Delicious Thai Curry Chicken Skewers Recipe

Thai Curry Chicken Skewers are an exquisite and flavorful dish that brings together the zest of Thai spices with tender pieces of chicken. This dish is perfect for grilling, offering a smoky finish while maintaining a rich and creamy curry marinade that adds a delectable layer of flavor to the chicken. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or preparing a meal for the family, these skewers will leave everyone craving more.

This recipe combines a variety of ingredients commonly found in Thai cuisine, such as coconut milk, curry paste, lime, and fish sauce. The creamy coconut milk blends with the spices to create a perfect marinade that infuses the chicken with mouthwatering flavor. Additionally, the skewering method allows the chicken to cook evenly, ensuring that each bite is as juicy and tender as the last.

The key to achieving the perfect Thai Curry Chicken Skewers lies in the preparation and marination process. Marinating the chicken for several hours allows the flavors to really soak in, which results in a more complex taste. Additionally, grilling the skewers over high heat gives them a nice sear and caramelizes the marinade, enhancing the overall flavor profile. These skewers can be served as a main dish or a tasty appetizer at any gathering. Pair them with a cool cucumber salad or a bowl of jasmine rice for a complete meal that packs a punch of flavor.

Ingredients 

For these Thai Curry Chicken Skewers, you’ll need a variety of ingredients to create that signature Thai flavor profile. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to gather:

  1. Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe because they remain tender and juicy when grilled. However, chicken breasts can also be used if preferred, though they may be a bit drier.
  2. Coconut Milk – This creamy, rich ingredient adds a subtle sweetness and is essential for the marinade. It helps to balance the heat from the curry paste and provides a silky texture to the dish.
  3. Red Curry Paste – This is the base of the curry flavor. Red curry paste is spicy and aromatic, providing the dish with its signature warmth. If you prefer a milder version, you can adjust the amount of curry paste to taste.
  4. Garlic – Fresh garlic cloves are finely minced to enhance the dish’s depth of flavor. Garlic gives an extra kick to the marinade and complements the curry spices beautifully.
  5. Ginger – Freshly grated ginger is another key ingredient that adds a slight zing to the marinade. Ginger pairs well with garlic and the curry paste for a balanced flavor profile.
  6. Lime Juice – Fresh lime juice adds acidity to the dish, which helps to cut through the richness of the coconut milk. The citrus flavor brightens the overall taste.
  7. Fish Sauce – A staple in Thai cuisine, fish sauce provides a salty umami depth to the marinade, making the skewers even more savory.
  8. Brown Sugar – A small amount of brown sugar adds sweetness to the marinade, balancing the salty and spicy components.
  9. Skewers – Wooden or metal skewers work well for grilling. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill

Preparation 

Preparing Thai Curry Chicken Skewers is simple and quick, but the key to achieving great flavor lies in the marination process. Follow these steps to ensure your skewers are bursting with authentic Thai taste:

  1. Prepare the chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking. If you’re using chicken breasts, slice them into thinner strips to allow for better absorption of the marinade.
  2. Make the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine coconut milk, red curry paste, garlic, ginger, lime juice, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir the ingredients together until the curry paste and sugar are fully dissolved in the coconut milk. This creates a thick, fragrant marinade with a balanced mix of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors. If you prefer a spicier marinade, you can add a chopped red chili pepper or more curry paste to taste.
  3. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the top. Make sure all the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or for best results, overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. This marination time allows the spices to infuse the chicken thoroughly, resulting in a rich taste with every bite.
  4. Preheat the grill: While the chicken marinates, prepare your grill or grill pan. Preheat it to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
  5. Skewer the chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, making sure to leave a small gap between each piece. This ensures even grilling. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them beforehand to avoid burning.
  6. Grill the skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is slightly charred on the outside. Make sure to turn the skewers occasionally to avoid burning. The skewers are ready when they have a beautiful golden brown color and the chicken is fully cooked through.

Mistakes to Avoid

While making Thai Curry Chicken Skewers is relatively straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that can hinder your results. Here’s what to watch out for to ensure a perfect outcome:

  1. Not marinating long enough: One of the most important aspects of this recipe is the marinade. If you don’t allow the chicken enough time to soak in the flavors, the dish will lack depth. Aim to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but ideally, allow it to sit in the fridge overnight. Marinating for a longer period ensures the spices penetrate the chicken thoroughly.
  2. Overcrowding the skewers: It’s tempting to fit as much chicken onto the skewers as possible, but overcrowding can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly. Leave a small gap between each piece of chicken on the skewer to allow air to circulate and heat to penetrate the meat properly. This helps avoid uneven cooking, with some pieces being undercooked while others are overdone.
  3. Grilling on too high heat: While high heat is necessary for achieving a beautiful sear on the chicken, grilling at excessively high temperatures can cause the marinade to burn before the chicken is fully cooked. It’s crucial to find the right balance. Medium-high heat is ideal for cooking these skewers evenly without burning them.
  4. Not monitoring the cooking time: Chicken can go from perfectly cooked to overdone in a matter of minutes. It’s important to monitor the skewers closely to prevent overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—165°F (75°C) is the safe internal temperature for cooked chicken.
  5. Skipping the soaking of wooden skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken on. This prevents the skewers from burning or catching fire while grilling.
  6. Not preparing a dipping sauce: While the skewers are flavorful on their own, a tangy dipping sauce like a peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce can elevate the dish further. Don’t skip this step—it adds an extra layer of flavor and brings the dish together.

