Name: Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup coconut milk; 2 stalks lemongrass (finely chopped); ⅓ cup fresh cilantro (chopped); 3 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tsp red chili flakes; 2 tbsp fish sauce; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1.5 lbs boneless (skinless chicken thighs); 2 red bell peppers (chunked); 1 large red onion (chunked); 2 cups pineapple chunks; 10 –12 skewers

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I can’t get enough of these Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers Recipe! Every time I make them, I’m transported straight to the vibrant streets of Thailand. The chicken is unbelievably juicy, the sweet and tangy pineapple pairs perfectly, and the flavors are rich and balanced with every bite.

Mixing up the marinade is always my favorite part; it’s fragrant, bold, and utterly irresistible! Whether for a family dinner or a BBQ with friends, this dish has become my go-to recipe, and I know you’re going to fall in love with it too.

Fresh, Flavorful Ingredients

These simple ingredients come together for big, bold flavors.

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1.5 lbs): These stay juicier than breasts, perfect for grilling.
Coconut milk (1 cup): Adds creamy richness to the marinade and enhances the Thai-inspired flavors.
Lemongrass (2 stalks, finely chopped): Brings citrusy brightness to the dish.
Fresh cilantro (1/3 cup, chopped): For herbal, fresh notes that tie the marinade together.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
Red chili flakes (1 teaspoon): A mild kick of heat that can be adjusted to taste.
Fish sauce (2 tablespoons): Umami-packed and essential for authentic Thai flavor.
Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Balances the tangy, savory notes with a touch of sweetness.
Lime juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens up the marinade with a zingy freshness.
Bamboo or metal skewers (10-12): For threading those delicious chicken and veggie combos.
Red bell peppers (2, cut into chunks): Sweet and crunchy for perfect skewer bites.
Red onion (1 large, cut into chunks): Adds sharpness and caramelizes beautifully when grilled.
Pineapple chunks (2 cups): For sweetness and a tropical twist.

Note: This recipe makes 4 servings, which is great for a family dinner or a small gathering.

Fun Customizations to Suit Your Style

This recipe is as flexible as it is flavorful! Here are ideas for mixing things up.

Meatless Option: Substitute tofu or cauliflower for the chicken for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
Adjust the Spice Level: Reduce or up the red chili flakes depending on your heat tolerance.
Sweeter Twist: Swap brown sugar for honey or coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness.
Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to the skewers for added color and nutrients.
Dipping Sauces: Serve with a creamy peanut sauce or a spicy chili sauce for dipping! If you’re a fan of grilled chicken, you might also enjoy our Peri Peri Grilled Chicken Skewers Recipe for a spicy kick.

Cooking Time

Here’s how long you’ll need to whip up this flavorful dish.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Tools to Make This Recipe Easy

Having the right tools on hand makes this dish a breeze to prepare!

Food processor or blender: To quickly blend the marinade.
Bamboo or metal skewers: For threading the chicken and veggies. Remember to soak bamboo skewers in water beforehand!
Grill or grill pan: To get those beautifully charred, smoky flavors.
Mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken evenly.

How to Make Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers?

Making these chicken skewers is fun and simple, and the results are always amazing.

Step 1: Whip Up the Marinade

Start by blending the marinade ingredients. This includes coconut milk, lemongrass, cilantro, garlic, red chili flakes, fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice. Blend until smooth and fragrant. The mixture will be rich and slightly thick, perfect for coating the chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized chunks. Combine the chicken with the marinade in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Make sure the chicken is fully coated, then refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. If you have time, marinate overnight for even deeper flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Prepare your skewers by threading the marinated chicken pieces alternately with chunks of red bell pepper, onion, and pineapple. The vibrant colors make the skewers as beautiful as they are tasty! Keep the pieces evenly sized for uniform cooking.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill, turning occasionally for even cooking. Grill for about 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Remove the skewers from the grill and arrange them on a platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a bright, zesty finish. Serve immediately while they’re hot and fresh! You can also enjoy similar recipes like the Hot Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers Recipe for a different twist on skewers.

Extra Tips for Even Better Results

After making this recipe a few times, I’ve discovered some pro tips to maximize flavor and ease.

Marinate Longer: If possible, marinate overnight for the juiciest, most flavorful chicken.
Brush While Grilling: Use leftover marinade to baste the skewers as they cook for more caramelized flavor.
Uniform Pieces: Keep chicken, veggies, and pineapple chunks roughly the same size for even grilling.
Watch the Heat: Grill over medium heat to avoid burning the marinade before the chicken cooks through.

How to Serve Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers?

These skewers are versatile and look stunning on the table. Serve them over fragrant jasmine rice for an authentic Thai-inspired meal, or pair them with lettuce cups for a lighter, refreshing option. If you’re hosting a gathering, arrange the skewers neatly on a platter with lime wedges, chopped peanuts, and fresh herbs for an eye-catching display. Don’t forget a drizzle of peanut sauce or a side of spicy chili dip to elevate the flavors even more!

Nutritional Information

This dish is packed with protein and flavor while being family-friendly and nutritious. Each serving includes approximately:

Calories: 280
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 15g

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is perfect for prepping in advance or saving leftovers for later!

Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. The skewers can also be assembled ahead of time and covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

Refrigerate: Store cooked skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on a grill or stovetop over low heat to maintain their juicy texture.

Freezing: Freeze the marinated raw chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before assembling and grilling. Cooked skewers also freeze well; just reheat them gently to avoid drying out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

These skewers are bound to become a favorite in your household! Here’s why they stand out.

Quick and Simple: Easy to prep, grill, and serve, making it perfect for weeknights or busy days.
Authentic Flavors: The coconut milk, lime, and lemongrass bring bold, irresistible Thai flavors.
Highly Customizable: Adapt the recipe to fit your diet and flavor preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: Bright, colorful skewers are visually stunning and a hit with guests.
Great Make-Ahead Option: Ideal for meal-prepping or cooking ahead for gatherings.

Fire up the grill and give these vibrant, flavor-packed Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers a try. They’re sure to steal the show at your dinner table! If you’re looking for more lunch ideas, check out our lunch recipes for inspiration.

Check out this video for a clear, step-by-step guide on how to make it from start to finish: