What is the best way to cook chicken satay skewers so they are juicy and have a nice char?

Question

What is the best way to cook chicken satay skewers? Learn how to keep them juicy while still getting a nice char from the grill or pan.

Answer 1

Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, grill over medium-high heat, and baste frequently with the marinade or a peanut sauce glaze during the last few minutes of cooking to achieve juicy, charred chicken satay skewers.

Detailed Explanation:

Achieving juicy and charred chicken satay involves a few key steps:

1. Marination: This is crucial for both flavor and moisture. A good marinade typically includes ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, ginger, turmeric, lemongrass, and a touch of sweetness (brown sugar or honey). Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight, in the refrigerator. The longer the marination, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be.
2. Chicken Preparation: Cut the chicken into small, uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking. Thread the chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece. Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling prevents them from burning.
3. Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the skewers for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char. Avoid overcrowding the grill; work in batches if necessary.
4. Basting: During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the chicken skewers with the marinade or a peanut sauce glaze. This adds flavor, moisture, and helps create a beautiful caramelized char. Be careful not to baste too early, as the sugars in the marinade can burn.
5. Resting: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier chicken.

Pro Tip:

To prevent the chicken from drying out, consider using chicken thighs instead of chicken breast. Chicken thighs have a higher fat content, which helps them stay moist during grilling.