If you’re looking for the perfect blend of savory and spicy, the “Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce” will be your new go-to recipe. Imagine tender chicken infused with the rich flavors of a homemade peanut sauce, grilled to perfection. This dish is an explosion of taste that will transport your taste buds straight to Southeast Asia.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: Each bite is packed with a perfect combination of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses easy-to-find ingredients that deliver authentic taste without the complexity.
- Versatile Preparation: Perfect for grilling or broiling, making it adaptable to any season or kitchen setting.
- Crowd Pleaser: This dish is perfect for dinner parties or family gatherings, sure to impress everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it simple yet delicious, relying on staple ingredients that deliver big on flavor. Each element, from the peanut butter to the fresh ginger, is chosen to complement and elevate the dish’s taste and texture.
- Creamy Peanut Butter: Choose one with only peanuts or peanuts and salt for an authentic base flavor.
- Unsweetened Coconut Milk: Full-fat from a can adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Adds a zesty brightness that balances the richness of the coconut and peanut.
- Fish Sauce: Consider using low-sodium soy sauce as a substitute for a less intense flavor.
- Dark Brown Sugar: The molasses notes provide depth and a hint of sweetness.
- Fresh Ginger & Garlic: Fresh ingredients will give your dish a more vibrant and aromatic profile.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These stay juicy and tender during grilling, offering the perfect protein to absorb the savory marinade.
Variations
Whether you’re cooking for special dietary needs or looking to experiment with flavors, Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is easily customizable. Here are some ideas to get you started!
- Spicy Satay: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of Sriracha for more heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken with tofu, adjusting marinade times accordingly.
- Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for those with allergies.
How to Make Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Step 1: Make the Peanut Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, coconut milk, lime juice, fish sauce, dark brown sugar, grated fresh ginger, chopped garlic, and a touch of red pepper flakes. Set aside a cup of this indulgent sauce, which will serve as a dip for your cooked chicken satay.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and immerse them in the remaining peanut sauce. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour, up to 8 hours, to fully soak up all those incredible flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the Skewers
While the chicken is marinating, soak bamboo skewers in warm water for about 30 minutes. This will prevent them from burning during cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers. Grill or broil each skewer for 2-3 minutes per side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
- Ingredient Selection: For the richest sauce, select coconut milk with no added gums or stabilizers.
- Perfect Temperature: Ensure the grill or broiler is preheated to prevent the chicken from sticking and to achieve those perfect grill marks.
- Quick Prep: Prepare your peanut sauce a day ahead to save time and allow flavors to develop.
- Make Ahead: Marinate chicken overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
How to Serve Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Garnishes
Enhance the visual appeal and flavor by sprinkling the dish with crushed peanuts and freshly chopped cilantro. These garnishes not only add a burst of color but also a delightful crunch and freshness that’s irresistible.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of fragrant jasmine rice or a fresh cucumber salad. The rice will soak up the tasty peanut sauce, while the cucumber salad adds a refreshing coolness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the chicken skewers on a wooden board with a small dipping bowl of peanut sauce on the side. Consider adding a few lime wedges to brighten the flavors with a citrusy kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate leftover chicken satay in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The peanut sauce can be stored separately in a sealed jar for up to 4 days. Reheat the chicken gently to maintain its juiciness.
Freezing
Freeze marinated chicken prior to cooking by placing it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw completely in the refrigerator before threading onto skewers and cooking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, allow the chicken satay to come to room temperature, then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and flavor without drying out the chicken.
FAQs
-
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, though they may be drier compared to thighs. Be sure to adjust cooking times slightly to avoid overcooking.
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Is there a vegetarian substitute for fish sauce?
Absolutely! You can use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari as a vegetarian alternative to fish sauce.
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How can I make the peanut sauce spicier?
For more spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the peanut sauce until you reach your desired heat level.
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Can I grill chicken satay outdoors?
Of course! Outdoor grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the chicken. Just ensure your grill is clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re new to satay or a seasoned fan, this Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and a hit with both adults and kids alike. Give it a try and see how it livens up your dinner table!
PrintChicken Satay with Peanut Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai
Description
A flavorful Thai-inspired dish featuring tender chicken satay skewers marinated in fragrant spices, grilled to perfection, and served with a creamy peanut dipping sauce for a perfect appetizer or main course.
Ingredients
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (peanuts only, or peanuts and salt)
- 1 cup unsweetened, full-fat coconut milk (from a can)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or low-sodium soy sauce)
- 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 4 medium)
Serving Suggestions (All Optional):
- Crushed peanuts
- Chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Make peanut sauce: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, lime juice, fish sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes until smooth. Reserve 1 cup of the sauce for dipping.
- Marinate chicken: Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Toss with the remaining peanut sauce in a bowl. Marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Soak skewers: Soak bamboo skewers in warm water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
- Thread skewers: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, dividing evenly.
- Broil or grill: Preheat broiler or grill. Cook chicken skewers for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Sprinkle with crushed peanuts and chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately with the reserved peanut sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter made with only peanuts or peanuts and salt for authentic flavor.
- Use unsweetened, full-fat coconut milk from a can, not a carton, for richer sauce.
- Soaking bamboo skewers prevents them from burning during grilling or broiling.
- Leftover chicken satay can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven.
- Leftover peanut sauce can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days and used as a dip or spread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer with sauce
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg