto skewers, offering a good source of plant-based protein.
  • Seitan: Made from wheat gluten, seitan offers a meaty texture and is often used as a meat substitute in various cuisines. While not suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, it can be a high-protein option for other vegetarians.

Here are some recipe ideas for vegetarian and vegan skewers:

  • Vegan Peanut Satay Skewers: If you can’t have the authentic chicken satay, you can choose your preferred plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, cut into cubes, and marinate in a mixture of coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, and Thai spices for at least an hour. Thread onto skewers and grill or bake until golden and cooked through.
  • Spicy Thai-Style Grilled Veggie Skewers: Marinate vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onion in a blend of soy sauce, lime juice, and various spices for an hour. Thread the veggies onto metal or soaked wooden skewers, then grill for 12-15 minutes, turning frequently for even browning.

While these options cater to vegetarian and vegan dietary preferences, those who prefer meat can continue to enjoy skewered Thai recipes made with chicken, pork, or beef. 

The key is to use quality ingredients and flavorful marinades that highlight the distinct aromatic profile of Thai cuisine.

All of these products can be bought using Amazon’s affiliate links with Whole Foods.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

cucumbers and chicken skewers

Skewered Thai recipes are perfect as appetizers or party finger foods, due to their delicious and convenient nature. 

When serving skewers as the main course, it’s a good idea to present them alongside some staple Thai side dishes to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Rice is a staple in Thai cuisine, and skewered dishes can be beautifully complemented by different types of rice. 

Jasmine rice, with its soft and slightly sticky texture, is a popular choice. 

It has a subtle floral aroma that doesn’t overpower the flavors of your skewered dishes, making it an excellent option for a side dish.

If you’re looking to elevate the dining experience, consider pairing skewers with Thai coconut rice. 

This dish is prepared by simmering jasmine rice in a mixture of coconut milk and water, giving it a rich and creamy flavor that enhances the taste of grilled meat or vegetables.

Here are some other side dish suggestions to consider when serving skewered Thai recipes:

  • Noodles: Rice noodles or egg noodles can be a filling and satisfying complement to skewers, either tossed in a light sauce or served with a flavorful dipping sauce on the side.
  • Salads: A fresh Thai-inspired salad with crisp vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing can help to balance the rich flavors of skewered meats or veggies.
  • Stir-fried vegetables: A simple stir-fry of mixed vegetables with some Thai spices can be a colorful and nutritious addition to your easy meal.

Final Thoughts

When planning a party, skewered Thai recipes can be served as appetizers, allowing guests to mingle and enjoy the flavors while maintaining a casual atmosphere. 

Pair skewers with a variety of dipping sauces, such as peanut satay sauce (or Thai peanut sauce), spicy Thai chili sauce, or a tangy tamarind-based sauce. 

Additionally, try dipping your piece of pork or chicken into a large bowl of some sweet chili sauce for an interestingly tasty contrast in flavors.  

Grab a cold beer to accompany your warm skewers. 

This will add an interactive element to the dining experience and cater to a range of taste preferences.

Remember to keep the presentation simple and elegant, allowing the skewers and accompanying dishes to shine. 

By considering these serving suggestions and pairings, you can create  memorable and delicious skewered Thai food for your guests to enjoy the next time they come knocking at your door.

skewered thai recipe Pinterest image

Skewered Thai Recipe

chicken skewers with vegetables

Skewered Thai recipes are a popular culinary delight, reflecting the diverse and vibrant flavors found across Thailand's rich culinary landscape. 

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

Marinade

  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon minced ginger
  • 3 cloves minced garlic
  • Zest and juice of 1 lime
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves
  • 1 to 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips or bite-sized pieces
  • Wooden or metal skewers (pre-soaked in water for 30 minutes if using wooden skewers)
  • 1 tablespoons vegetable oil for grilling

Instructions

  1. Combine all of the marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl, whisking well to create a smooth and flavorful marinade.
  2. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving some space for easy handling when grilling. 
  3. Preheat your grill pan or oven (you can use either a charcoal grill, broil, or barbecue setting in the oven) at medium-high heat and cook the skewers for about 3-4 minutes per side, until the chicken is well charred by the hot coals on the gas grill and cooked through.
  4. You’ll be able to tell this by looking at the grill marks on the small pieces of meat on the bamboo skewers. 
  5. For any remaining marinade that you might have left, make sure to pour it into an airtight container and place it in the fridge or store it at room temperature. 

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