Grilled Chicken Skewers with Creamy Peanut Sauce

These grilled chicken skewers smothered in a rich, creamy peanut sauce are the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and nutty.

Whether broiled or grilled, they make a mouthwatering main dish that’s perfect for summer BBQs or cozy weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor-packed from marinated chicken to dipping sauce

Grill or broil options for all kitchens

Easy to prep in advance

Delicious with rice or veggies on the side

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Chicken thighs – Juicy and perfect for grilling

Peanut butter – Use creamy for smooth texture

Coconut milk – Full-fat from a can for richness

Lime juice – Adds fresh tang

Soy sauce or fish sauce – Brings salty umami

Brown sugar – Balances the savory flavors

Garlic & ginger – Classic aromatic base

Chili flakes – Optional for heat

Pro Tips Before You Start

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning

Let chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, up to 8 hours for max flavor

Use an internal thermometer to check for doneness (160°F before resting)

Bring extra peanut sauce to room temp before serving for easy drizzling

How to Make Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Make the Peanut Sauce
Whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, lime juice, soy or fish sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes (if using) until smooth.

Set aside half for marinating, and refrigerate the rest for serving.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place bite-sized chicken thigh chunks in a dish and pour the peanut sauce over.

Toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for 1–8 hours.

Stir at least once during marinating.

Step 3: Prepare for Cooking
Remove chicken from fridge and thread onto soaked skewers.

Grease a baking sheet or fit with a wire rack if broiling.

Step 4A: Broil Method
Preheat broiler to high.

Place skewers on prepared baking sheet and broil for 6 minutes or until internal temp hits 160°F.

Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Step 4B: Grill Method
Preheat grill to medium-high.

Place skewers over indirect heat, close lid, and grill for 6 minutes.

Flip and cook another 6–10 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 160°F.

Step 5: Serve
Serve hot with a drizzle of the reserved peanut sauce.

Garnish with lime wedges, chopped peanuts, cilantro, or green onions.

What to Serve It With

Steamed jasmine or brown rice

Stir-fried vegetables

Fresh cucumber salad

Variations / Substitutions

Use chicken breast instead of thighs

Add chili garlic sauce to the marinade for extra heat

Swap soy sauce with tamari for gluten-free

 Storage & Leftovers

Store leftover chicken and sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days

Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave

Peanut sauce may thicken in fridge—add a splash of water or coconut milk to thin

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken and prep the sauce up to a day in advance.

Is this recipe spicy?
Only slightly—you can adjust the chili flakes to taste.

Can I use store-bought peanut sauce?
You can, but homemade gives the best flavor and freshness.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Use thighs and don’t overcook. Let them rest before serving.

Can I bake this instead?
Yes, bake at 425°F for about 20–25 minutes or until done.

Final Thoughts

These grilled chicken skewers with peanut sauce are an irresistible combo of juicy meat and creamy, flavorful sauce.

Whether broiled, grilled, or baked, they’re a versatile and delicious dish everyone will crave!