Name: Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers
Prep time: PT-486106H39M30S
Cook time: PT-486106H39M30S
Total time: PT-486106H39M30S
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 kg chicken thighs, cut into bite-size chunks; 1 can (13.5 oz / ~400 ml) coconut milk; 2 Tbsp Thai red curry paste; 2 Tbsp soy sauce; 1 Tbsp fish sauce (or substitute more soy sauce); 2 Tbsp brown sugar or honey; 1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lime (about 2 Tbsp); 6 Tbsp coconut cream (thicker part); 1½ Tbsp honey; 1 tsp soy sauce; ¼ cup natural peanut butter (optional); 2 Tbsp coconut cream (optional); 1 tsp red curry paste (optional); 1 tsp rice vinegar (optional); 2 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional); 2 tsp soy sauce (optional); Water to thin (optional); Optional: sesame or chili oil, crushed peanuts

I’m thrilled to share my take on these juicy, flavorful Thai chicken skewers grilled to perfection. The tender chicken absorbs a creamy coconut marinade, then gets brushed with a sweet glaze and charred over the grill—simple, vibrant, and crowd‑pleasing.

Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how the coconut gives a rich, slightly sweet base while Thai aromatics—ginger, garlic, curry paste—bring bright, savory notes. Grilling adds a smoky edge, and the glaze caramelizes for gorgeous char and flavor. Plus, skewers are great for entertaining or weeknight dinners.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 kg chicken thighs, cut into bite‑size chunks

Marinade

1 can (13.5 oz / ~400 ml) coconut milk
2 Tbsp Thai red curry paste
2 Tbsp soy sauce
1 Tbsp fish sauce (or substitute more soy sauce)
2 Tbsp brown sugar or honey
1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lime (about 2 Tbsp)

Glaze

6 Tbsp coconut cream (thicker part)
1½ Tbsp honey
1 tsp soy sauce

Optional Peanut Sauce

¼ cup natural peanut butter
2 Tbsp coconut cream
1 tsp red curry paste
1 tsp rice vinegar
2 tsp maple syrup or honey
2 tsp soy sauce
Water to thin, as needed
Optional: sesame or chili oil, crushed peanuts

directions

Marinate: Whisk marinade ingredients, reserve ~¼ cup for basting. Toss chicken in marinade, cover, refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.
Prep Skewers: Soak skewers in water 30 min. Thread chicken pieces snugly.
Make Glaze: Whisk coconut cream, honey, soy sauce; set aside.
Grill: Preheat grill to medium‑high. Grill skewers 4–6 min per side, basting with reserved marinade. In last minute, brush on glaze to caramelize.
Make Sauce (optional): Mix peanut sauce ingredients; adjust consistency with water.
Serve: Let skewers rest briefly, then serve hot with lime wedges and peanut sauce if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 12 skewers (serves 4–6); adjust ingredient amounts as needed.
Prep time: 15 min active + marinating
Cook time: ~12 min
Total time: ~2½ – 12 hr (depending on marinating)

Variations

Spicier: Add chili flakes or extra curry paste to taste.
Protein swap: Use chicken breast, pork chunks, tofu, or veggies like bell pepper and zucchini.
Herbaceous twist: Stir chopped cilantro or Thai basil into glaze or sprinkle on top.

storage/reheating

Store cooled skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 175 °C oven for 10 min or until warmed through, or reheat gently on the grill to preserve moisture.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

I usually marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight (up to 12 hours) gives the best flavor.

Can I bake instead of grilling?

Absolutely—I bake at 200 °C for 20–25 minutes, turning once and brushing with glaze for a caramelized finish.

Is it spicy?

This version is mildly spiced. I add extra curry paste or chili flakes if I want more heat.

Can I use chicken breast?

Yes—though I prefer thighs for juiciness. If using breasts, I sometimes brine them first (1½ Tbsp salt in 4 cups water for 1 hr) to prevent dryness.

How do I make it gluten‑free?

Just swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos and use gluten‑free fish sauce.

Conclusion

I adore these Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers—they’re bursting with flavor, easy to prep, and perfect for grilling season. Whether I’m meal‑prepping or hosting friends, they’re always a hit. I hope I’ve inspired you to fire up the grill and enjoy these skewers as much as I do!