Warm summer evenings call for a sizzling culinary adventure, and what better way to ignite your tastebuds than with Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers? These skewers are a lively testament to Thailand’s vibrant street food culture, merging juicy, marinated chicken with a coconut-infused marinade that dances with flavor. Not only are these skewers quick to prepare, making them perfect for those last-minute gatherings, but they also come with a rich, creamy cashew dipping sauce, adding a decadent yet healthy twist to your outdoor feasts. As you grill them to mouthwatering perfection, the aromatic blend of Thai basil and zesty lime fills the air, creating an irresistible allure that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Ready to take your grilling game to an exciting new level? Let’s dive into this recipe together! Why Try Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers? Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with vibrant Thai herbs, zesty lime, and a hint of sweetness, offering a delicious twist that outshines ordinary skewers. Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy evenings or spontaneous gatherings, you can prepare these within 30 minutes, making them a hassle-free choice for dinner. Versatile Options: Customize with shrimp or tofu, catering to different diets without sacrificing flavor. Pair them with your favorite sides, like hibachi noodles or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: The creamy cashew dipping sauce elevates these skewers, ensuring even picky eaters will come back for more! Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Ingredients For the Skewers: • Chicken Breasts/Thighs – Juicy protein base; substitute with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood option. • Coconut Milk – Adds creaminess and subtle sweetness; use full-fat for a richer texture. • Lime (Zest & Juice) – Brightens flavors in the marinade and sauce, bringing a zesty kick. • Basil Leaves (Thai or Holy) – Provides authentic Thai flavor; regular basil can be used if needed. • Green Onion – Adds mild onion flavor to the marinade, enhancing its depth. • Cilantro Leaves – Fresh herb that brightens the marinade with a burst of flavor. • Brown Sugar – Balances the heat for a more complex flavor profile in the skewers. • Ginger (Grated) – Adds warm, spicy depth to the dish, perfect for infusing flavor. • Garlic Powder – Serves as a savory base in both the marinade and sauce. • Coconut Aminos – A gluten-free substitute for soy sauce, providing umami flavor. • Rice Vinegar – Provides tanginess that balances the flavors beautifully. • Allspice – Contributes warmth and complexity to the marinade. • Sesame Seeds – Adds nutty texture; toast for enhanced flavor. • Sesame Oil – Gives a toasted aroma that elevates the marinade’s profile. • Thai Red Peppers – Adds heat; adjust the quantity for your desired spice level. • Coconut Extract – Enhances the coconut flavor profile for a tropical twist. For the Gremolata Topping: • Lime Zest – Adds beautiful citrus brightness to complement the skewers. • Roasted Cashews (Chopped) – Provides a crunchy element that pairs well with the cashew sauce. • Sesame Seeds – For additional nutty texture to enrich the topping. For the Cashew Sauce: • Plant-Based Butter – Adds a rich texture to the dipping sauce for a creamy finish. • Cashew Butter – The creamy base for the sauce; almond or peanut butter can be used as a substitute for variety. • Reserved Coconut Milk – Ties in with the marinade for consistent flavor throughout the dish. • Thai Red Pepper (Minced) – For a spicy kick within the sauce itself. • Brown Sugar – Sweetens and balances the heat in the sauce. • Rice Vinegar – Brightens the sauce, elevating its overall flavor profile. • Ginger (Grated) – Adds a spicy note similar to the marinade, tying the dish together. • Garlic Powder – Enhances the depth of flavor across the dish. • Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavor in both sauce and marinade. • Sesame Oil – Contributes richness and nuttiness, enhancing the overall taste of the sauce. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Step 1: Marinate Chicken In a blender, combine coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, basil leaves, green onion, cilantro, brown sugar, grated ginger, garlic powder, coconut aminos, rice vinegar, allspice, sesame oil, and minced Thai red peppers. Blend until smooth. In a bowl, toss the chicken cubes with the marinade, ensuring they’re well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse—overnight is best for rich taste. Step 2: Prepare Gremolata While the chicken marinates, prepare the gremolata. In a small bowl, mix together chopped basil, crushed roasted cashews, sesame seeds, and lime zest until evenly combined. This vibrant topping will add a refreshing crunch that complements the Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers. Set the gremolata aside until ready to serve, letting the flavors meld beautifully. Step 3: Make Cashew Sauce In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the plant-based butter. Once melted, whisk in the remaining cashew sauce ingredients: reserved coconut milk, minced Thai red pepper, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and sesame oil. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and keep warm for serving alongside the skewers. Step 4: Grill Chicken Preheat your grill to high heat while threading the marinated chicken onto skewers, ensuring an even distribution. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking, then place the skewers on the grill. Cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with reserved marinade. