Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand right into your kitchen, you’ve come to the right place! Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce is one of those recipes that not only tastes incredible but is also super fun to make. The juicy, marinated chicken skewers paired with a creamy and addictive peanut sauce are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight dinner or planning an impressive spread for family gatherings, this dish has got you covered!

Friends and family alike are always raving about my Chicken Satay! I love how versatile it is—serve it as a delightful appetizer or as part of a hearty main course alongside rice and veggies. Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll want to share it at every occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip this up without any fuss.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults will both enjoy the tasty chicken and creamy sauce!
• Make ahead convenience: Marinate the chicken a day before for extra flavor and easy cooking when you’re ready.
• Perfect for any occasion: Great as an appetizer at parties or served with sides for a satisfying meal.
• Deliciously unique flavor: The combination of spices and peanut butter creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce!

For the Marinade

• 2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs (sliced into 1 1/2 wide strips by 3-5 long)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup coconut milk plus more as needed (may substitute water)
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon chili paste (like Sambal Oelek)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 1/2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

For the Peanut Sauce

• 1/3-1/2 cup smooth peanut butter

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option that still packs tons of flavor!
• Change up the dipping sauce: Experiment with different types of nut butters like almond or cashew for a unique twist.
• Add some heat: If you love spice, add more chili paste or fresh chopped chilies to the marinade.
• Serve with different sides: Pair it with quinoa, noodles, or even a fresh salad instead of rice for variety.

How to Make Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Whisk together all the marinade ingredients in a medium bowl until well combined. Set aside about one-third of this mixture in another bowl—this will become your peanut sauce later! Now, add olive oil to the remaining marinade before tossing in your chicken strips. Coat them evenly and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least six hours (or overnight if you can wait!). This step infuses fantastic flavors into your chicken.

Step 2: Soak Skewers

When you’re ready to cook, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning during cooking. Meanwhile, take your marinated chicken out of the fridge so it can come to room temperature—this helps ensure even cooking later on.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Choose your cooking method! If you’re baking, preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with foil. Spread out your chicken evenly on the sheets and bake for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through. For grilling, heat up your grill and cook each skewer for about 3-4 minutes per side over medium heat until nicely charred. Alternatively, use a skillet by heating olive oil over medium-high heat and cooking skewers for around 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 4: Make the Peanut Sauce

While your chicken cooks, it’s time to make that irresistible peanut sauce! In a small saucepan, combine your reserved marinade mixture with coconut milk or water. Bring it to boil then reduce heat and simmer for just one minute. Stir in peanut butter until fully combined—add more if you want it thicker or more liquid if you’d like it thinner. Adjust seasoning with more chili paste if desired.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Serve your warm chicken skewers drizzled or dipped in peanut sauce. These are perfect as an appetizer or served alongside rice and veggies as an amazing main course! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce

If you’re looking to elevate your Chicken Satay experience, these pro tips will help you create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices can make a world of difference in flavor. Opt for fresh lime juice instead of bottled for a brighter taste and always choose fresh garlic over powder when possible.
• Proper Marination Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavors significantly. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more tender and flavorful it becomes!
• Soak Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers in water prevents them from burning during cooking. This simple step ensures that your skewers stay intact and your chicken cooks perfectly.
• Adjust Peanut Sauce Consistency: Feel free to customize the thickness of your peanut sauce by adding more peanut butter for richness or extra coconut milk to thin it out. This allows you to cater to your personal preference!
• Experiment with Proteins: While this recipe features chicken, don’t hesitate to try other proteins like tofu or shrimp. Each will absorb the marinade beautifully, giving you a variety of tastes and textures.

How to Serve Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce

Serving your Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce is all about presentation and pairing it with delightful accompaniments. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine on any table!

Garnishes

• Chopped Peanuts: Sprinkling chopped peanuts on top adds a lovely crunch and enhances the peanut flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro: A handful of freshly chopped cilantro not only adds color but also brings a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

• Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of satay. Its subtle sweetness balances out the spiciness of the dish.
• Thai Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad made with cucumbers, red onions, and a tangy dressing provides a crisp contrast that brightens up every bite.
• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Lightly steamed veggies add vibrant color and offer a healthy dose of nutrients alongside your satay.
• Rice Noodles: Light and delicate rice noodles tossed in sesame oil make an excellent side that absorbs any leftover peanut sauce beautifully.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll not only impress your guests but also create a balanced meal that everyone will love! Enjoy crafting this delightful dish in your kitchen!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors throughout the week. Plus, it stores well, making it ideal for busy days!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken skewers and peanut sauce in separate airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Once cooled, wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. For the peanut sauce, store it separately in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating

• Thaw chicken skewers overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• For best results, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat on a grill or stovetop skillet until warmed thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce:

Can I use different proteins instead of chicken for this Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef, shrimp, or tofu if you prefer a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly based on the protein you choose.

What can I serve with Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce?

You can serve these delicious skewers as an appetizer or pair them with rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal. They also make a great addition to salads!

How do I make the peanut sauce spicier?

If you like a bit more spice in your Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce, add extra chili paste or red pepper flakes to the sauce according to your taste preference.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes! Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance its flavor even more. Just ensure you keep it stored properly in the fridge.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself to something special, these succulent skewers paired with creamy peanut sauce will surely delight your taste buds. Happy cooking!