These Thai Peanut Marinated Chicken Skewers are packed with rich, vibrant flavors and a hint of spice. A delicious fusion of savory soy sauce, nutty peanut butter, tangy lime, and aromatic ginger creates a marinade that infuses the chicken with deep flavor. Grilled to perfection and topped with fresh cilantro, these skewers offer a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy tastes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold, Authentic Flavor: The peanut marinade blends traditional Thai ingredients for an irresistible taste.
Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and fast cooking make this ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve with rice, salad, or in wraps for a variety of meal ideas.
Healthy and Lean: Uses lean chicken breast and wholesome ingredients for a lighter grilled dish.
Grill or Stove Friendly: Can be cooked on an outdoor grill or indoor grill pan.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
1/4 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Skewers (wooden or metal)
Directions
In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, chili flakes (if using), and lime juice until smooth and fully combined.
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss well to coat them evenly in the marinade.
Cover and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
Grill the chicken skewers for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and has grill marks.
Remove from the grill, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Servings and Timing
Yield: 4 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Marination Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marination)
Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per serving
Variations
Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seed butter or tahini for peanut butter.
Spicy Kick: Add more chili flakes or a spoon of sriracha for extra heat.
Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, adjusting grill time accordingly.
Coconut Twist: Add a splash of coconut milk to the marinade for creamier texture and tropical flavor.
Skewer Additions: Include bell peppers, onions, or pineapple chunks on the skewers for extra color and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked skewers in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For best results, reheat on a grill or stovetop to preserve texture.
FAQs
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, the marinade can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using.
What type of peanut butter works best?
Both smooth and crunchy peanut butter work well, depending on your texture preference. Avoid varieties with added sugar or flavoring.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes is recommended, but marinating for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavor even more.
Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?
Yes, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
Are these skewers spicy?
They are mildly spicy due to the optional chili flakes. Adjust the spice level to your taste by adding more or omitting them.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative and may be even more flavorful and juicy.
Do I need to soak metal skewers?
No, soaking is only necessary for wooden skewers to prevent burning during grilling.
What sides pair well with these skewers?
Serve with jasmine rice, coconut rice, cucumber salad, or a simple slaw for a balanced meal.
Can I use the marinade as a dipping sauce?
No, because it has raw chicken juices. If desired, reserve some marinade before adding the chicken and boil it before serving as a sauce.
How do I keep the chicken juicy?
Avoid overcooking and use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption while staying moist.
Conclusion
Thai Peanut Marinated Chicken Skewers offer a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for both casual dinners and entertaining guests. With a savory-sweet marinade and vibrant herbs, they’re sure to become a favorite. Pair them with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious taste of Thai-inspired cuisine in every bite.
Thai Peanut Marinated Chicken Skewers with a Sweet and Savory Twist
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4-servings
Description
These Thai Peanut Marinated Chicken Skewers are bursting with flavor from a sweet and savory peanut sauce infused with garlic, ginger, and lime. Perfectly grilled and topped with fresh cilantro, they’re a quick and delicious dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients
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1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
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1/4 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
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2 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon honey
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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2 teaspoons sesame oil
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
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1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
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Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
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Make the Marinade:
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In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, chili flakes (if using), and lime juice until smooth.
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Marinate the Chicken:
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Add chicken cubes to the marinade, toss to coat.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours).
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Prepare the Skewers:
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Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high.
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Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving space between pieces.
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Grill the Skewers:
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Grill for 5–7 minutes per side until chicken is fully cooked and nicely charred.
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Serve:
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Remove from grill, garnish with chopped cilantro.
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Serve with rice or a crunchy salad.
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Notes
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Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
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Add chopped peanuts or green onions for extra texture.
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Can be baked or air-fried if a grill is not available.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai-Inspired