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!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Satay Skewers:
• For the Peanut Sauce:
• For Serving:
• How to Make Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
• Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 2: Make the Peanut Sauce
• Step 3: Prepare the Skewers
• Step 4: Grill the Chicken
• Step 5: Serve and Garnish
• How to Serve Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
• Garnish Ideas
• Accompaniments
• How to Perfect Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
• Reheating Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce?
• Can I use different meats for satay?
• How do I make my peanut sauce spicier?
• Is Chicken Satay healthy?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The combination of coconut milk, red curry paste, and garlic creates a delicious marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.
• Quick to prepare: With minimal prep time and just 25 minutes of cooking, you can serve up this tasty dish in no time.
• Versatile serving options: Perfect for parties or weeknight dinners, chicken satay can be served as an appetizer or main course.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer chilis to suit your taste preference.
• Perfect for grilling enthusiasts: Enjoy the smoky flavor from grilling while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce easier and more enjoyable. Here are the essentials you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Medium saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides high heat necessary for that perfect char on the chicken skewers.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating the chicken evenly and mixing the peanut sauce smoothly.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients without lumps when making the peanut 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

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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 and bring to a simmer.
3. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes until thickened.
4. 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 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 is all about enhancing the flavors and presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that elevate the dining experience.

Garnish Ideas

• Chopped Roasted Peanuts – Sprinkle some over the skewers for added crunch and nuttiness.
• Sliced Red Chilis – Add a pop of color and a hint of heat for those who enjoy spice.
• Fresh Cilantro – Use cilantro leaves for a refreshing touch that complements the peanut sauce.
• Lime Wedges – Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus when squeezed over the satay.

Accompaniments

• Cucumber Salad – A light, refreshing salad balances the richness of the peanut sauce.
• Steamed Rice – Fluffy white or jasmine rice absorbs the delicious flavors, making it a classic pairing.
• Grilled Vegetables – Charred bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition to your plate.

How to Perfect Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

To achieve the best results with your Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce, consider these essential tips.

• Marinate Longer – Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight will enhance its flavor significantly.
• Use High-Quality Peanut Butter – Opt for natural peanut butter without additives for a richer taste in your sauce.
• Control Heat Levels – Adjust the amount of red curry paste based on your spice preference for a tailored experience.
• Pre-soak Skewers – If using wooden skewers, soaking them prevents burning during grilling, ensuring perfectly cooked chicken.
• Check Doneness – Always ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and tenderness.

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Best Side Dishes for Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Satay can enhance its flavors and make your meal more satisfying. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Coconut Rice – Creamy coconut rice adds a subtle sweetness that complements savory satay beautifully.
2. Thai Noodle Salad – A vibrant noodle salad tossed in a light dressing provides freshness and crunch.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet grilled corn brushed with lime butter offers a delightful contrast to the savory skewers.
4. Mango Salsa – A zesty mango salsa brings brightness and tropical flavors that pair wonderfully with chicken satay.
5. Pickled Vegetables – Tangy pickled veggies like carrots and daikon balance out rich flavors perfectly.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with spicy notes from the satay, making them a great side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for marinating can lead to bland chicken. Aim for a minimum of 1 hour, but overnight is best for deep flavors.
• Using Cold Chicken: Grilling cold chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always bring your marinated chicken to room temperature before grilling for even results.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many skewers on the grill can cause steaming instead of grilling. Cook in batches if needed to achieve that perfect char.
• Ignoring Skewer Soaking: Failing to soak wooden skewers can result in them burning on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand.
• Rushing the Peanut Sauce: Cooking the peanut sauce too quickly might prevent it from thickening properly. Keep it over medium heat and stir frequently.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

• Place cooled chicken satay in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil, heating for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil, and cook the chicken until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce?

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

Can I use different meats for satay?

Yes! While chicken is traditional, you can also use beef, pork, or tofu as alternatives for your satay skewers.

How do I make my peanut sauce spicier?

To add more heat, mix in some chili paste or sriracha into your peanut sauce until you reach your desired spice level.

Is Chicken Satay healthy?

Chicken Satay can be a healthy option when made with lean cuts of chicken and served with fresh vegetables and dipping sauces like peanut sauce in moderation.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the peanut sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately until you’re ready to grill.

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 adjusting spices or adding more veggies. Try this recipe today and enjoy its rich flavors!

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