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is charred and juicy. Step 5: Serve Allow the grilled Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers to rest for a few minutes after removing them from the grill. Sprinkle the gremolata generously on top, adding brightness and texture. Serve hot with the creamy cashew sauce on the side for dipping, creating a deliciously cohesive dish perfect for any gathering or leisurely dinner. How to Store and Freeze Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Fridge: Store leftover Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Freezer: For uncooked skewers, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling. Reheating: Reheat cooked skewers in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Brush with a little oil to keep them juicy. Marinade Storage: If you have leftover marinade, store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, but do not use it on cooked food—always discard. Expert Tips for Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Marinate Longer: Aim for an overnight marination to deepen the flavors of the Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers and achieve maximum juiciness. Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning and sticking. Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to modify the amount of Thai red peppers in your marinade according to your taste preference—less for mild, more for heat! Grilling Temperature: Keep the grill at medium heat to avoid burning the chicken while ensuring it cooks through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F. Gremolata Freshness: Prepare the gremolata right before serving to retain its vibrant flavors and crunch, enhancing your delicious skewers. Make Ahead Options These Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance—this allows the flavors to develop beautifully, resulting in a juicy and tender dish. Additionally, you can prepare the gremolata topping and cashew sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply whisk together the sauce just before serving and keep it warm over low heat. When ready to grill, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and cook as directed, ensuring restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Enjoy hassle-free entertaining or weeknight dinners with these deliciously convenient skewers! What to Serve with Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Elevate your grilling experience with delightful sides and pairings that will round out your meal with flavor and texture. Sticky Jasmine Rice: The subtly sweet and fragrant rice complements the skewers perfectly, soaking up the delicious coconut flavors from the chicken and sauce. Crispy Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, crunchy salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette that cuts through the richness of the skewers, offering a palate-cleansing bite. Mango Salsa: Sweet and spicy, this vibrant salsa adds a tropical zing that pairs beautifully with the flavorful skewers, making each bite a fiesta of taste. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn charred to perfection brings a lovely texture and sweetness alongside the skewers, enhancing the overall grilling experience. Thai Coconut Noodles: Silkiness from the coconut milk in these noodles harmonizes with the skewers, creating a cohesive, Thai-inspired meal that delights the senses. Pineapple Mojito: A fruity twist on the classic, this cocktail beautifully balances the dish with its refreshing mint and citrus notes, perfect for summer gatherings. Fruit Skewers: For a light and delicious dessert, fresh fruit skewers add a sweet touch that complements the spicy flavors of the chicken while offering a refreshing finish. Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Variations Get ready to tailor these delicious skewers to your taste preferences and dietary needs! Seafood Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a quick, seafood twist that adds a delightful oceanic flavor. Veggie Delight: Use marinated tofu or tempeh instead of chicken to create a scrumptious vegetarian option that maintains that rich flavor. Nutty Change: Try almond or peanut butter instead of cashew butter for the sauce, and experience a new layer of nutty goodness. Heat Level Adjustment: If you love a fiery kick, add more Thai red peppers to the marinade for extra spice, or swap with jalapeños for a milder heat. Fresh Herb Mix: Combine basil with mint or cilantro for a refreshing herbaceous twist that adds brightness to your skewers. Zesty Marinade: Incorporate orange or grapefruit juice alongside lime for a zesty citrus flavor that enhances the marinade’s complexity. New Side Dishes: Serve alongside a refreshing zoodle salad or roasted vegetables for a vibrant, healthful meal that complements the skewers perfectly. Crunchy Topping: Swap crushed roasted cashews in the gremolata for spiced chickpeas for a crunchy twist and a hearty flavor boost. Explore these variations and elevate your next grilling experience! If you’re in the mood for more deliciously grilled treats, consider pairing them with our Cheesy Chicken Spinach or Sweet Spicy Hot recipes for a well-rounded feast. Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for the skewers? Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts or thighs for juiciness. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider tofu for a vegetarian option or shrimp for a seafood twist that keeps the flavors bright and zesty. How do I store leftovers? Leftover Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to keep them fresh! Can I freeze the skewers? Definitely! For uncooked skewers, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. What if my skewers are burning on the grill? Very! If you notice that the skewers are burning, it could be due to high heat. Lower the grill temperature to medium to ensure even cooking. It’s also helpful to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning. Are these skewers suitable for gluten-free diets? Absolutely! The Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers are gluten-free, especially when you use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Always check that your cashew butter is made from pure nuts and free from gluten-containing ingredients. How do I know the chicken is cooked thoroughly? For perfectly grilled chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and retains its juiciness. If you don’t have one, make sure the chicken is no longer pink in the center. Savor Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers with Creamy Cashew Sauce Savor Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers with a rich cashew sauce for a delicious twist on street food. