Introduction

Give your BBQ chicken a fresh, aromatic twist with this lemongrass coconut curry recipe. Grilling on the Arteflame ensures juicy chicken with a smoky, caramelized crust, while the creamy coconut curry sauce, infused with fragrant lemongrass, adds depth and complexity to every bite. This dish combines tropical flavors with the perfect sear, making it a showstopper at any cookout.

Ingredients

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for grill prep)
• 2 tbsp butter (for searing)
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tbsp red curry paste (or yellow curry powder)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 stalk fresh lemongrass, finely chopped
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Fresh cilantro or Thai basil for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

Prepare the Arteflame grill by soaking three paper napkins in vegetable oil and placing them in the grill. Stack firewood on top of the napkins and light the grill. Allow it to heat for 20 minutes to reach the ideal temperature for searing the chicken.

2. Prepare the Lemongrass Coconut Curry Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, red curry paste, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, ground ginger, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the finely chopped lemongrass, making sure it’s well incorporated. This sauce will be used to glaze the chicken as it grills and to serve on the side. Set aside.

3. Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry to help achieve crispy skin. Season generously with salt and pepper. Melt the butter on the center grate of the grill. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the hot center grate and sear for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden-brown. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for another 2 minutes.

4. Move to the Flat Top and Glaze with Lemongrass Coconut Curry Sauce

After searing, move the chicken thighs to the flat top portion of the Arteflame grill, adjusting their placement depending on the heat zones for even cooking. Begin basting the chicken thighs generously with the lemongrass coconut curry sauce, flipping and basting every few minutes. Continue grilling for 15-20 minutes, until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.

5. Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the grill once it reaches an internal temperature of 150°F and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh cilantro or Thai basil, and serve with extra lemongrass coconut curry sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips for Success

• High Heat Sear: Searing the chicken on the hottest part of the center grate locks in juices and creates a delicious crispy skin.
• Frequent Basting: Regularly brush the chicken with the lemongrass coconut curry sauce to build up layers of flavor and a caramelized glaze.
• Lemongrass Preparation: For a strong citrusy flavor, finely chop the inner stalk of fresh lemongrass, avoiding the tough outer layers.

5 Variations of Lemongrass Coconut Curry BBQ Chicken

1. Spicy Lemongrass Coconut Curry Chicken: Increase the amount of red curry paste and cayenne pepper for an extra spicy version.
2. Sweet Lemongrass Coconut Chicken: Add more honey or brown sugar for a sweeter glaze.
3. Thai Basil Lemongrass Coconut Chicken: Add fresh chopped Thai basil to the sauce for an authentic Thai flavor.
4. Ginger Lemongrass Coconut Chicken: Add fresh grated ginger to the sauce for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
5. Lemongrass Coconut Chicken Wings: Use this recipe for chicken wings instead of thighs for a fun and shareable appetizer.

Best Pairings

• Jasmine or coconut rice to soak up the sauce
• Grilled bok choy or asparagus for a smoky, vegetable side
• Cucumber and mango salad with lime vinaigrette
• Grilled pineapple or mango for a tropical dessert

Conclusion

Grilled BBQ chicken thighs with lemongrass coconut curry sauce are a delicious fusion of tropical flavors and smoky BBQ goodness. The creamy coconut curry sauce with a hint of lemongrass balances the rich, juicy chicken, making it an irresistible dish for any cookout.