Chicken Satay Thai Peanut: 1 Glorious Recipe

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Chicken Satay Thai Peanut has this incredible ability to transport me straight to a bustling street food market in Bangkok. I remember the first time I tried it – the smoky char of the perfectly grilled chicken, the irresistible aroma of toasted peanuts and spices, and that unbelievably creamy, slightly spicy sauce. It was love at first bite! Making this easy chicken satay peanut recipe at home has become a weekend tradition for me, and the vibrant flavors always bring a smile to my face. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Satay Thai Peanut

This chicken satay recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

• The flavor is absolutely incredible, a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and a hint of spice.
• It’s surprisingly quick to make, with minimal prep time and fast grilling.
• The cook time is super short, meaning dinner is on the table in under 30 minutes.
• It’s a healthier option, packed with lean protein and healthy fats from the peanut sauce.
• This dish is budget-friendly, using common pantry staples for maximum flavor.
• Kids and adults alike adore this meal, making it a fantastic family-friendly option.
• The accompanying Thai peanut sauce for chicken satay is so versatile, you’ll want to use it on everything!
• You’ll be amazed at how authentic and delicious this Thai peanut sauce for chicken satay tastes, just like your favorite restaurant.

Ingredients for Chicken Satay Thai Peanut

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to unlocking the amazing flavors of this dish. You’ll need a few things for the marinade and then the components for the luscious peanut sauce. I always make sure my chicken thighs are boneless and skinless for ease, and soaking the skewers is a must to prevent burning!

• 0.5 cup coconut milk – the base for our tenderizing marinade
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – for that essential salty umami
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – adds a touch of sweetness to balance the marinade
• 2 tablespoons lime juice – brightens everything up
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – for aromatic depth
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger – a warm, zesty kick
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander – adds a subtle earthy note
• 0.5 teaspoon ground turmeric – for color and a hint of warmth
• 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, sliced into strips – the star of the show!
• 8 – 10 wooden skewers (soaked if using) – essential for grilling
• 0.5 cup peanut butter – the heart of our creamy sauce; creamy works best for smooth chicken satay peanut sauce ingredients
• 0.5 cup coconut milk – adds richness to the sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce – for seasoning the sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – a tangy counterpoint
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – to sweeten the sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce or sriracha (adjust to taste) – for that signature heat
• 2 – 4 tablespoons water (to thin as needed) – to get the perfect sauce consistency
• 1 clove garlic, minced – more garlic for the sauce!
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger – for that fresh ginger flavor in the sauce

How to Make Chicken Satay Thai Peanut

Get ready to create some seriously delicious chicken satay! It’s easier than you think, and the results are so rewarding. Let’s dive into the steps for making this amazing dish.

1. Step 1: Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures your chicken gets a beautiful char and cooks evenly.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the marinade ingredients: half a cup of coconut milk, two tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of brown sugar, two tablespoons of lime juice, three minced garlic cloves, one tablespoon of grated ginger, one teaspoon of ground coriander, and half a teaspoon of ground turmeric.
3. Step 3: Add your chicken strips to this fragrant marinade. Give it a good toss to make sure every piece is coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or even better, overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
4. Step 4: While the chicken marinates, soak your wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes. This little trick prevents them from burning up on the hot grill.
5. Step 5: Once the chicken is ready, thread the marinated strips onto the soaked skewers. Don’t pack them too tightly; leave a little space so they cook evenly.
6. Step 6: Now, let’s talk about making that incredible peanut sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine all the peanut sauce ingredients: half a cup of peanut butter, half a cup of coconut milk, one tablespoon of soy sauce, one tablespoon of rice vinegar, one tablespoon of brown sugar, one tablespoon of chili garlic sauce (or sriracha – adjust this to your heat preference!), one minced garlic clove, and one teaspoon of grated fresh ginger. Stir constantly until everything is smooth and warmed through. This is a key part of how to make chicken satay Thai peanut sauce.
7. Step 7: Gradually add two to four tablespoons of water to the sauce, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. You want it creamy and dippable, not too thick or too thin. Getting this right is essential for how to make chicken satay Thai peanut sauce perfectly.
8. Step 8: Place the skewered chicken onto the preheated grill. Grill for about 3–4 minutes per side. You’re looking for that gorgeous golden-brown color and a nice smoky char. The chicken should be cooked through.
9. Step 9: Remove the chicken skewers from the grill and serve them hot with the warm peanut sauce on the side. For an extra touch, you can garnish with some chopped peanuts or fresh cilantro. Enjoy your homemade chicken satay Thai peanut!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Satay Thai Peanut

Want to elevate your chicken satay game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference. Following these simple tips will help you achieve that perfect balance of flavor and texture every time.

