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Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers

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.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 skewers
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Skewers
  • 1 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 Topping
  • 1 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 Sauce
  • 2 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

  • blender
  • Grill
  • Saucepan
  • Small Bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

Notes

Marinate longer for maximum flavor, soak wooden skewers, adjust spice level to preference, maintain proper grilling temperature, and prepare gremolata fresh for best results.

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