Coconut Lime Chicken Skewers

Name: Coconut Lime Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup coconut milk; Juice of 2 limes; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, cut into cubes; 2 bell peppers, cut into squares; 1 onion, cut into wedges; Wooden or metal skewers

Highlighted under: Fresh & Wholesome Recipes

When I first made these Coconut Lime Chicken Skewers, I knew I had stumbled upon a tropical flavor bomb. The combination of juicy chicken marinated in coconut milk and zesty lime creates an irresistible fusion that transports me to a sunny beach with every bite. Perfect for grilling season or a fun outdoor gathering, these skewers are sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Trust me, they’re not just about flavor; they're about an experience that brings a taste of paradise to your plate.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-13T16:42:19.555Z

As I experimented with the marinade for these skewers, I discovered the magic of balancing flavors. Combining coconut milk with fresh lime juice not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a tropical essence that is hard to resist. I also learned that letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes can make a world of difference, as it deepens the flavor.

I love to fire up the grill for these skewers, as the high heat beautifully caramelizes the sugars in the marinade, creating a lovely char that complements the savory chicken. Serve these skewers with a side of coconut rice or a fresh salad, and you have a versatile dish that shines at any gathering.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy chicken infused with rich coconut flavor
Zesty lime brightness that brings everything to life
Easy to prepare and perfect for outdoor gatherings

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating is crucial in this Coconut Lime Chicken Skewers recipe. The coconut milk serves as a tenderizer due to its acidity, while the lime juice adds a zesty kick that penetrates the chicken. For optimal results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, allow it to soak for up to 4 hours. This extended marination helps the flavors deepen and ensures every bite bursts with the tropical essence you’re aiming for.

If you're in a hurry, even a 15-minute marinade can enhance the chicken, but the longer you wait, the better the flavor. Ensure all pieces are well-coated; this ensures that each bite has an even distribution of the marinade. To avoid contamination, always discard any leftover marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken.

Choosing the Right Skewers

When selecting skewers for this recipe, consider the material carefully. Wooden skewers are popular but can burn on the grill. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking to prevent charring. Metal skewers, on the other hand, can withstand high heat and are reusable, making them a more environmentally friendly option. Plus, they require no soaking and are less prone to bending.

Whatever skewers you choose, make sure to thread the chicken and vegetables with some space between each piece. This spacing allows the heat to circulate evenly, leading to perfectly cooked chicken with lovely grill marks and a slight char that adds depth to the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Coconut Lime Chicken Skewers are perfect served alongside fluffy rice or a refreshing salad, ideally something bright and crisp like a cucumber and mint salad, which perfectly complements the skewers' zesty flavor. Consider adding a side of dipping sauce made from yogurt and more lime for a refreshing contrast that will elevate your dish.

For a fun twist, serve these skewers on a tropical-themed platter with pineapple and mango chunks, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor profile. If you're planning a gathering, consider making extra skewers; they make great leftovers and can easily be reheated on the grill or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, until heated through.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1 cup coconut milk
Juice of 2 limes
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground ginger
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Skewers

1 1/2 pounds chicken breast, cut into cubes
2 bell peppers, cut into squares
1 onion, cut into wedges
Wooden or metal skewers

Mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly in a bowl before adding the chicken for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto the skewers alternately.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium heat. Grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately with extra lime wedges if desired.

Enjoy these skewers fresh off the grill—perfect for a summer meal!

Pro Tips

For a little extra crunch, add pineapple chunks to your skewers. They caramelize beautifully on the grill and enhance the tropical flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is versatile, and you can experiment with various ingredients. If you don't have coconut milk, consider using Greek yogurt for creaminess or almond milk for a lighter option, though this may alter the flavor. For a soy-free option, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which will retain the umami flavor without gluten.

For the vegetables, feel free to swap bell peppers and onions for favorites like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even mushrooms. These alternatives will still provide the texture and color you want while allowing for a mix of flavors. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may require adjustment in grilling time.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning for a gathering, prep the chicken and marinate it the night before. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge to let the flavors mature. This not only saves time on the day but also makes grilling quicker and easier, allowing you to focus on your guests.

You can also assemble the skewers in advance. Just keep them covered and refrigerated, ensuring you take them out about 15 minutes before grilling. This way, they'll cook more evenly and prevent any shock from direct heat, leading to a tender, juicy chicken that everyone will enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the marinade a day in advance?

Absolutely! Preparing it a day before will help the flavors meld beautifully.

→ What alternative proteins can I use?

You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a delicious variation.

→ How long should I soak wooden skewers?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.

→ Can I bake these skewers instead?

Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.