Thai Lemongrass Chicken Skewers – fragrant
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) chicken thighs, boneless & skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped (white part only)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Lime wedges and fresh cilantro, for serving
Instructions:
Prepare the marinade:
In a bowl, combine chopped lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, black pepper, chili flakes (if using), and vegetable oil. Mix well.
Marinate the chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 2–3 hours for maximum flavor.
Skewer the chicken:
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Preheat the grill:
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the skewers:
Place the chicken skewers on the grill. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges.
Serve:
Transfer the skewers to a serving plate. Garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately, ideally with sticky rice or a fresh salad.#sidehustle#sidegig#noise#jave
Thai Lemongrass Chicken Skewers are a popular street food in Thailand, renowned for their bright, aromatic flavors that perfectly balance savory, sweet, and spicy elements. The key ingredient, lemongrass, imparts a fresh citrusy aroma, making these skewers irresistibly fragrant. When preparing lemongrass for the marinade, it’s best to use only the tender white part of the stalk since it is less fibrous and easier to chew, which complements the chicken’s tenderness. Marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours is recommended to allow the flavors of garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar to deeply infuse the meat, ensuring each bite bursts with authentic taste. For grilling, soaking bamboo skewers in water beforehand helps prevent them from burning, while lightly oiling the grill grates prevents the chicken from sticking and tearing. Cooking the skewers over medium-high heat and turning them frequently ensures well-cooked, slightly charred edges that add a smoky nuance. This dish can be served with classic Thai sticky rice or a refreshing side salad featuring cucumber and herbs, which balance the meat’s richness. Adding lime wedges and fresh cilantro as garnishes brings a zesty lift that enhances the overall flavor experience. For extra heat, chili flakes are optional in the marinade but bring an enjoyable kick for those who prefer spicier food. Additionally, fish sauce adds umami and depth to the marinade that differentiates this recipe from other grilled chicken dishes. Home cooks can easily recreate this vibrant dish using accessible ingredients, inviting family and friends to enjoy an authentic Thai-inspired meal that’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual barbecue or an exotic dinner party.