Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

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 Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this delicious dish ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion – The marinade infuses the chicken with vibrant Thai flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Serving Options – Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or for entertaining guests at BBQs or parties.
• Customizable Ingredients – Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins if chicken isn’t your thing.
• Healthier Alternative – Grilling reduces fat content while maintaining flavor, making this a lighter option for your dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to make your Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce successful.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden or metal skewers
• Large bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Grill or grill pan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers – Essential for holding the marinated chicken while grilling; choose soaked wooden ones or sturdy metal skewers.
• Large Bowl – Ideal for mixing and marinating the chicken; it allows enough space for even coating.
• Medium Saucepan – Necessary for cooking the peanut sauce smoothly and efficiently; ensures even heating.
• Grill or Grill Pan – Provides high heat needed for searing the chicken quickly; enhances flavor through grilling marks.

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

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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 and discard 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 or 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

Serving Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce can elevate your meal experience. Here are some creative suggestions to enhance your dish and impress your guests.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad can add a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the peanut sauce.
• Carrot Sticks – Serve crisp carrot sticks on the side for a healthy, vibrant addition that complements the flavors.

Add Rice or Noodles

• Jasmine Rice – Fluffy jasmine rice is a classic pairing that soaks up the delicious peanut sauce.
• Rice Noodles – For a gluten-free option, rice noodles tossed in sesame oil make a delightful base for your skewers.

Garnish Creatively

• Chopped Peanuts – Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the skewers for an added crunch and visual appeal.
• Fresh Herbs – Use cilantro or mint leaves to garnish your dish, adding both flavor and color.

How to Perfect Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

To achieve the best results with your Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer – Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight maximizes flavor and tenderness.
• Use a Meat Thermometer – Ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked meat.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust spices in the marinade or peanut sauce based on your taste preferences.
• Preheat Your Grill – A hot grill will give you beautiful char marks and seal in juices effectively.
• Soak Skewers – If using wooden skewers, soaking them in water prevents burning while grilling.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

Complementing your Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is easy with the right side dishes. Here are some fantastic options that will round out your meal beautifully.

1. Thai Cucumber Salad – A sweet and tangy salad made with cucumbers, vinegar, sugar, and chili flakes adds brightness.
2. Steamed Jasmine Rice – Lightly scented jasmine rice serves as a perfect canvas for soaking up that rich peanut sauce.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn grilled until slightly charred pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of satay.
4. Vegetable Spring Rolls – Fresh spring rolls filled with crispy veggies provide a crunchy contrast to the tender chicken.
5. Spicy Pickled Carrots – These zesty pickles add an exciting zing that complements the creamy peanut sauce nicely.
6. Sautéed Bok Choy – Lightly sautéed bok choy offers a nutritious green option that adds color and flavor to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Marinating the chicken for at least one hour allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. If you rush this step, your chicken may taste bland.
• Using Low-Quality Peanut Butter: The quality of peanut butter greatly influences the sauce. Always choose natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Grilling too long can dry out the chicken. Keep an eye on it and remove it from heat once it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Not Soaking Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, failing to soak them can lead to burning on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use.
• Ignoring Garnishes: Garnishes like chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro add texture and flavor. Don’t skip these, as they enhance the overall presentation and taste of your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

• Place the skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, thawing may affect texture slightly.

Reheating Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely with a paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Sauté skewers for 5-7 minutes until heated through, turning occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce?

Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is a popular Thai dish consisting of marinated grilled chicken skewers served with a creamy peanut sauce.

Can I use different meats for satay?

Yes! While chicken is traditional, you can use pork, beef, or even tofu as alternatives for chicken satay with peanut sauce.

How do I make my peanut sauce spicier?

To increase the heat of your peanut sauce, add more red curry paste or incorporate chopped fresh chili peppers during cooking.

Can I prepare Chicken Satay ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.

Is Chicken Satay healthy?

Yes! This dish is relatively healthy when made with lean chicken and natural ingredients in the peanut sauce. It’s packed with protein and flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, you can customize it by exploring different meats or adding extra spices to suit your taste. Enjoy this delightful dish any time!