There is something irresistibly vibrant and satisfying about the Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Recipe. Imagine juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated in a bold mixture of soy, fish, and oyster sauces, brightened with lime juice and kissed with a spicy punch from fresh Thai bird’s eye chili—all threaded onto skewers and grilled to smoky perfection. The fresh Thai basil adds a unique peppery aroma that perfectly complements the savory and spicy layers, creating an authentic and unforgettable Thai street food experience right in your own kitchen. This recipe is a surefire way to spice up your dinner routine with fresh flavors and colorful presentation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple but crucial in bringing the authentic taste, balanced texture, and vibrant color to your Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Recipe. Each element plays a special role, from the rich umami sauces to the fresh herbs and spicy chili.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: These provide juicy, tender meat that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
- ¼ cup soy sauce: Brings salty depth and enhances the savory flavor of the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce: Adds authentic Thai umami richness and subtle saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Offers a touch of sweetness and complexity to the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the salty and spicy flavors with a gentle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Provides bright acidity to lighten the bold flavors.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and a smooth finish.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the marinade with sharp, pungent warmth.
- 1 small red chili or Thai bird’s eye chili (finely chopped): Packs in the spicy heat—you can adjust it to your preference.
- ½ cup fresh Thai basil leaves (chopped): Delivers that unmistakable peppery and aromatic note that defines this dish.
- Wooden or metal skewers: For threading the chicken and grilling evenly.
- Optional: lime wedges and extra basil for serving: Perfect for freshening up each bite.
How to Make Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Skewers and Marinade
If you’re using wooden skewers, it’s important to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning on the grill. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, sesame oil, garlic, and finely chopped chili. This marinade is a vibrant mix of salty, sweet, tangy, and spicy—all essential layers that build the distinct flavors of the skewer.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Cut the boneless chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and add them to the bowl along with the chopped Thai basil leaves. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in that fragrant marinade. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. To really let those flavors meld beautifully, marinate for at least one hour, though overnight is best if you have the time. This step ensures juicy, flavor-packed bites once grilled.
Step 3: Skewer and Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, which is perfect for creating those lovely char marks and locking in the juices. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, being careful not to overcrowd them. Grill the chicken skewers for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally so all sides get that delicious smoky char. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and edges have a slight crispness without being dry.
Step 4: Rest and Get Ready to Serve
Once grilled, remove the skewers and let them rest for around five minutes. This little pause allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each bite tender and moist. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh basil or squeeze fresh lime over the skewers before serving to add an extra burst of aromatic freshness.
How to Serve Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers with fresh lime wedges and a few extra Thai basil leaves instantly brightens the dish and ups the visual appeal. The lime juice adds zesty brightness that contrasts the smoky, spicy chicken, while the basil leaves enhance the authentic herbal aroma.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple yet flavorful sides like steamed jasmine rice or fluffy coconut rice to absorb the delicious juices. For a lighter option, crisp lettuce leaves can be used as wraps to add crunch and freshness, or try a cool cucumber salad tossed with a hint of vinegar and sugar to balance the heat.
Creative Ways to Present
To really impress at your next dinner or gathering, serve these skewers family-style on a large platter surrounded by fresh herbs, lime wedges, and sliced chilies for guests to customize their own bites. Alternatively, place skewers on small plates alongside dipping sauces like sweet chili or peanut sauce for an interactive, street-food-inspired experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the cooked chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bold flavors tend to deepen, making the next-day meal just as delightful as fresh off the grill.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers by wrapping them tightly in foil or placing them in freezer-safe containers. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or on a grill pan over medium heat to retain some of that freshly grilled texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as direct heat helps preserve the chicken’s moisture and the basil’s fresh aroma.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken breast is leaner and will still work well marinated and grilled, but keep in mind it dries out more easily, so watch your cooking time closely to keep it juicy.
What if I don’t have Thai basil? Is there a substitute?
Yes, while Thai basil has a unique peppery flavor, you can substitute with regular sweet basil mixed with a pinch of fresh mint or a little fresh cilantro to approximate the herbaceous notes.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I adjust the heat?
This recipe offers a balanced spicy kick thanks to the Thai bird’s eye chili, but you can easily adjust by reducing or omitting the chili or swapping it for a milder red chili to suit your heat preference.
Do I need to soak wooden skewers before grilling?
Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes is a great tip to prevent them from burning on the grill and also helps keep the chicken juicy as it grills.
Can I make this recipe on a stovetop instead of a grill?
Absolutely! A grill pan or heavy skillet over medium-high heat works well. Just be sure to turn the chicken frequently to get even cooking and a nice char on all sides.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish bursting with bold flavors, inviting aromas, and that perfect balance of spicy, savory, and fresh, this Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s straightforward to prepare, fun to grill, and delightful to share with friends and family. Give it a try—you’ll quickly find it becoming a beloved favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus marinating time
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai
Description
These Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and aromatic dish featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and aromatic Thai basil. Grilled to perfection, they offer a delightful combination of spicy, tangy, and smoky flavors perfect for a main course inspired by authentic Thai street food.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili or Thai bird’s eye chili, finely chopped (adjust to heat preference)
- ½ cup fresh Thai basil leaves, chopped
For Grilling
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning)
- Optional for serving: lime wedges and extra basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Make the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, sesame oil, minced garlic, and finely chopped chili until the sugar dissolves.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces and chopped Thai basil into the marinade. Toss everything well to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to absorb flavors.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, ensuring it is properly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the prepared skewers evenly, allowing some space between pieces for even cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and slightly charred at the edges.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with lime wedges and extra Thai basil leaves as desired before serving.
Notes
- Serve these skewers with jasmine rice, lettuce wraps, or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal.
- Thai basil has a distinct peppery flavor; if unavailable, substitute with regular basil and add a pinch of mint for a similar aroma.
- Adjust the amount of chili according to your preferred spice level.
- Soaking wooden skewers is essential to prevent them from burning on the grill.
