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Thai Grilled Chicken (Gai Yang) Recipe

4.9 from 96 reviews

Thai Grilled Chicken, known as Gai Yang, is a flavorful and juicy grilled chicken dish marinated in a vibrant blend of garlic, soy sauce, and lime. This classic Thai street food favorite combines savory, tangy, and aromatic notes, perfect for outdoor barbecues or a delicious meal any time of year.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 pounds whole chicken, cut into pieces or 46 chicken thighs

Marinade

  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional for authentic flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, soy sauce, fresh lime juice, fish sauce, black pepper, sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix well until the sugar dissolves and ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C). Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and place on the grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is nicely charred and cooked through. Baste occasionally with leftover marinade if desired, but avoid cross-contamination.
  5. Rest and Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain juices and tenderness. Serve with sticky rice, fresh vegetables, or your favorite Thai dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Marinate overnight for best flavor and tenderness.
  • Adjust lime juice and garlic to your taste preference.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely.
  • Can be cooked using a stovetop grill pan if outdoor grilling is not possible.
  • Fish sauce is optional but adds authentic Thai flavor.

Keywords: Thai grilled chicken, Gai Yang, Thai BBQ chicken, marinated chicken, grilled chicken recipe