Thai Grilled Chicken

Thai Grilled Chicken Recipe - Authentic Southeast Asian Flavors at Home!

Region / culture: Asia, Southeast Asia, Thailand | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Thai Grilled Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is popular in Thai cuisine. The combination of herbs and spices used in the marinade gives the chicken a unique and delicious taste that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Thai Grilled Chicken, also known as Gai Yang, is a traditional Thai dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the northeastern region of Thailand, where it is a popular street food. The marinade used in this recipe is a combination of traditional Thai ingredients that have been used in Thai cooking for generations.

Ingredients

12 boneless or boned chicken thighs, breasts, legs, or wings
0.33 cup chopped thai basil
0.33 cup chopped fresh coriander/cilantro
1 tbsp minced ginger or (3 tbsp galangal)
1 tbsp minced chili or (4 tbsp chili oil or powder)
1.5 tbsp soy sauce, dark only
1.5 tbsp fish sauce
1.5 tbsp olive oil
1.5 tbsp brown sugar

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine all ingredients except chicken. Mix thoroughly.
Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least one hour, preferably longer.
Grill the chicken on the barbecue grill until it turns golden-brown and is cooked through. Optionally, baste the chicken briefly.
Serve the chicken hot and plain over rice, or alongside other main dishes or side dishes.

Variations

You can customize this recipe by adding different herbs and spices to the marinade, such as lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, or chili peppers.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least one hour to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Use boneless or boned chicken thighs, breasts, legs, or wings for this recipe.

- Grill the chicken on a barbecue grill for the best flavor and texture.

- Baste the chicken with the marinade while grilling for extra flavor.

- Serve the chicken hot and plain over rice, or alongside other main dishes or side dishes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Thai Grilled Chicken hot and plain over rice, or alongside other main dishes or side dishes. It pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the best cooking technique for this recipe, as it gives the chicken a smoky and charred flavor that complements the marinade.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find galangal, you can substitute it with ginger.

- If you don't have Thai basil, you can use regular basil or mint as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Thai Grilled Chicken on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lime wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a side of sticky rice, jasmine rice, or coconut rice. It also goes well with a cold beer or a refreshing Thai iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250 per serving

Carbohydrates

6g per serving

Fats

12g per serving

Proteins

24g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce and fish sauce, which may contain allergens such as soy and fish.

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories.

Summary

Thai Grilled Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner. The combination of herbs and spices used in the marinade gives the chicken a unique and delicious taste that is sure to please your taste buds. Serve it hot and plain over rice, or alongside other main dishes or side dishes for a complete meal. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a hot summer day, and I was wandering through the bustling streets of Bangkok, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city. As I passed by a street food vendor, the aroma of grilled chicken wafted through the air, drawing me in like a magnet.

I watched as the vendor expertly marinated the chicken in a blend of Thai spices and herbs, then grilled it to perfection over a charcoal fire. The smell was intoxicating, and I knew I had to try it for myself. I approached the vendor and asked him for the recipe, but he just smiled and shook his head, saying it was a family secret passed down through generations.

Undeterred, I decided to try and recreate the recipe on my own. I spent hours researching Thai cuisine, studying the different herbs and spices used in traditional dishes. I experimented with different combinations, trying to capture the essence of that delicious grilled chicken I had tasted on the streets of Bangkok.

After several failed attempts, I finally stumbled upon the perfect blend of ingredients that recreated the flavors of that memorable dish. The secret, I discovered, was in the marinade – a mixture of lemongrass, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and coconut milk that infused the chicken with a rich, savory flavor that was simply irresistible.

I shared my creation with friends and family, who all raved about how delicious it was. They couldn't believe that I had managed to recreate the flavors of authentic Thai cuisine in my own kitchen. Encouraged by their praise, I continued to refine the recipe, tweaking it here and there until it was just right.

Over the years, I have made this Thai grilled chicken for countless gatherings and celebrations, always receiving compliments and requests for the recipe. I have shared it with neighbors, coworkers, and even strangers who have become friends after tasting this dish.

One of my fondest memories of sharing this recipe was when my granddaughter, little Emma, asked me to teach her how to make it. I remember the excitement in her eyes as we gathered the ingredients and mixed them together, her small hands eagerly helping me marinate the chicken.

As we grilled the chicken over the fire, I could see the pride in Emma's eyes as she watched the meat sizzle and brown, just like the street vendor in Bangkok. When we finally sat down to eat, she took her first bite and exclaimed, "Grandma, this tastes just like the chicken we had in Thailand!"

I smiled at her, knowing that I had passed down not just a recipe, but a piece of my own culinary journey to my granddaughter. Cooking is more than just following instructions – it is about creating memories, sharing stories, and connecting with others through the food we prepare and enjoy together.

And so, the recipe for Thai grilled chicken has become more than just a dish in my repertoire – it is a symbol of the love, passion, and dedication that I pour into every meal I make. It is a reminder of the time I spent wandering the streets of Bangkok, seeking inspiration and discovering the flavors of a culture that has become a part of me.

As I sit here now, surrounded by my family and friends, enjoying a plate of Thai grilled chicken made with love and shared with joy, I am grateful for the journey that brought me to this moment. And I can't help but smile, knowing that the recipe for this dish will continue to be passed down through the generations, enriching the lives and taste buds of all who taste it.