Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce: A Delicious and Easy Thai-Inspired Recipe
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
If you’re looking for a tasty easy dinner option packed with flavor chicken satay with peanut sauce is a must-try dish. Originating in Southeast Asia this Thai-inspired recipe has become a popular choice in kitchens around the world thanks to its delicious combination of marinated chicken grilled to perfection and paired with a creamy nut-based dipping sauce. With the use of coconut milk fresh lime juice and roasted peanuts this recipe brings together tropical flavors with savory and tangy notes creating a balance that’s satisfying and easy to achieve.
What is Chicken Satay?
Chicken satay consists of tender marinated chicken skewers that are grilled or barbecued often served as an appetizer or main dish. Traditionally the chicken is marinated in a combination of spices and coconut milk then grilled over an open flame for a charred smoky flavor. Paired with a savory peanut sauce the dish is elevated to a whole new level. Chicken thighs are often preferred for their juiciness and rich flavor though chicken breasts work well too. The cooking time is minimal making it a quick meal option perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients for Chicken Satay
This recipe calls for ingredients you can likely find at your local grocery store or Asian market including:
- Chicken Thighs: Opt for chicken thighs as they’re more flavorful and tend to stay tender when grilled. If preferred chicken breasts can also be used.
- Coconut Milk: Coconut milk adds a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness to the marinade infusing the chicken with a tropical flavor.
- Peanut Sauce: The dipping sauce is a creamy nut-based sauce made from peanut butter lime juice and a few additional ingredients to create a balanced flavorful accompaniment.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds a tangy brightness to the dish and balances the richness of the peanut sauce.
Step-by-Step Recipe: Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken marinade. In a mixing bowl whisk together coconut milk fresh lime juice and a blend of spices like turmeric garlic ginger and a touch of brown sugar. This marinade will tenderize the chicken and infuse it with a delicious flavor. Cut your chicken thighs or breasts into even bite-sized pieces then let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for even more flavor). Marinating the chicken in coconut milk and spices helps create juicy tender chicken that’s perfect for skewering.
Step 2: Prepare the Skewers
Once the chicken is marinated thread the pieces onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers be sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill. Skewering the chicken makes it easy to handle on the grill and gives it the classic look of chicken satay.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Heat up your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat then add the skewered chicken. Cook each skewer for about 3–4 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Grilled chicken skewers are best when they have a slight char which adds a smoky flavor to the chicken satay. The cooking time can vary based on the thickness of the chicken so keep an eye on it and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 4: Make the Peanut Sauce
While the chicken is grilling prepare the peanut sauce. In a small saucepan combine peanut butter coconut milk lime juice a dash of soy sauce and a pinch of chili flakes. Stir the mixture over low heat until it becomes smooth and creamy. This peanut sauce is both savory and slightly sweet with a hint of spiciness that complements the grilled chicken perfectly. For added texture garnish with roasted peanuts or a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as cilantro.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Arrange the chicken skewers on a platter with a side of peanut sauce for dipping. Sprinkle some roasted peanuts on top of the sauce or over the skewers for added crunch. Serve your chicken satay with a wedge of lime to add a fresh citrus twist. It’s a dish that looks as good as it tastes!
Tips for the Best Chicken Satay
- Choose Dark Meat: Chicken thighs are ideal because they stay juicy even after grilling. If you prefer chicken breasts consider shortening the cooking time to avoid drying them out.
- Marinate for Flavor: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes ensures it absorbs the spices and flavors fully. If possible marinate the chicken overnight in the fridge for even better results.
- Grill to Perfection: For the best grilled chicken aim for a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside tender. Cooking on medium-high heat helps achieve this balance.
- Customize the Peanut Sauce: Adjust the spice level of the peanut sauce by adding more or less chili flakes. If you prefer a sweeter sauce add a touch more sugar or a dash of honey.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken satay with peanut sauce can be enjoyed as a standalone appetizer or as part of a larger meal. It pairs wonderfully with:
- Cucumber Salad: The fresh crisp taste of cucumber salad balances the rich flavors of the peanut sauce.
- Rice: Serve with jasmine rice or sticky rice to soak up the delicious peanut sauce.
- Thai Noodles: For a heartier meal pair your chicken satay with Thai noodles tossed in a light soy or sesame dressing.
Final Thoughts
Making chicken satay with peanut sauce at home is easier than you might think and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with a quick and easy preparation time. The combination of marinated chicken thighs a creamy peanut dipping sauce and the subtle sweetness of coconut milk make it an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion.Whether you’re cooking for family entertaining guests or simply craving something flavorful chicken satay is a great choice.