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 skewersCourse: DinnerCuisine: ThaiCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Skewers1 pound Chicken Breasts/Thighs Juicy protein base; substitute with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood option.1 cup Coconut Milk Adds creaminess and subtle sweetness; use full-fat for a richer texture.1 each Lime (Zest & Juice) Brightens flavors in the marinade and sauce, bringing a zesty kick.1 cup Basil Leaves (Thai or Holy) Provides authentic Thai flavor; regular basil can be used if needed.2 each Green Onion Adds mild onion flavor to the marinade, enhancing its depth.¼ cup Cilantro Leaves Fresh herb that brightens the marinade with a burst of flavor.2 tablespoons Brown Sugar Balances the heat for a more complex flavor profile in the skewers.1 tablespoon Ginger (Grated) Adds warm, spicy depth to the dish, perfect for infusing flavor.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Serves as a savory base in both the marinade and sauce.2 tablespoons Coconut Aminos A gluten-free substitute for soy sauce, providing umami flavor.2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar Provides tanginess that balances the flavors beautifully.½ teaspoon Allspice Contributes warmth and complexity to the marinade.1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds Adds nutty texture; toast for enhanced flavor.1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Gives a toasted aroma that elevates the marinade's profile.2 each Thai Red Peppers Adds heat; adjust the quantity for your desired spice level.1 teaspoon Coconut Extract Enhances the coconut flavor profile for a tropical twist.For the Gremolata Topping1 each Lime Zest Adds beautiful citrus brightness to complement the skewers.¼ cup Roasted Cashews (Chopped) Provides a crunchy element that pairs well with the cashew sauce.1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds For additional nutty texture to enrich the topping.For the Cashew Sauce2 tablespoons Plant-Based Butter Adds a rich texture to the dipping sauce for a creamy finish.½ cup Cashew Butter The creamy base for the sauce; almond or peanut butter can be used as a substitute for variety.½ cup Reserved Coconut Milk Ties in with the marinade for consistent flavor throughout the dish.1 each Thai Red Pepper (Minced) For a spicy kick within the sauce itself.2 tablespoons Brown Sugar Sweetens and balances the heat in the sauce.2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar Brightens the sauce, elevating its overall flavor profile.1 tablespoon Ginger (Grated) Adds a spicy note similar to the marinade, tying the dish together.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances the depth of flavor across the dish.½ teaspoon Salt Essential seasoning to bring out all the flavor in both sauce and marinade.½ teaspoon Black Pepper Essential seasoning to bring out all the flavor in both sauce and marinade.1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Contributes richness and nuttiness, enhancing the overall taste of the sauce. Equipment blenderGrillSaucepanSmall Bowl Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsIn a blender, combine coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, basil leaves, green onion, cilantro, brown sugar, grated ginger, garlic powder, coconut aminos, rice vinegar, allspice, sesame oil, and minced Thai red peppers. Blend until smooth. In a bowl, toss the chicken cubes with the marinade, ensuring they're well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse—overnight is best for rich taste.While the chicken marinates, prepare the gremolata. In a small bowl, mix together chopped saffron, crushed roasted cashews, sesame seeds, and lime zest until evenly combined. This vibrant topping will add a refreshing crunch that complements the Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers. Set the gremolata aside until ready to serve, letting the flavors meld beautifully.In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the plant-based butter. Once melted, whisk in the remaining cashew sauce ingredients: reserved coconut milk, minced Thai red pepper, brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and sesame oil. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and keep warm for serving alongside the skewers.Preheat your grill to high heat while threading the marinated chicken onto skewers, ensuring an even distribution. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking, then place the skewers on the grill. Cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with reserved marinade. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is charred and juicy.Allow the grilled Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers to rest for a few minutes after removing them from the grill. Sprinkle the gremolata generously on top, adding brightness and texture. Serve hot with the creamy cashew sauce on the side for dipping, creating a deliciously cohesive dish perfect for any gathering or leisurely dinner. Nutrition Serving: 1skewerCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 24gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1.5mg NotesMarinate longer for maximum flavor, soak wooden skewers, adjust spice level to preference, maintain proper grilling temperature, and prepare gremolata fresh for best results. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
