Coconut Cream Glazed Chicken Skewers with Optional Peanut Sauce -

Chicken skewers are a popular dish enjoyed around the world, known for their simplicity and versatility. This recipe takes the classic chicken skewer to a new level by incorporating a rich coconut cream glaze that adds a unique, tropical twist. The marinade, featuring a blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and spices, infuses the chicken with deep, savory flavors, while the coconut cream glaze provides a sweet and sticky finish that is utterly irresistible. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a grill pan indoors, these skewers are sure to be a hit with family and friends. The addition of an optional peanut sauce elevates the dish even further, offering a creamy, nutty dipping option that enhances the overall experience.

Ingredients:

→ Chicken and Marinade

1 kg boneless chicken thighs or drumsticks, cut into 2.5 cm pieces
4-5 slices fresh ginger (approximately 2 tablespoons), finely chopped
2 cloves garlic (approximately 1.5 tablespoons), finely chopped
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
2 tablespoons coconut cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon oyster sauce

→ Coconut Cream Glaze

6 tablespoons coconut cream
1.5 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon light soy sauce

→ Simple Peanut Sauce (Optional)

2 tablespoons coconut cream
60 ml natural unsweetened peanut butter
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey
2 teaspoons light soy sauce
2-3 tablespoons water, as needed
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
1 teaspoon chili oil (optional)
Crushed roasted peanuts, for garnish (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Sauce (Optional).

In a small bowl, combine coconut cream, peanut butter, rice vinegar, red curry paste, maple syrup, and soy sauce. Mix thoroughly until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired thickness. If desired, stir in sesame oil and chili oil for added flavor and heat. Garnish with crushed peanuts. Set aside. This sauce adds a creamy, nutty, and slightly spicy element that pairs wonderfully with the coconut-glazed chicken. The red curry paste provides a subtle warmth, while the rice vinegar balances the sweetness of the maple syrup, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the amount of chili oil to suit your spice preference.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken.

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. Cut the chicken into 2.5 cm cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl. This size ensures even cooking and easy threading onto skewers. Finely chop the ginger and garlic, then add them to the chicken. These aromatics infuse the chicken with a fragrant, savory flavor. In the same bowl, add light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, coconut cream, sugar, and oyster sauce. Mix thoroughly, ensuring that the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable bag. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken deeply. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will become.

Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Cream Glaze.

In a small bowl, combine coconut cream, honey, and light soy sauce. Whisk together until well combined. Set aside for glazing the chicken skewers during the final stage of grilling. This glaze is what gives the skewers their signature sweet and sticky finish. The honey adds a natural sweetness, while the soy sauce provides a touch of umami, balancing the flavors perfectly. The coconut cream contributes to the rich, creamy texture of the glaze, making each bite a delightful experience.

Step 4: Thread the Chicken onto Skewers.

Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the chicken to come to room temperature, ensuring more even cooking. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers securely, ensuring minimal loose ends to prevent burning. Try to pack the chicken pieces closely together on the skewer to help them retain moisture during grilling. Ensure that the skewers are sturdy enough to hold the chicken without bending or breaking.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken Skewers.

Preheat your charcoal or gas grill to approximately 260°C (500°F). This high heat will help to sear the chicken, locking in the juices and creating a beautiful caramelized crust. Place the skewers over direct heat and cook, turning every 2-3 minutes for a total of 15-18 minutes, until the meat is evenly browned and just cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 74°C (165°F). This ensures that the chicken is safe to eat.

Step 6: Glaze the Chicken Skewers.

Brush the coconut cream glaze over the cooked skewers, flipping every minute and repeating 2-3 times to achieve a caramelized, sticky finish. The heat from the grill will cause the glaze to bubble and caramelize, creating a beautiful, glossy coating on the chicken. Be careful not to burn the glaze; keep a close eye on the skewers and adjust the heat as needed.

Step 7: Serve the Chicken Skewers.

Arrange the hot skewers on a platter over fresh green lettuce leaves. The lettuce leaves add a pop of color and freshness to the presentation. Accompany with the prepared peanut sauce for dipping or to make lettuce wraps. The peanut sauce adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, making these skewers a versatile and satisfying dish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

COOKING Rating:

Ease of Preparation: Medium
Flavor Complexity: High
Crowd-Pleasing Factor: High

Serving Suggestions:

Serve as an appetizer at a barbecue or party.
Serve as a main course with rice, quinoa, or couscous.
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
Serve with a fresh salad for a light and refreshing meal.
Serve with the optional peanut sauce for dipping or drizzling.
Create lettuce wraps by wrapping the chicken skewers in lettuce leaves with a dollop of peanut sauce and some fresh herbs.

Tips:

For best results, marinate the chicken overnight.
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
Adjust the amount of chili oil in the peanut sauce to suit your spice preference.
If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the skewers in a grill pan or under the broiler.
Garnish with crushed roasted peanuts for added flavor and texture.
Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)

Cook Time: 15-18 minutes

Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes (plus marinating time)

Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximate)

Calories: 350
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 500mg

Conclusion

These Coconut Cream Glazed Chicken Skewers are a delightful and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of the savory marinade, the sweet coconut cream glaze, and the optional peanut sauce creates a taste sensation that is sure to impress. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or simply looking for a delicious and easy meal, these skewers are a fantastic choice. Enjoy the process of marinating, grilling, and glazing, and savor the delicious results. This recipe is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients are combined with care and creativity.

Questions and Answers about this recipe:

Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs or drumsticks?

A: Yes, you can use chicken breast, but keep in mind that chicken breast tends to dry out more easily than chicken thighs or drumsticks. If using chicken breast, be sure to cut it into evenly sized pieces and avoid overcooking it on the grill. You might also consider marinating it for a longer period to help keep it moist.

Q2: Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! The peanut sauce can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together even more, resulting in a richer, more flavorful sauce. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Q3: Can I use a different type of sweetener in the coconut cream glaze?

A: Yes, you can substitute the honey in the coconut cream glaze with other sweeteners such as maple syrup, agave nectar, or even brown sugar. Each sweetener will impart a slightly different flavor to the glaze, so experiment to find your favorite. If using brown sugar, make sure it dissolves completely into the coconut cream.

Q4: How can I prevent the wooden skewers from burning on the grill?

A: To prevent the wooden skewers from burning, it’s essential to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken. This helps to keep them moist and prevents them from catching fire on the hot grill. You can also wrap the exposed ends of the skewers in aluminum foil to further protect them from the heat.

Q5: Can I bake these chicken skewers in the oven instead of grilling them?

A: Yes, you can bake these chicken skewers in the oven. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the threaded skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). Be sure to flip the skewers halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Brush with the coconut cream glaze during the last few minutes of baking to achieve a caramelized finish.