If you’re looking to impress at your next BBQ, this Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is a must-try. Juicy, flavorful chicken skewers are marinated in a fragrant Thai-inspired blend and grilled to perfection. Served with a rich, creamy peanut sauce, this dish is nutty, savory, and absolutely irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
This dish captures the essence of bold flavors and easy preparation.
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready for your guests.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of coconut milk, red curry paste, and peanut butter creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for a BBQ, weeknight dinner, or even as an appetizer at parties.
- Healthy Option: Made with lean chicken and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is a healthier alternative to other grilled dishes.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Preparation of Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce requires some essential tools.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Medium saucepan
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on the chicken.
- Mixing bowls: Necessary for marinating the chicken and mixing the peanut sauce efficiently.
- Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for both marinade and sauce.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Satay Skewers:
- 1⁄3 cup coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄4 teaspoon white pepper
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken (thighs, breasts, or tenders), cut into 1-inch strips
- 16 skewers
For the Peanut Sauce:
- 1⁄2 cup peanut butter
- 1⁄4 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
For Serving:
- Chopped roasted peanuts
- Sliced red chilis
- Lime wedges
- Cilantro leaves
How to Make Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, soy sauce, red curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, garlic, curry powder, salt, and white pepper until smooth. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat:
1. Combine the peanut butter, coconut milk, brown sugar, red curry paste, soy sauce, fish sauce, and lime juice.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring to a simmer while stirring frequently for about 5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Skewers
If using wooden skewers:
– Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
– Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers while discarding any leftover marinade.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a grill pan:
– Add 1-2 tablespoons of oil to prevent sticking.
– Grill the chicken skewers for 3-4 minutes per side until lightly charred and fully cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve the chicken satay skewers warm with the peanut sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped peanuts, sliced red chilis, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
When it comes to serving Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce, presentation and garnishes can elevate the experience. Pairing your satay with the right accompaniments can enhance its flavors and create a memorable meal.
Garnish Ideas
- Chopped Roasted Peanuts: Sprinkle these on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Sliced Red Chilis: Add fresh chilis for a spicy kick that balances the richness of the peanut sauce.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the savory elements.
- Fresh Cilantro Leaves: Use cilantro for a fresh herbal note that complements the dish beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine rice to soak up the delicious peanut sauce.
- As Appetizers: Cut the skewers into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking at parties or gatherings.
- In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, wrap chicken satay in lettuce leaves for a refreshing twist.
- On a Salad: Add sliced chicken satay atop a green salad for a healthy, filling meal.
How to Perfect Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
To make your Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce truly stand out, follow these helpful tips.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Use High Heat: Grilling at high heat helps achieve those perfect char marks while keeping the chicken juicy.
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them beforehand to prevent burning during grilling.
- Choose Thighs Over Breasts: Chicken thighs are more forgiving and will stay moist compared to breasts when grilled.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Satay can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some tasty options that complement this dish perfectly.
- Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of satay.
- Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the peanut sauce.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with herbs and vegetables offer a light, refreshing bite.
- Peanut Slaw: A crunchy slaw dressed in peanut sauce ties in nicely with your main dish’s flavors.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken satay.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Bold Marinade Timing: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper taste.
- Bold Skewer Prep: Forgetting to soak wooden skewers can cause them to burn on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using.
- Bold Sauce Thickness: Overcooking the peanut sauce can make it too thick and hard to dip. Keep an eye on it and remove it from heat once it reaches the desired consistency.
- Bold Grill Temperature: Grilling on too high heat might char the chicken outside while leaving it raw inside. Aim for medium-high heat for even cooking.
- Bold Ingredient Substitution: Using low-quality peanut butter can affect the sauce’s taste. Choose a smooth, natural peanut butter for the best flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce in an airtight container.
- It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze the chicken skewers separately from the peanut sauce in freezer-safe containers.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, about 2-3 minutes total.
- Stovetop: Place chicken skewers in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce.
How do I make Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce gluten-free?
To make Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
Can I use other meats for satay?
Yes, you can substitute beef, pork, or tofu for chicken in this recipe. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What should I serve with Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce?
This dish pairs well with jasmine rice, fresh vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
How long does Chicken Satay stay fresh?
Chicken Satay can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it by experimenting with different proteins or adjusting the spice level according to your taste. Perfect for any occasion, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce, a dish that combines juicy grilled chicken skewers with a rich, creamy peanut sauce. This Thai-inspired recipe is perfect for impressing guests at BBQs or enjoying a quick weeknight dinner. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create an explosion of taste featuring coconut milk, red curry paste, and savory spices. Ideal for any occasion, this versatile dish is not only delicious but also offers healthy alternatives with lean chicken and customizable options to suit your palate. Serve it alongside fresh garnishes and enjoy a culinary experience that’s both satisfying and unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless chicken (thighs or breasts)
- 1/3 cup coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 16 skewers
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Chopped roasted peanuts
- Sliced red chilis
- Lime wedges
- Cilantro leaves
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in a mixture of coconut milk, soy sauce, red curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, garlic, curry powder, salt, and white pepper for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare the peanut sauce by heating peanut butter with coconut milk, brown sugar, red curry paste, soy sauce, fish sauce, and lime juice in a saucepan until smooth.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Serve warm with peanut sauce on the side and garnish with chopped peanuts, sliced chilis, lime wedges, and cilantro.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: MAIN DISH
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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