Ping Kai is a traditional Laotian dish of marinated grilled chicken, characterized by its savory and aromatic flavors.

How long does Ping Kai take to make?

Ping Kai takes a total time of 132-496 minutes to prepare and cook.

Ping Kai Recipe – Laos's Savory Grilled Chicken

Name: Ping Kai
Prep time: 5 h
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 5 h 14 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Cuisine: Laos
Ingredients: black pepper; brown sugar; cilantro; cloves garlic; drumsticks bone in; fish sauce; lime juice; lime wedges for garnish; oyster sauce; paprika for extra color; pounds 900g chicken thighs; skinless; soy sauce; thumb sized piece of ginger; turmeric powder; vegetable oil

Ping Kai fills the air with smoky, charred aromas as golden chicken emerges from glowing coals with caramelized edges. This time-honored Lao preparation involves marinating chicken in soy, fish sauce, and earthy turmeric before grilling to tender perfection. Served at celebrations, markets, and home fires throughout Laos, Ping Kai represents the essence of communal feasting. The combination of savory marinade and wood smoke creates a deeply satisfying dish.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

2 pounds (900g) chicken thighs or drumsticks, bone-in and skinless
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup fish sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced
1 tablespoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra color)
1-2 tablespoons lime juice (to taste)
Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

Prepare Marinade

In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, turmeric powder, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix well.

Marinate Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Grill Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. Baste with the marinade occasionally for extra flavor.

Garnish

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Serve

Serve the Ping Kai hot with steamed rice or a fresh salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ping Kai?

Ping Kai is a Lao grilled chicken dish where chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, turmeric, and aromatics, then grilled over charcoal until charred and tender.

Where does Ping Kai come from?

Ping Kai is a traditional Laotian dish deeply rooted in Lao culinary culture. It's served at celebrations, street markets, and home gatherings throughout the country as a communal favorite.

What are the main ingredients in Ping Kai?

The marinade combines soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, turmeric powder, ginger, garlic, and black pepper. Chicken thighs or drumsticks hold up best to grilling.

Any tips for making the best Ping Kai?

Marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, for deeper flavor. Grill over medium-high heat for a nice char while keeping the inside juicy. Baste occasionally with reserved marinade.

What do you serve with Ping Kai?

Serve Ping Kai hot with sticky rice, fresh vegetables, lime wedges, and a dipping sauce. The combination makes for an authentic Lao feast.

Ping Kai