Lemongrass Chicken Skewers
A flavorful Thai dish featuring tender chicken marinated with aromatic lemongrass and then grilled to perfection, perfect for any gathering.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
Start by soaking the wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- 2
In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped lemongrass, minced garlic, brown sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, vegetable oil, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- 3
Cut the boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator for the best flavor.
- 4
Preheat your grill to a medium heat.
- 5
Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers, evenly distributing the pieces.
- 6
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- 7
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and season with additional black pepper if desired before serving.
Cook notes
Tips
For best results, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
If you can’t find lemongrass, you can substitute with lemon zest or lime zest for a different citrus aroma.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store any leftover cooked skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat the chicken skewers in a skillet over medium heat for best results.
Substitutions
- If you don't have fish sauce, using soy sauce as a 1:1 substitute works in this recipe.
- Brown sugar can be replaced with honey for a different sweetness.
What to Serve With
- Jasmine rice
- Cucumber salad
- Steamed green beans
Common Mistakes
- Not soaking the skewers which can lead to burning on the grill.
- Overcrowding the skewers, preventing even cooking of the chicken.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breast, but make sure not to overcook as it can dry out.
What can I serve with these skewers?
These skewers pair well with jasmine rice or a simple cucumber salad.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, or overnight if time allows.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Blender
Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
Measuring spoons
Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.
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