Ingredient Alternatives 

If you’re looking to make adjustments or substitutions to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability, there are several great alternatives you can use in this recipe. Here are some ideas:

  1. Chicken – While chicken thighs are the most recommended cut for this recipe due to their moisture and tenderness when grilled, you can easily substitute them with chicken breasts, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. If you choose tofu, make sure to press it to remove excess moisture and cut it into cubes before marinating.
  2. Coconut Milk – If you’re avoiding coconut milk due to allergies or dislike of its flavor, you can swap it out for a different creamy base. Almond milk or soy milk with a spoonful of tahini or cashew cream can be used as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor will be different, but it will still create a nice creamy texture for the marinade.
  3. Red Curry Paste – Red curry paste is an essential flavor in this dish, but if you can’t find it or prefer a milder flavor, you can use yellow curry paste or green curry paste. Yellow curry paste tends to be less spicy, while green curry paste has a slightly sharper flavor. If you want to make your own, you can blend garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and other spices to create a homemade curry paste.
  4. Fish Sauce – Fish sauce is a classic ingredient in Thai cuisine that adds umami and depth. However, if you are avoiding it due to dietary restrictions (such as a vegetarian or vegan diet), you can substitute it with soy sauce or tamari for a similar salty and savory taste.
  5. Brown Sugar – For a healthier alternative, you can use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar. Both options provide a natural sweetness that complements the curry flavor. Alternatively, coconut sugar can be used for a more tropical twist.
  6. Lime Juice – If you don’t have fresh lime on hand, lemon juice can be a suitable alternative. It will provide a similar citrusy tartness, though lime juice is typically more aromatic and fragrant. You can also use apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick.
  7. Skewers – If you don’t have skewers available, you can grill the marinated chicken directly on the grill or use a grill basket. Both methods will still produce a delicious result, though skewers make for a more visually appealing presentation.

Tips and Tricks 

For the best results when making Thai Curry Chicken Skewers, here are some tips and tricks that will elevate your dish:

  1. Marinate overnight for better flavor: While marinating for just an hour can work, allowing the chicken to marinate overnight will allow the flavors to deeply infuse the meat. This extended marination time helps develop a richer taste and makes the chicken more flavorful.
  2. Use a grill thermometer: A grill thermometer helps you maintain the correct temperature and prevents overcooking. By sticking to medium-high heat, you ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that perfect sear. This way, you won’t end up with dry, overcooked chicken.
  3. Add a variety of vegetables: While the skewers are fantastic on their own, you can enhance the dish by adding colorful vegetables like bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini. Simply cut the vegetables into similar sizes as the chicken and thread them onto the skewers along with the chicken. This not only adds flavor but also makes the skewers more visually appealing.
  4. Baste with extra marinade: For extra flavor, reserve some of the marinade before adding it to the chicken. Brush the skewers with this reserved marinade during grilling to add more depth to the flavor. This technique also helps keep the chicken moist and prevents it from drying out.
  5. Serve with a dipping sauce: A delicious dipping sauce can take these skewers to the next level. Try pairing them with a tangy peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a cucumber yogurt dip for a refreshing balance to the spicy curry.
  6. Soak skewers in water: If you’re using wooden skewers, always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using them. This prevents them from catching fire on the grill and ensures they remain intact during cooking.
  7. Use fresh herbs: Garnish your skewers with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil just before serving. These herbs add a burst of freshness and make the dish even more aromatic.
  8. Serve with a side of rice: These Thai Curry Chicken Skewers pair beautifully with a side of steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice. The rice helps to balance the spiciness of the skewers and absorbs any extra marinade that falls off during grilling.
  9. Rest the skewers: After grilling, allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the chicken, making it even more tender and flavorful.

