Exotic Lemongrass-Infused Coconut Chicken Skewers: A Flavorful Delight

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There’s something magical about the combination of lemongrass, coconut, and a blend of spices that transports your senses to a tropical paradise. Picture yourself on a warm evening, the grill sizzling with Exotic Lemongrass-Infused Coconut Chicken Skewers, each bite offering a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a simple yet exotic weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. The best part? It’s not as complicated as it sounds. With just a few steps, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s both easy and impressive. Let’s dive into how you can prepare these tantalizing skewers that everyone will rave about.

Why You’ll Love These Lemongrass-Infused Coconut Chicken Skewers

A Unique Flavor Profile You’ll Never Forget

These skewers offer a flavor profile unlike any other. The coconut cream adds richness, while lemongrass introduces a citrusy freshness that brightens up the dish. The subtle kick from Madras curry powder, combined with the sweetness of condensed milk and fish sauce, creates a deeply aromatic marinade that soaks into the chicken. When grilled to perfection, the skewers develop a deliciously smoky char, further enhancing the complex flavors. If you’re a fan of bold, vibrant dishes, these skewers will quickly become a go-to.

Perfect for Any Occasion

No matter the occasion, these Exotic Lemongrass-Infused Coconut Chicken Skewers can shine. They’re ideal for everything from casual dinners to fancy gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a tropical-themed dinner party, or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is as versatile as it is flavorful. Plus, the skewers are easy to make in large batches, so you can serve them at your next party or event without a hitch.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

While the marinade does need time to soak in, the hands-on prep time for these skewers is only about 20 minutes. After marinating, it’s just a matter of grilling the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side, brushing it with the sweet coconut glaze, and serving with a quick peanut sauce. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s bursting with tropical flavors.

Ingredients for the Perfect Skewers

Creating the perfect Exotic Lemongrass-Infused Coconut Chicken Skewers requires a handful of quality ingredients. Let’s break down everything you’ll need:

Chicken Skewers Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken (approx. 4 chicken breasts or 8 boneless chicken thighs)
  You can choose boneless chicken thighs for juicier skewers or chicken breasts for a leaner option.

Marinade Ingredients:

• 6 tablespoons lemongrass (approx. 1½ stalks)
  Fresh lemongrass is crucial here for that fresh, citrusy flavor. Don’t substitute with dried lemongrass; it won’t offer the same brightness.
• 3 cloves garlic (approx. 1 ½ tablespoons)
  Garlic adds depth and a savory undertone to the marinade.
• ½ small onion (or 2 shallots, approx. 3-4 tablespoons)
  The onion brings subtle sweetness and richness to the marinade.
• 1 cup coconut cream (full fat)
  Full-fat coconut cream provides a rich and creamy texture that is essential for the marinade.
• 2 tablespoons Madras curry powder
  This specific curry powder adds a balanced mix of warmth, sweetness, and a bit of heat.
• 3 tablespoons fish sauce
  Fish sauce is a key ingredient that brings a savory umami flavor to the marinade.
• ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
  The sweetness of condensed milk rounds out the savory notes of the fish sauce and spices.
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  Coriander adds a light, citrusy note to the dish that complements the lemongrass perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  Cumin adds earthiness and depth, balancing the more vibrant flavors.
• 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
  Turmeric gives the dish a beautiful golden color and a warm, aromatic flavor.  garlic bread or steamed vegetables.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream

Coconut Cream Glaze Ingredients:

• 6 tablespoons coconut cream (full fat)
  The coconut cream glaze is sweetened with honey to give it a smooth, glossy finish.
• 1½ tablespoons honey
  Honey adds a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors in the marinade.
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  The soy sauce enhances the glaze’s umami flavor and gives it a nice depth.

Quick Peanut Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
  A small amount of red curry paste adds a bit of heat and complexity to the peanut sauce.
• ¼ cup natural unsweetened peanut butter
  Peanut butter creates a creamy base for the sauce, while offering a subtle nuttiness that pairs well with the other ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons coconut cream (full fat)
  Coconut cream helps to keep the sauce rich and smooth, tying in with the flavors of the marinade and glaze.
• 2 teaspoons honey
  A touch of honey rounds out the peanut sauce’s flavor, balancing the salty and spicy notes.
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce (or fish sauce)
  Soy sauce or fish sauce adds the necessary umami depth to the peanut sauce.
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or lime juice)
  Rice vinegar (or lime juice) adds a tangy kick, cutting through the richness of the peanut butter.
• 3 tablespoons water (adjust to desired consistency)
  Water helps thin out the sauce so it’s easy to drizzle over the skewers.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  Sesame oil gives the sauce a lovely nutty flavor and fragrance.
• 1 teaspoon chili oil (optional)
  If you like a little extra spice, chili oil can add a kick to the sauce.

