Thai Coconut Chili Chicken Skewers
Thai Coconut Chili Chicken Skewers
Finding a recipe that’s tasty, easy, and healthy is like discovering the Holy Grail; once you have it, you hold onto it forever. These chicken skewers are our culinary grail—they taste amazing, require minimal prep, and are incredibly healthy! At under 250 calories per serving, these skewers boast a delightful sweetness from the coconut milk and a rich, full flavor from an array of spices. You can add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or leave them out if you prefer a milder taste. Either way, you’ll be going back for seconds without a hint of guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor while keeping it juicy and tender. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be adjusted to your spice preference. Whether you’re a spice lover or prefer something milder, these skewers are sure to please your taste buds!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Re-sealable plastic bag
- Grill or griddle
- Skewers
Ingredients
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-2-inch cubes
- 2 limes, juiced and zested
- 1 cup light coconut milk
- 1 1/2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon shallots, chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4-1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, cumin, coriander, brown sugar, garlic powder, chili flakes, shallots, curry powder, soy sauce, ginger, lime juice, and zest, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Transfer the mixture to a large, re-sealable plastic bag and add the cubed chicken.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for 2-4 hours or overnight for best results.
- Once the chicken has marinated, thread the meat onto skewers and set the remaining marinade aside.
- Heat your grill or griddle to medium-high heat and cook skewers, rotating frequently and brushing with marinade, until completely cooked through.
- Transfer skewers to serving plates, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately!
Tips for Success
- For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high to achieve a nice char on the chicken.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a different flavor profile, try adding a tablespoon of fish sauce to the marinade.
- Serve with a side of jasmine rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Carbs: 6.4 g
- Fat: 5.4 g
- Protein: 26.8 g
- Sodium: 761.2 mg
- Sugar: 2.6 g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier than breasts.
What if I don’t have a grill? A stovetop griddle or even a broiler will work as alternatives.
How spicy are these skewers? The spiciness can be adjusted to your liking by altering the amount of red pepper flakes.
Conclusion
These Thai Coconut Chili Chicken Skewers are a delightful blend of flavors and a surefire way to impress your family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experiences and any tweaks you make. Happy grilling!
