Introduction
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine with this delightful recipe for marinated chicken thighs. The combination of fresh herbs, zesty lime, and umami-rich fish sauce elevates simple chicken into a dish bursting with taste. Perfect for the grill, this recipe not only highlights the beautiful aromatic qualities of Thai basil and cilantro but also offers a quick and easy way to enjoy a satisfying meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/3 cup chopped fresh Thai basil
1/4 cup fish sauce
3 green onions, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons canola oil
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
1 tablespoon grated lime zest
1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs
Salt and ground black pepper to taste
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 to 20 minutes
Total Time: 8 hours (including marination)
Yield: Serves 4
To prepare, start by making a vibrant marinade that combines fresh herbs, fish sauce, and zesty lime flavors. Marinate the chicken thighs for optimal flavor absorption, and then grill them to perfection. Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite sides and relish the burst of Thai-inspired taste!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped cilantro, Thai basil, fish sauce, sliced green onions, canola oil, lime juice, lime zest, dark brown sugar, grated ginger, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a gallon-sized zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight, turning occasionally.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.
Step 4: Remove Excess Marinade
Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken on the preheated grill. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Tip 1:
Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Tip 2:
If you prefer a spicier marinade, consider adding some chopped chili or red pepper flakes.
Tip 3:
You can serve the grilled chicken with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tip 4:
For meal prep, the marinated chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Combine fresh herbs, fish sauce, lime juice, and spices to create a flavorful marinade. Ensure the chicken is well-coated and let it sit for at least 8 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Grilling
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill and cook them thoroughly, turning occasionally for even cooking until they reach the desired internal temperature.
Resting
After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat remains moist and flavorful when served.
FAQ
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts or drumsticks, but cooking times may vary.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 8 hours or overnight.
What if I don’t have fish sauce?
You can substitute fish sauce with soy sauce, but the flavor will differ slightly.
Can I grill the chicken indoors?
If you do not have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil it in the oven.
How can I tell when the chicken is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should no longer be pink in the center.
Conclusion
The combination of fresh herbs and flavorful seasonings in this Thai Chicken Thigh recipe creates a delightful dish that is sure to please. The marinade adds a rich depth of flavor, while the grilling process ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender. Perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is a celebration of bold, aromatic Thai cuisine.
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