Optional Garnishes:

• Crushed peanuts
  Crushed peanuts add crunch and an extra layer of flavor, making the skewers even more delicious.

How to Prepare Lemongrass-Infused Coconut Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Preparing the Lemongrass Marinade

To get the most out of the lemongrass, you need to prepare it properly. Start by trimming the dry ends of the stalks and removing the tough outer layers. Smash the lemongrass with the back of a knife to release the essential oils, and then finely chop it. This will give your marinade an intense, aromatic flavor that infuses beautifully into the chicken.

Now, place the lemongrass in a food processor along with the garlic, onion (or shallots), coconut cream, curry powder, fish sauce, sweetened condensed milk, coriander, cumin, and turmeric. Blend everything until it forms a smooth paste. The marinade should be thick but spreadable, perfect for coating the chicken.

Step 2: Marinating the Chicken

Slice the chicken into ¼-inch thick pieces to ensure that the marinade can fully penetrate the meat. Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly with the marinade and skewer them, making sure each piece is flat to allow for even cooking. Once your skewers are ready, place them in a bowl or tray, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours—overnight if you want maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preparing the Coconut Glaze

While the chicken marinates, prepare the coconut cream glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut cream, honey, and soy sauce until smooth. The glaze should have a nice balance of sweetness from the honey and richness from the coconut cream. Store the glaze in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

Step 4: Grilling the Chicken Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, making sure it’s hot before placing the skewers on it. Grill the skewers for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely golden-brown color. Periodically brush the skewers with the coconut glaze to keep them moist and flavorful. The glaze will caramelize slightly, creating a glossy, irresistible finish on the chicken.

Quick Peanut Sauce: The Perfect Dip for Your Skewers

The peanut sauce is the perfect complement to the Exotic Lemongrass-Infused Coconut Chicken Skewers. It adds creaminess, a hint of spice, and a touch of sweetness. To make the sauce, simply combine the Thai red curry paste, peanut butter, coconut cream, honey, soy sauce (or fish sauce), and rice vinegar in a bowl. Whisk everything until smooth, adding water to adjust the consistency to your liking. For extra flavor, drizzle in sesame oil and chili oil for a little heat.

Serve the peanut sauce on the side or drizzle it over the skewers just before serving. Optionally, garnish the skewers with crushed peanuts to add a bit of crunch.

Expert Tips for the Best Lemongrass-Infused Coconut Chicken Skewers

• Use Fresh Lemongrass: Fresh lemongrass will give you the best flavor. If you can’t find fresh lemongrass, look for lemongrass paste as a backup. It’s a more convenient option, though the flavor won’t be as vibrant.
• Marinate the Chicken Overnight: For deeper flavor penetration, marinate your chicken overnight. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more flavorful it will be.
• Grill with Care: Ensure that your grill is at the right temperature. If the grill is too hot, the chicken might burn before it’s fully cooked inside. If it’s too cool, you’ll miss out on that wonderful charred flavor.
• Adjust the Heat: If you like your skewers a little spicier, increase the amount of curry paste in the peanut sauce or add chili oil to the marinade.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Lemongrass-Infused Coconut Chicken Skewers

What’s the best chicken to use for skewers?

You can use either boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked, while breasts cook faster and are leaner.

Can I make the peanut sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the peanut sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just give it a good stir before serving.

What can I serve these skewers with?

These skewers go wonderfully with jasmine rice, grilled vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them with a side of coconut rice.

Can I bake these skewers in the oven?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers on a lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Conclusion: Bring a Taste of the Tropics to Your Kitchen

These Exotic Lemongrass-Infused Coconut Chicken Skewers are the perfect combination of rich flavors, vibrant spices, and a touch of tropical flair. Whether you’re grilling on a warm evening or looking to impress your guests, these skewers are sure to become a favorite. Try them out today and let the tropical flavors take you on a culinary adventure that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

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