Save Tender chicken skewers marinated in a flavorful, spicy peanut sauce and grilled to perfection. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a delicious appetizer.
This recipe was a hit at my last summer barbecue where everyone asked for seconds and the marinade kept the chicken tender and juicy.
Ingredients
- Chicken Skewers: 600 g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 2.5 cm (1-inch) cubes, 8 wooden or metal skewers
- Spicy Peanut Marinade: 4 tbsp creamy peanut butter, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime), 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste), 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated, 2 tbsp vegetable oil, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp ground cumin, 2 tbsp water
- Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped roasted peanuts, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using, to prevent burning.
- Step 2:
- In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, sriracha, garlic, ginger, vegetable oil, coriander, cumin, and water until smooth.
- Step 3:
- Reserve 3 tablespoons of marinade for serving.
- Step 4:
- Add chicken cubes to the remaining marinade, toss well, and cover. Marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Step 5:
- Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
- Step 6:
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Oil the grates lightly.
- Step 7:
- Grill skewers for 12–15 minutes, turning every few minutes, until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Step 8:
- Brush with reserved marinade during the last minute of grilling.
- Step 9:
- Remove from grill, garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.
Save My family loves gathering around the grill to eat these skewers fresh off the heat, especially with fresh lime and a cold drink.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or warm flatbread for a full meal.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains peanuts and soy. Use tamari for gluten-free option if needed.
Storage Tips
Leftover skewers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently to retain moisture.
Save This recipe perfectly balances bold flavors with ease of preparation, making it a favorite for any grill day.
Kitchen Guide
- → What type of chicken works best for skewers?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts cut into uniform 1-inch cubes provide the best texture and cook evenly on the grill.
- → How long should the chicken marinate?
Marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour allows the flavors of the spicy peanut sauce to fully penetrate, ensuring juicy and flavorful bites.
- → Can I use a substitute for peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter can be used as an alternative to maintain a creamy texture with a slightly different nutty flavor.
- → How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken to avoid burning during grilling.
- → What are good side options to serve with this dish?
Jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or flatbread complement the spicy peanut chicken skewers and balance the flavors well.
- → Can I increase the spice level?
Adjust the heat by adding more sriracha or incorporating crushed red pepper flakes into the marinade.