Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce
Welcome to a culinary journey to Thailand with the delicious Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce. The aroma of lemongrass, the creaminess of coconut milk, and the nuttiness of peanuts come together in this delightful dish. As you delve into the rich flavors and tender chicken, you’ll be transported to the bustling streets of Bangkok. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this iconic Thai dish!
Key Takeaways:
- Experience the unique blend of flavors in Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce
- Save time with a simple yet flavorful recipe
- Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes
- Follow tips for marinating the chicken to enhance the taste
- Discover how to store and reheat leftovers for a quick and delicious meal
Why You’ll Adore This Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce
Ultimate Comfort: Indulge in the creamy and luscious flavors of Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce that will warm your soul.
Easy and Delicious: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish is a go-to for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Bursting with Flavor: The harmony of spices and herbs in this dish creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Heartwarming Tradition: This recipe brings a taste of Thailand to your home, adding a touch of authenticity to your dining experience.

Essential Ingredients for Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce
Chicken Thighs: Succulent and juicy, chicken thighs are the perfect choice for absorbing the flavors of the marinade and staying tender.
Coconut Milk: Rich and creamy coconut milk adds a luscious texture and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
Peanut Butter: Smooth peanut butter brings a nutty richness to the sauce, complementing the savory notes of the chicken.
How to Make Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce
Marinating the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken thighs in a mixture of lemongrass, soy sauce, and coconut milk for at least 30 minutes to infuse them with flavor.
Cooking the Chicken
Grill or pan-sear the marinated chicken until it’s cooked through, then slice it into tender strips ready to be dipped in the savory peanut sauce.
Preparing the Peanut Sauce
In a saucepan, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, red curry paste, and a touch of sugar to create a velvety sauce that enhances the chicken’s flavors.
Ingredients
Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce Instructions

Pro Tips for the Best Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce
Grill for Flavor: For a smoky charred flavor, grill the marinated chicken thighs on a charcoal grill.
Serving Suggestions: Pair your Thai Satay Chicken with fragrant jasmine rice and a crunchy cucumber salad for a complete meal.
Adjust Spice Level: Add more or less red curry paste to adjust the spiciness of the peanut sauce according to your preference.
You Must Know
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor infusion.
- Use natural peanut butter without added sugar for a cleaner taste in the sauce.
- Adjust the saltiness by tasting the marinade before grilling the chicken.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How to Store Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce
To store Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce, place the cooked chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Customizing Your Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce
For a twist on the classic recipe, try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a seafood or vegetarian version of this dish.
What to Serve with Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce
Complete your meal with a side of steamed jasmine rice, a refreshing papaya salad, and a tall glass of Thai iced tea to complement the spicy flavors of the dish.
Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce
Juicy, marinated skewered chicken layered with flavor dunked in creamy peanut sauce.
Timing
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 01 2 pounds chicken breasts or thighs (sliced into 1 1/2" wide strips by 3-5" long)
- 02 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 03 1/4 cup coconut milk (plus more as needed (may sub water))
- 04 1/3-1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
- 05 12-15 skewers
- 06 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 07 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 08 1 tablespoon chili paste (like Sambal Oelek)
- 09 1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice
- 10 1 1/2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 11 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 12 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 13 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 14 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 15 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
Instructions
Whisk together the Marinade/Sauce ingredients in a medium bowl. Remove 1/3 cup to a freezer size bag and whisk in 3 tablespoons olive oil (for the marinade). Add chicken and toss to evenly coat. Marinate in the refrigerator 6 hours up to overnight. Refrigerate remaining marinade/sauce separately - this will become the base of your Peanut Sauce.
When ready to cook, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. Meanwhile, remove chicken from refrigerator to bring to room temperature. Thread chicken onto skewers and lightly dab excess marinade off with paper towels.
OVEN: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with foil and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray. Evenly divide chicken between baking sheets. Bake 15-20 minutes OR until chicken is cooked through being careful not to overcook or chicken will not be as tender (internal temp of 165 degrees F).
GRILL: Grease an indoor or outdoor grill and heat to high heat. Once hot, add chicken, reduce heat to medium, cover and grill chicken 3-4 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165 degrees F).
SKILLET: Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium high heat. Working in batches, add skewers and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp of 165 degrees F).
Add reserved Sauce to a small saucepan along with 1/4 cup coconut milk OR 3 tablespoons water. Bring to a boil then simmer for 1 minute. Remove from heat then stir in 1/3 cup peanut butter until completely combined then add additional peanut butter if desired for a thicker/more nutty sauce OR water or coconut milk 1 tablespoon at a time for a thinner sauce. Taste and add additional chili sauce if desired for a spicier sauce.
Serve chicken warm with Peanut Sauce for an appetizer or also serve with rice/veggies for a main course.
FILED UNDER:
NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
Must-Know Tips
Professional Secrets
Frequently Asked Questions About Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce
Can I make Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and peanut sauce ahead of time for a quick and easy meal when ready to cook.
How long does Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce last in the fridge?
Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring you can enjoy leftovers without any compromise in flavor.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce?
Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce pairs perfectly with jasmine rice, cucumber salad, and freshly sliced pineapple for a complete Thai dining experience.
Can I use chunky peanut butter in the sauce?
Yes, you can use chunky peanut butter for added texture in the sauce, creating a delightful contrast with the tender chicken.
How can I add extra heat to the dish?
If you’re a fan of spicy food, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or thinly sliced Thai chili peppers to the sauce for an extra kick of heat.
Is Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce gluten-free?
By using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, you can easily make this dish gluten-free without compromising on taste.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs in this recipe?
While chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness, you can certainly use chicken breast if you prefer a leaner option, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make the sauce creamier?
To enhance the creaminess of the peanut sauce, you can stir in a tablespoon of coconut cream or a splash of coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
Final Thoughts
Embrace the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this exquisite Thai Satay Chicken with Peanut Sauce. From the marinated and grilled chicken to the velvety peanut sauce, each bite is a culinary adventure. I invite you to savor the richness of this dish and share it with your loved ones for a memorable dining experience. Get ready to elevate your taste buds with this mouthwatering Thai delicacy!
