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Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers

Savor the Flavor: Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers Recipe

Discover the vibrant flavors of Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers that are quick, versatile, and perfect for summer barbecues.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 27 minutes
Servings: 4 skewers
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 pound Chicken (breasts or thighs) Substitution: use tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 cup Coconut milk Use whole fat for best results.
  • 2 tablespoons Lime juice Fresh limes are best.
  • 1/2 cup Basil leaves Thai or holy basil preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Green onion
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro leaves
  • 2 tablespoons Brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger Use fresh ginger for stronger flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon Coconut aminos Alternative to soy sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Allspice
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame oil
  • 1-2 pieces Thai red peppers Adjust quantity based on spice tolerance.
  • 1 teaspoon Coconut extract
For Gremolata Topping
  • 1 tablespoon Lime zest
  • 1/4 cup Cashews Roasted and chopped.
  • 1/4 cup Basil Fresh basil.
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds
For Cashew Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Plant-based butter
  • 1/2 cup Cashew butter
  • 1/4 cup Reserved coconut milk
  • 1 Thai red pepper Finely minced For heat.
  • 1 tablespoon Brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Ginger
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Allspice

Equipment

  • grill
  • Blender
  • Mixing bowl
  • Saucepan
  • wooden skewers

Method
 

Preparation Instructions
  1. In a blender, combine the coconut milk, basil leaves, green onion, cilantro, brown sugar, ginger, garlic powder, coconut aminos, rice vinegar, allspice, sesame seeds, sesame oil, and Thai red peppers. Blend until smooth and creamy, which should only take about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes and place it in a large bowl. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped basil, sesame seeds, crushed roasted cashews, and lime zest. Stir until evenly distributed.
  4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 350°F. While the grill heats, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto soaked wooden skewers. Lightly oil the grill grates and place the skewers on the grill, brushing occasionally with remaining marinade.
  5. In a small saucepan, melt plant-based butter over medium heat. Add a small amount of water and whisk in the cashew butter, reserved coconut milk, minced Thai red pepper, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic powder, and allspice. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
  6. Once the Thai Spicy Basil Chicken Skewers are beautifully charred and cooked through, remove them from the grill. Serve immediately on a platter, sprinkled with the prepared gremolata and drizzled with the creamy cashew sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1skewerCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours but preferably overnight. Maintain a medium heat when grilling to avoid charring the marinade, and soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked.

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