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 brings back memories of warm summer evenings grilling with friends and family, enjoying flavorful bites and laughter.
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 Sharing these skewers always brings smiles around our family table and sparks fun conversations about each bite.
Notes
Substitute almond butter for peanut butter if preferred. Pairs well with a light lager or Riesling.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, knife and cutting board, grill or grill pan, skewers, tongs
Allergen Information
Contains peanuts and soy (soy sauce). May contain gluten (soy sauce use tamari for gluten-free). Double-check all ingredient labels to ensure allergen safety.
Save These skewers are perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Common recipe questions
- → How long should the chicken marinate for best flavor?
Marinating the chicken for at least one hour allows the peanut sauce and spices to deeply infuse the meat, ensuring tender and flavorful bites.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken breasts can be used; just be careful not to overcook as they can dry out more easily than thighs.
- → What are good side dishes to serve with these skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with jasmine rice, fresh cucumber salad, or warm flatbreads to complement the rich flavors.
- → How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning on the grill?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to help prevent them from catching fire.
- → Can I adjust the spice level in the marinade?
Absolutely, increase or reduce the sriracha or chili garlic sauce to match your preferred heat level, and add red pepper flakes for extra kick.
- → Is there a suitable substitute for peanut butter?
Almond butter can be used as a substitute if preferred, offering a different nutty flavor while maintaining creaminess.