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Ultimate Thai BBQ Chicken Gai Yang

Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this authentic BBQ Chicken Gai Yang recipe, marinated to perfection and grilled for a smoky finish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 1 whole bone-in, skin-on chicken breast Fresh organic chicken is recommended.
  • 2 pieces chicken hindquarters (thigh and drumstick combo)
Marinade
  • 1.5 tsp white peppercorns Freshly ground for best flavor.
  • 2 tsp toasted coriander seeds Toast them lightly for a unique flavor.
  • 1 stalk lemongrass, bottom half, thinly sliced Fresh lemongrass is key.
  • 5 cloves garlic Peeled and crushed.
  • 3 Tbsp soy sauce Use low-sodium for a healthier option.
  • 3 Tbsp fish sauce Choose quality brands.
  • 1 Tbsp black soy sauce
  • 1 Tbsp sugar Brown sugar works wonderfully here.
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 Tbsp neutral oil Grapeseed or canola are ideal.
  • 2 Tbsp Thai tamarind paste Found in Asian grocery stores.
  • 1 Tbsp palm sugar, finely chopped Adds a deeper sweetness.
Dipping Sauce
  • 1 Tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 Tbsp lime juice Freshly squeezed is best.
  • to taste Chili flakes For a spicy kick.
  • 1 Tbsp shallots, finely chopped
  • 1 Tbsp green onion, chopped
  • 3 sprigs cilantro, chopped
  • 1 Tbsp toasted rice powder For extra crunch in the dipping sauce.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Grind the white peppercorns and coriander seeds into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a coffee grinder.
  2. Add the lemongrass and garlic; pound until it forms a fine paste.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and add the remaining marinade ingredients: soy sauce, fish sauce, black soy sauce, sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Chicken Prep
  1. Split the bone-in chicken breast in half and separate the thighs from the drumsticks. Trim any excess skin from the thighs.
Marination
  1. Place the chicken pieces in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and ensure each piece is well coated. Marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. Flip the bag or turn the chicken halfway through for even marination.
Dipping Sauce
  1. In a dry skillet, toast raw rice over medium heat until dark brown. Let it cool, then grind it into a powder.
  2. In a bowl, combine tamarind paste, fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar until dissolved. Add chili flakes and shallots. Stir in green onions and cilantro, then gently fold in the toasted rice powder right before serving.
Grilling
  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
  2. Grill the chicken skin-side up, turning every 5 minutes. The cooking time will vary, taking about 18-30 minutes. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer: 160°F for breast, 175°F for thighs/drums. The skin should be beautifully charred and crisp.

Notes

Timing is everything: for perfectly cooked chicken, allow it to marinate longer if possible—up to 24 hours enhances the flavors even more. Rest the chicken for about 5 minutes after grilling to lock in the juices.