Thai Peanut Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that combines rich flavors with simple preparation, then you’re in for a treat with this Thai Peanut Chicken! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it brings together tender, juicy chicken thighs and a creamy, dreamy peanut sauce that’s just irresistible. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

Thai Peanut Chicken is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. You can serve it on skewers for a fun presentation or alongside fluffy rice to soak up all that amazing sauce. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy peanut sauce is a hit with both kids and adults alike!
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as skewers or over rice—either way, it’s delicious!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra for leftovers; the flavors deepen when reheated!
• Flavor Explosion: Every bite is packed with the perfect balance of savory and sweet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! They are simple and wholesome, making this dish not only delicious but also accessible. Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Thai Peanut Chicken:

For the Peanut Sauce

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup unsweetened, full-fat coconut milk (from can, not carton; stirred well)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (juice from approximately 1 medium lime)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or fish sauce)
• 1 ½ packed tablespoons brown sugar (dark preferred)
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic (approximately 3 large cloves)
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (plus more to taste)

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized chunks)
• Cooked white or brown rice

For Garnishing

• Lime wedges
• Whole or chopped peanuts
• Chopped green onions
• Chopped cilantro

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or tofu for a plant-based option that still packs flavor.
• Add vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli can be tossed in for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes if you like some heat!
• Switch up the nut butter: Try almond or cashew butter for a different twist on flavor.

How to Make Thai Peanut Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing your peanut sauce ingredients together. In a bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, coconut milk, lime juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ground ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until everything is well blended! This step creates the rich base that makes this dish shine.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, add your chicken thighs and pour half of your prepared peanut sauce over them. Toss everything together until all pieces are evenly coated. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor and tenderness.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your marinated chicken pieces. Cook each side for about 5 minutes or until nicely browned and cooked through. This step ensures you have that beautiful caramelization while keeping the chicken juicy.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest briefly. Then serve it on skewers or over fluffy rice. Drizzle with more peanut sauce if desired! Finally, garnish with lime wedges, chopped peanuts, green onions, and cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

And there you have it—your very own Thai Peanut Chicken! Enjoy every bite; I know you will love it as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Thai Peanut Chicken

Creating a delicious Thai Peanut Chicken dish is all about the details, so here are some pro tips to ensure your meal turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and lime juice make a world of difference in flavor. They enhance the dish’s overall freshness and brightness, giving your peanut sauce that vibrant kick.
• Marinate the chicken: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken thighs in a portion of the peanut sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This step ensures every bite is infused with rich, nutty goodness.
• Adjust the spice level: Start with less crushed red pepper flakes if you’re sensitive to heat. You can always add more at the end to suit your taste, allowing everyone to customize their spice level.
• Skewering technique: If you decide to serve this on skewers, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning and helps ensure even cooking.
• Make extra sauce: Prepare a little extra peanut sauce on the side for drizzling over rice or as a dipping sauce. It not only enhances the flavor but also adds visual appeal to your plate.

How to Serve Thai Peanut Chicken

Presenting your Thai Peanut Chicken can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas for serving this flavorful dish that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before eating brightens up the dish and balances the richness of the peanut sauce.
• Chopped cilantro: This herb adds a burst of freshness and color, complementing the flavors beautifully while providing an aromatic touch.
• Whole or chopped peanuts: Sprinkling peanuts on top adds crunch and enhances the nutty flavor of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Coconut Rice: This slightly sweet rice dish pairs perfectly with Thai flavors. The coconut milk used in cooking adds creaminess that complements the peanut sauce beautifully.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of colorful veggies—like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas—stir-fried in a light soy sauce brings vibrant colors and additional nutrients to your meal.
• Thai Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with sliced cucumbers, carrots, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the rich peanut chicken.
• Spring Rolls: Light and crunchy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies are perfect for dipping in any leftover peanut sauce or sweet chili sauce, adding an extra layer of fun to your dining experience.

Now that you have everything you need to prepare and serve this delightful Thai Peanut Chicken, gather your ingredients and enjoy creating this delectable dish! Happy cooking!

 

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thai Peanut Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making busy weeknights a breeze. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the Thai Peanut Chicken in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep any extra peanut sauce separate until ready to serve.

Freezing

• Portion the chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and contents before sealing tightly.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
• To prevent freezer burn, try to remove as much air as possible from the bags.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• For microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second increments until warmed through.
• For stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed to keep it moist.
• Serve with fresh lime wedges, chopped peanuts, and green onions for added flavor.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Thai Peanut Chicken recipe:

Can I make this Thai Peanut Chicken with other proteins?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs are delicious, you can substitute them with boneless skinless chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How can I modify the spice level in my Thai Peanut Chicken?

To adjust the spice level, simply increase or decrease the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. You can also serve additional chili flakes on the side for those who enjoy more heat!

Is Thai Peanut Chicken good for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is fantastic for meal prep because it stores well and tastes just as great when reheated. It’s perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

What sides go well with Thai Peanut Chicken?

Thai Peanut Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or fresh salad. You can also serve it with veggie sticks or spring rolls for a complete meal!

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

You can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture! Just keep in mind that it will alter the smoothness of your sauce slightly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Thai Peanut Chicken! It’s a dish that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying solo. Remember that cooking is all about experimenting and having fun—don’t hesitate to try your own variations. Enjoy every bite!