Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

This easy and flavorful Chicken Satay recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia to your table. Paired with a creamy, nutty peanut dipping sauce, it’s the perfect appetizer or light meal for any occasion!

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Yield

Serves 6

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Satay:

• 1 pound chicken breast or thighs, cut into thin strips
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
• 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger

For the Peanut Sauce:

• 1/3 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili sauce (optional, for spice)
• 1/4 cup coconut milk or water (to thin)

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Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, fish sauce (if using), turmeric, curry powder, garlic powder, and ground ginger.
2. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for best flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and sriracha (if using).
2. Gradually add coconut milk or water, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Satay

1. Preheat your grill, grill pan, or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the marinated chicken strips onto wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning).
3. Grill the skewers for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.

Step 4: Serve

1. Arrange the cooked skewers on a serving platter.
2. Serve with the peanut sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or crushed peanuts for extra flair.

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How It Looks and Tastes

Golden and slightly charred chicken skewers with a fragrant, flavorful marinade. The creamy peanut sauce adds a rich, nutty balance to the savory chicken, with a hint of citrus and spice. A perfect combination of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors!

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Kitchen Tips

1. Use Chicken Thighs for Juiciness: Thighs stay tender and moist, but breasts work well if cooked carefully.
2. Soak Wooden Skewers: Prevent burning by soaking skewers in water for 30 minutes before use.
3. Marinate Longer for Flavor: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the fridge.
4. Thin the Peanut Sauce: Adjust the sauce’s thickness by adding more coconut milk or water.
5. Cook Without a Grill: Use a grill pan or bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes.
6. Garnish for Presentation: Sprinkle with chopped peanuts, cilantro, or lime zest for added color and flavor.
7. Pair with Sides: Serve alongside jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or naan bread for a complete meal.
8. Spice it Up: Add more sriracha or chili flakes to the peanut sauce for extra heat.
9. Serve Warm: Keep the skewers warm by covering them with foil until ready to serve.
10. Make it Ahead: The peanut sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.

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This Chicken Satay is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its vibrant flavors and creamy dipping sauce. Whether it’s for a party, a casual dinner, or meal prepping, this dish is sure to impress!