Suggestions 

If you’re looking for ways to customize your Thai Curry Chicken Skewers or create a more well-rounded meal, here are some suggestions that you can try:

  1. Pair with a Thai-inspired salad: To complement the flavors of the skewers, consider serving them alongside a fresh Thai-inspired salad. A simple cucumber and carrot slaw with a tangy lime dressing or a green papaya salad would add a refreshing crunch and help balance the richness of the coconut milk and curry paste.
  2. Serve with a side of grilled pineapple: Grilled pineapple adds a sweet and slightly smoky element to the meal that pairs wonderfully with the savory Thai flavors. Cut the pineapple into rings or wedges, brush with a little honey and lime juice, and grill alongside your skewers for a tropical twist.
  3. Add a drizzle of coconut cream: For extra creaminess, drizzle some thick coconut cream over the skewers just before serving. This adds a velvety richness that enhances the coconut flavor in the marinade, making the skewers even more indulgent.
  4. Make it a full meal with rice noodles: Instead of serving the skewers with rice, you can pair them with rice noodles for a more hearty meal. Cook the noodles and toss them in a light sesame oil and soy sauce dressing before serving with the skewers for a satisfying and flavorful combination.
  5. Try using other proteins: If you prefer something other than chicken, consider using shrimp or beef for the skewers. Shrimp cooks quickly and absorbs the marinade beautifully, while beef will offer a heartier, more robust flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked properly.
  6. Make it spicy: If you love spicy food, kick up the heat by adding extra chili peppers to the marinade or topping the finished skewers with a spicy sriracha sauce. This adds a layer of bold, fiery heat that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the coconut milk and brown sugar.
  7. Create a dipping platter: For a more interactive meal, serve the skewers on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces. Options like peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a homemade garlic-lime dipping sauce will allow your guests to customize their flavors and create their own ideal combination.
  8. Try grilled flatbread on the side: Grilled flatbread or naan would be a great accompaniment to the skewers. You can use the flatbread to wrap the chicken, vegetables, and any dipping sauce, creating a delicious handheld meal.

FAQ 

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Thai Curry Chicken Skewers that may help clarify any doubts you may have:

  1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
    Yes, you can use chicken breast if you prefer. Chicken thighs are typically recommended because they are juicier and more flavorful, but chicken breast works just fine. Keep in mind that breast meat can dry out more easily, so be sure not to overcook it.
  2. How long should I marinate the chicken?
    For the best flavor, it’s ideal to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but marinating it overnight will give you the most flavorful results. The longer the chicken marinates, the more it will absorb the flavors of the curry paste and coconut milk.
  3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
    Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or seitan. Be sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating, and cut it into chunks to ensure it absorbs the marinade well.
  4. What’s the best way to grill the skewers?
    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and be sure to oil the grates to prevent the skewers from sticking. Grill the skewers for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is fully cooked. Turn the skewers occasionally for even grilling.
  5. Can I cook these skewers in the oven?
    Yes, you can bake these skewers in the oven if you don’t have access to a grill. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time.
  6. Can I use a different curry paste?
    Yes, you can use yellow or green curry paste if you prefer a milder flavor or want to experiment with different variations. Green curry paste tends to be spicier, while yellow curry paste has a more subtle, earthy flavor.
  7. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
    The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Alternatively, you can check for doneness by cutting into a piece of chicken; it should be opaque and the juices should run clear.
  8. What dipping sauces go best with these skewers?
    Peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or a simple garlic-lime dipping sauce would pair beautifully with these skewers. You can also make a tangy yogurt-based sauce or even a creamy coconut dipping sauce to add a unique flavor combination.
  9. Can I prepare these skewers in advance?
    Yes, you can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers a day ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This will save you time on the day of your meal.

Conclusion 

Thai Curry Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and versatile dish that brings the delicious flavors of Thai cuisine right to your table. With a creamy, aromatic marinade made from coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, and spices, these skewers deliver a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors. Whether you’re grilling for a weeknight dinner, a weekend barbecue, or serving them at a party, these skewers are sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

The recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the level of spice, choose different proteins, and even add a variety of vegetables to the skewers. The marinade can be prepared in advance, and the chicken can be marinated overnight for the deepest flavor. Once grilled, the skewers are perfect when paired with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing Thai salad, making them a well-rounded meal.

By following the tips and tricks provided, such as marinating the chicken for the optimal amount of time and using a grill thermometer, you ensure that your skewers turn out tender and flavorful every time. Plus, with the suggested ingredient alternatives and substitutions, you can easily accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions without compromising on taste.

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Delicious Thai Curry Chicken Skewers Recipe


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  • Author: Emilline Labrita

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp red curry paste
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)

Optional garnishes:

  • Fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • Lime wedges
  • Chili flakes for extra spice

Instructions

  • In a bowl, combine the coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and olive oil. Stir well until the curry paste and sugar are fully dissolved into the coconut milk.
  • Season the chicken thighs with a pinch of salt and pepper, then add them to the marinade. Toss the chicken pieces well to coat, making sure they are fully covered in the marinade.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse into the chicken.
  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.
  • Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
  • Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • Once grilled, remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes.
  • Serve the Thai curry chicken skewers with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and chili flakes for extra flavor, if desired.

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