What is Thai grilled chicken called?

Thai grilled chicken is commonly known as Gai Yang in Thailand. This name translates simply to “grilled chicken,” but it’s more than just a cooking method — it’s a cultural dish deeply tied to Thailand’s street food scene. Gai Yang is enjoyed throughout the country, often served with sticky rice, spicy dipping sauces, and fresh vegetables. Thai BBQ Chicken is essentially Gai Yang , adapted for both traditional and modern kitchens worldwide.

Is Thai barbecue chicken healthy?

Thai BBQ Chicken can be a healthy meal when prepared with fresh ingredients and grilled instead of fried. The marinade uses natural flavor boosters like lemongrass, garlic, and lime juice, which add depth without excess calories. Choosing skinless chicken and limiting sugar in the marinade can make it even lighter. Pairing it with fresh vegetables or salads instead of large portions of rice helps keep the meal balanced and nutrient-rich.

What is a Thai barbecue?

A Thai barbecue refers to a style of grilling that combines marinated meats, fresh herbs, and traditional Thai seasonings, often cooked over charcoal for a distinct smoky flavor. In Thailand, barbecues are as much about community as they are about food — street vendors, family gatherings, and festivals often feature sizzling grills filled with chicken, pork, or seafood. Thai BBQ Chicken, or Gai Yang , is one of the most beloved examples, showcasing the perfect balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors.

What goes with Thai barbecue chicken?

Thai BBQ Chicken pairs beautifully with sticky rice, a staple in Thai cuisine that soaks up the flavorful juices from the grilled meat. Another classic side is green papaya salad, which offers a refreshing, spicy-sour crunch to balance the smoky sweetness of the chicken. Fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and Thai basil can be served alongside for added aroma. If you prefer a heartier plate, jasmine rice or even a light noodle salad with vegetables can complement the dish perfectly.

Thai BBQ Chicken – The Best Delicious Recipe You’ll Ever Try

Description

Juicy and flavorful grilled chicken thigh fillets marinated in a fragrant blend of lemongrass, garlic, lime, fish sauce, and spices, perfect for an Asian-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lb / 1 kg chicken thigh fillets, skinless and boneless
1 large lemongrass stalk, white part only, very finely chopped (about 2 tbsp)
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp lime juice
2 tsp finely chopped red chili (optional but recommended)
3 tbsp fish sauce
2 tbsp Chinese cooking wine, sherry, or sake
1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
3 tbsp brown sugar or palm sugar
2 tbsp honey (or 1 tbsp brown sugar)
1/2 tbsp black pepper, adjust to taste
Lime wedges, for serving
Red chili, finely sliced (optional)
Cilantro / coriander leaves (optional)

Instructions

Place all marinade ingredients in a large ziplock bag and massage to mix well.
Add chicken thighs to the bag and massage again to coat evenly with the marinade.
Marinate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight (up to 24 hours) in the refrigerator.
Remove chicken from marinade and discard marinade unless baking in the oven (see notes).
Heat an outdoor grill over medium-high heat, or heat 1/2 tbsp oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat on the stove.
Cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 3 minutes per side.
Rest chicken for a few minutes before serving with lime wedges, and garnish with fresh chili and cilantro if desired.

Notes

Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Only the white part of lemongrass should be used for best flavor; discard tough outer layers.
If baking in the oven, the reserved marinade can be reduced into a sauce.
Adjust chili and black pepper levels based on your spice preference.
Marinating overnight will yield the most flavorful results.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 135mg

Keywords: grilled lemongrass chicken, Asian chicken recipe, marinade chicken thighs