Cambodian Spiced Grilled Chicken Skewers
Embark on a culinary journey to Cambodia with these flavorful Grilled Chicken Skewers infused with aromatic spices and herbs. This delightful recipe, inspired by the traditional Khmer cuisine, showcases tender chicken breast marinated in a rich blend of garlic, lemongrass, and curry powder, enhanced by the sweetness of honey and the zesty kick of lime juice. Perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy dinner, these skewers are not just delicious but a great way to experience the essence of Cambodian flavors right from your own kitchen. Serve alongside a refreshing mango salsa for a perfect complement to the spice, making each bite a taste of Southeast Asia.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken breast
1 lb (cut into strips)
garlic cloves
3 (minced)
green onion
1 (minced)
lemongrass
2 tablespoons (minced (or grated))
curry powder
2 tablespoons
honey or light brown sugar
1 tablespoon
soy sauce
1/2 tablespoon
fish sauce
1/2 tablespoon
fresh lime juice
1/2 tablespoon
paprika
1 teaspoon
black pepper
1/4 teaspoon
water
1/4 cup
vegetable oil
2 tablespoons (for grilling)
Instructions
1
In a large bowl, combine chicken strips, minced garlic, green onion, lemongrass, curry powder, honey (or brown sugar), soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, paprika, black pepper, and water. Mix well until the chicken is fully coated in the marinade.
2
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to tenderize.
3
After marination, thread the chicken strips onto skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
4
Preheat your grill to low heat. If using an oven, preheat the broiler.
5
Once the grill is ready, place the skewered chicken on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. If broiling, place skewers on a baking sheet and broil for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.
6
Serve the skewers hot with a side of fresh mango salsa for a vibrant and refreshing contrast.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in this Cambodian recipe?
The recipe uses 1 lb of chicken breast cut into strips.
How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
You should refrigerate the chicken in the marinade for at least 4 hours.
What are the primary aromatics used in the marinade?
The marinade features minced garlic, green onion, and minced or grated lemongrass.
How do I cook these chicken skewers on a grill?
Preheat the grill to low heat and cook the skewers for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
Can I cook this recipe in an oven if I do not have a grill?
Yes, you can preheat your broiler and cook the skewers on a baking sheet for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway.
What side dish is recommended to serve with these skewers?
A fresh mango salsa is recommended for a vibrant and refreshing contrast.
What sweeteners can be used in the marinade?
You can use either one tablespoon of honey or one tablespoon of light brown sugar.
What kind of oil should be used for grilling?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil for the grilling process.
How much curry powder is required for the Cambodian spice blend?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of curry powder.
Is fish sauce included in this recipe?
Yes, the marinade includes 1/2 tablespoon of fish sauce for traditional Khmer flavor.
What type of lime juice should I use?
The recipe specifies using 1/2 tablespoon of fresh lime juice.
How much water is added to the marinade?
1/4 cup of water is added to the marinade to help coat the chicken fully.
What spices provide the color and subtle heat?
Paprika and black pepper are used to enhance the color and flavor profile.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
You will need 3 minced garlic cloves.
How should the chicken be prepared before marinating?
The chicken breast should be cut into thin strips suitable for skewering.
What is the total number of ingredients in this recipe?
There are 13 total ingredients used in this recipe.
How much soy sauce is required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 tablespoon of soy sauce.
What is the specific preparation for the lemongrass?
The lemongrass should be finely minced or grated to release its aromatic oils.
How should the chicken be placed on the skewers?
Thread the marinated strips onto skewers ensuring they are evenly spaced for even cooking.
What temperature should the grill be set to?
The grill should be set to low heat to prevent burning while ensuring the chicken cooks through.
What is the origin of this flavor profile?
The recipe is inspired by traditional Cambodian or Khmer cuisine, known for its use of lemongrass and curry.
Should the bowl be covered during marination?
Yes, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid while it sits in the refrigerator.
How much paprika is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of paprika.
What is the serving suggestion for the skewers?
They should be served hot immediately after grilling or broiling.
How much green onion is used?
The recipe uses 1 minced green onion.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but ensure the chicken is completely thawed and patted dry before slicing and marinating.
How much black pepper is in the spice mix?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Why is honey used in Cambodian chicken?
Honey adds sweetness to balance the savory fish sauce and acidic lime juice.
Is this recipe considered street food?
Yes, grilled skewers are a very popular type of Southeast Asian street food.
What makes the chicken tender in this recipe?
The combination of acidic lime juice and the 4-hour marination process helps tenderize the chicken strips.