Authentic Thai Grilled Chicken, known as Gai Yang in Thai, is a popular street food delicacy that combines the unique flavors of Thailand into a juicy, flavorful dish. Marinated in a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection, Gai Yang is often served with sticky rice and a spicy dipping sauce. Here’s how to make this delicious Thai grilled chicken at home, bringing a taste of Thailand to your backyard barbecue.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) or a whole chicken, cut into parts
- 1 tablespoon white pepper (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons coriander seeds, crushed
- 1 tablespoon lemongrass, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon galangal or ginger, finely minced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Dipping Sauce (Nam Jim Jaew):
- 2 tablespoons tamarind concentrate
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon toasted rice powder (optional for texture and nuttiness)
- 2 tablespoons shallots, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped