Welcome to the delicious world of Thai cuisine! Today, we’re diving into the mouthwatering recipe of Kai Yang Bai Toey, also known as Pandan-Wrapped Chicken. This delightful dish is a favorite among many Thai food lovers, and for good reason! The chicken is marinated in a mix of flavors, then wrapped in fragrant pandan leaves and grilled to perfection.
But why is this dish so special? Kai Yang Bai Toey is not just tasty; it also has a rich cultural significance. In Thailand, pandan leaves are often used in cooking for their amazing aroma and flavor. This dish is perfect for celebrations and gatherings, where everyone can enjoy the unique taste of grilled chicken infused with the essence of pandan. Its appeal lies in its beautiful presentation and the delightful surprise of flavors that come from both the chicken and the fragrant leaves. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken thighs | 500 grams |
| Pandan leaves | 10-12 pieces |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Oyster sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Coconut milk | 50 ml |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
You can also substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or tofu for a vegetarian option. If you can’t find pandan leaves, you could use banana leaves as an alternative for wrapping!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, coconut milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Marinate the chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to the marinade. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours in the refrigerator for the best flavor.
- Prepare the pandan leaves: Rinse the pandan leaves thoroughly. Trim the ends and cut each leaf into strips about 2-3 inches wide.
- Wrap the chicken: Take a piece of marinated chicken and place it in the center of a pandan leaf strip. Fold the leaves over to secure the chicken, making sure it’s wrapped tightly. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the pandan-wrapped chicken on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is well cooked and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Carefully unwrap the pandan leaves, and serve the chicken hot with a side of rice and dipping sauce!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 250 | 12% |
| Protein | 20g | 40% |
| Carbohydrates | 12g | 4% |
| Fats | 15g | 23% |
| Sugar | 1g | 1% |
| Sodium | 600mg | 26% |
Tips and Tricks
- Add more flavor: You can include herbs like cilantro or basil in the marinade for extra freshness.
- Don’t skip the marination: Allowing the chicken to marinate longer will enhance its flavor.
- Watch the grill: Keep an eye on the chicken while it cooks to avoid burning the pandan leaves.
- Use bamboo skewers: If you have trouble wrapping, consider using skewers to hold the chicken together.
FAQs
What is Kai Yang Bai Toey?
Kai Yang Bai Toey is a traditional Thai dish made of marinated chicken wrapped in fragrant pandan leaves and grilled to perfection.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Do I have to use pandan leaves?
While pandan leaves add a unique flavor, you can opt for banana leaves if you can’t find pandan leaves.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, let it sit for a few hours in the refrigerator.
Can I grill these in the oven?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, place the wrapped chicken in the oven at 200°C (about 400°F) for 20-25 minutes.
What dipping sauce goes well with this dish?
A simple sweet soy sauce or chili sauce complements Kai Yang Bai Toey perfectly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can marinate and wrap the chicken ahead of time, then grill it when you’re ready to eat.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute chicken with firm tofu or vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 75°C (165°F) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Where can I find pandan leaves?
Pandan leaves can typically be found in Asian grocery stores or in the international section of your local supermarket.
Now that you know how to make this amazing Kai Yang Bai Toey dish, gather your ingredients and enjoy a taste of Thailand right in your own kitchen!