• For the most tender and flavorful chicken, marinate it overnight. This allows the spices and coconut milk to really penetrate the meat, making it incredibly moist.
• When making the peanut sauce, use creamy peanut butter. It blends much smoother and creates that luxurious texture that’s essential for an authentic Thai chicken satay peanut recipe.
• Don’t skip soaking your wooden skewers! This prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring your chicken is perfectly cooked without any burnt skewer bits.
• Grill the chicken over medium-high heat. This high heat sears the outside quickly, giving you those delicious grill marks and a slightly smoky flavor without overcooking the inside.

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Satay Thai Peanut?

The real secret is the marinade and the sauce! A good marinade tenderizes the chicken, while the right balance of creamy peanut butter, coconut milk, and spices creates the best chicken satay Thai peanut sauce. Don’t rush these steps!

Can I make Chicken Satay Thai Peanut ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and marinade it up to 24 hours in advance using this chicken satay marinade peanut sauce recipe. Store it covered in the fridge. You can also make the peanut sauce a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For more information on food safety, you can check out resources from the FDA.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Satay Thai Peanut?

A common pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which makes it dry. Watch it closely on the grill! Also, ensure your peanut sauce isn’t too thick; thin it with a little water until it’s perfectly dippable. Make sure your skewers are soaked to prevent burning. For tips on grilling, you might find helpful advice on Serious Eats.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Satay Thai Peanut

Serving up this chicken satay is all about creating a vibrant, satisfying meal. The smoky, tender chicken skewers are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right sides really makes the meal sing. My absolute favorite way to enjoy these is with a side of fluffy jasmine rice; it’s the perfect canvas for that rich peanut sauce.

Another fantastic option is a crisp, refreshing cucumber salad. The cool crunch of the cucumbers cuts through the richness of the chicken and sauce beautifully. If you’re wondering what to serve with chicken satay peanut sauce, think about textures and flavors that complement the sweet, savory, and slightly spicy profile. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans also make a great addition for a well-rounded dish. For more serving ideas, check out our homepage.

Nutrition Facts for Chicken Satay Thai Peanut

Here are the estimated nutritional details per serving for this delicious Chicken Satay Thai Peanut dish. These figures give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 720mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information about our practices, please see our privacy policy.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Satay Thai Peanut

Leftover chicken satay is a treat, and knowing how to store and reheat it properly ensures you can enjoy that deliciousness later. Once your chicken skewers have cooled down completely, transfer them to an airtight container. For the best quality, store the finished Thai style chicken satay peanut dish in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze the cooled skewers in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label it clearly!

When you’re ready to reheat, the microwave is a quick option for a single serving, just heat until warmed through. For a slightly crispier texture, you can reheat the chicken skewers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until heated through. The peanut sauce can also be gently reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. For any questions, feel free to contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Satay Thai Peanut

How spicy is this Chicken Satay Thai Peanut recipe?

The spice level in this chicken satay can be easily adjusted! The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of chili garlic sauce or sriracha in the peanut sauce, which gives it a nice kick. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with just 1 teaspoon, or omit it entirely if you’re sensitive to heat. For those who love it really spicy, feel free to add more!

Can I make a simple Thai peanut chicken satay without a grill?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill or prefer not to use one, you can easily adapt this recipe. You can bake the chicken skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and slightly browned. Alternatively, a grill pan on the stovetop works wonderfully to achieve those lovely char marks.

What are some other dipping sauces I can serve with Chicken Satay Thai Peanut?

While the peanut sauce is undeniably the star, you can offer other options too! A sweet chili sauce is a classic pairing and provides a different kind of sweetness. A simple cucumber yogurt sauce, made with plain yogurt, grated cucumber, a touch of garlic, and mint, offers a cooling contrast to the rich peanut sauce. These variations make your spread even more exciting! You can learn more about our about me page.

Is this a healthy Chicken Satay Thai Peanut dish?

Overall, this is a relatively healthy dish, especially considering its bold flavors! It’s packed with lean protein from the chicken thighs and healthy fats from the peanut butter and coconut milk. The marinade also uses fresh ginger and garlic, which have beneficial properties. You can make it even healthier by using lower-sodium soy sauce and adjusting the sugar in the sauce to your preference. For our terms of use, please see here.

Variations of Chicken Satay Thai Peanut You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, why not get a little creative? There are so many ways to put your own spin on this fantastic dish. Experimenting with different flavors and methods is part of the fun!

• Nut-Free Version: If you have nut allergies or just want a change, swap the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini. You’ll still get a wonderfully rich and flavorful sauce, creating a delicious creamy Thai peanut chicken satay without the nuts.
• Oven-Baked Satay: No grill? No problem! Arrange the skewered chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and nicely browned.
• Spicy Kick-Up: Love it extra hot? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few extra dashes of sriracha to both the marinade and the peanut sauce. You can also add finely minced Thai chilies to the marinade for an authentic spicy heat.
• Herbaceous Twist: For a brighter flavor profile, try adding chopped fresh cilantro or mint to the peanut sauce just before serving. It adds a wonderful fresh aroma and taste that complements the savory notes beautifully.

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