A classic Thai street food, this grilled Thai Chicken is so good that it almost converted a vegetarian. True story.

If you’re feeling inspired, indulge in a Thai banquet with this Thai Chicken complete with Coconut Rice or Coconut Lime Rice, a starter of Thai Lettuce Wraps and how about a Thai Red Curry or Green Curry?

Traditional Thai Chicken

The marinade for this chicken is insane. It really is. The flavour is so good and I honestly think you’ll regret it if you don’t make a double batch. Because I promise, you will eat more than your fair share.

I call this “real” Thai Grilled chicken because it’s on the right side of that “line” between authentic and westernised. As with any traditional dish from any country or region in the world, there is no such thing as “the” recipe. Whether it be fried rice, chili con carne, paella, bolognaise or a beef bourguignon, there are countless variations, from family recipes passed down through generations to high end modern interpretations by top chefs around the world.

BUT….there’s a line. A line between a recipe staying true to its roots and being completely westernised. Not that there is anything wrong with westernising something. In fact, some of the most popular (and delicious!) Asian dishes in western countries aren’t even found in Asia – like Singapore noodles.

This Thai Grilled Chicken is a classic example of staying on the authentic side of the “line”. Even throughout Thailand, there are so many variations of Gai Yang. Different from region to region, restaurants to street food vendors to home style versions. But there are two key ingredients that make this authentic Thai – lemongrass and fish sauce. Omit either of these, and you can’t call it “real”!

In addition to lemongrass and fish sauce, the marinade for this chicken is packed full of other classic Thai ingredients – loads of garlic, a touch of sweet and a great hit of chili.

Traditionally, Gai Yang is served with a dipping sauce. I like making this with chicken thighs because it is such a juicy cut. And with such juicy chicken with a thick glaze on it, I find that a dipping sauce is not necessary. So instead, I incorporate the flavour of the dipping sauce into the Marinade.

Throughout Thailand, you’ll find Gai Yang made with different cuts of chicken and even butterflied whole chicken (my favourite – except I can’t get through a whole chook myself!!). You can make this with you favorited chicken cut, just adjust the cooking time. It is traditionally cooked over hot coals so you get that wonderful smokey flavour. But whether you cook this on your grill or even on your stove top, I promise you one thing – this will be the BEST Thai grilled chicken you’ve ever had. I really am not exaggerating when I say this almost converted a vegetarian into a carnivore.

Happy grilling! – Nagi x

MAKE A MEAL OUT OF IT – SERVE THESE ON THE SIDE

Steamed Jasmine rice, Thai Fried Rice, Pineapple Fried Rice or Coconut Rice
Crunchy Asian Slaw on the side – great all rounder Asian salad that goes with all Asian foods
Asian Sesame Dressing for any fresh salad or steamed vegetables
Asian Mushroom Ramen Noodles – another great all rounder!

And more of my favourite Asian Chicken recipes

All these are ideal for grilling but can also be cooked on the stove

Thai Satay Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Yakitori Chicken – Japanese chicken skewers on my mother’s Japanese recipe website, RecipeTin Japan
Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken – infused with beautiful Vietnamese lemongrass flavours
Thai Coconut Chicken – added richness and flavour from a coconut marinade
Asian Chicken – marinated in a great Asian marinade that’s sweet sand savoury