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
Scale
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.
