Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce Recipe

One Bite and You’re Hooked: The Best Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce Recipe

Chicken satay with peanut sauce is one of those dishes that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Thailand with its irresistible aroma and bold flavors. There’s just something magical about the combination of tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection and a creamy, nutty peanut sauce that’s equal parts savory and sweet. Today, I’m going to walk you through an easy recipe for chicken satay that’s not only delicious but also customizable with healthy sides to make it perfect for any occasion.

As I was perfecting this recipe, I couldn’t help but reminisce about my first experience with Thai street food. That first bite of chicken satay completely changed how I thought about skewers. It’s more than just grilled chicken—it’s an adventure for your taste buds. I’ve since crafted my version of this dish, and I’m excited to share it with you.

This post may contain affiliate links at no extra cost to you. Please read our full disclosure here to find out more.

What Makes Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce So Irresistible?

Chicken satay stands out because of its layers of flavor. The secret is the marinade, made with aromatic spices, rich coconut milk, and just a hint of sweetness. Then there’s the peanut sauce, which pairs perfectly with the savory skewers. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or hosting a dinner party, this dish always steals the show.

Here’s why you’ll love it:

It’s Easy: While it looks and tastes gourmet, this recipe is surprisingly simple to follow.

It’s Healthy: Made with lean chicken, coconut milk, and nutrient-packed peanuts, it’s a wholesome meal.

It’s Versatile: Pair it with Thai-style cucumber salad, jasmine rice, or steamed veggies for a complete dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the perfect chicken satay, you’ll need two main components: the marinade and the peanut sauce. Let’s break it down.

For the Chicken Marinade:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into strips

1 cup coconut milk

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp fish sauce

1 tbsp brown sugar

1 tsp turmeric powder

1 tsp ground coriander

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

For the Peanut Sauce:

1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)

1/3 cup coconut milk

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp lime juice

1 tbsp brown sugar

1 tsp red curry paste (adjust to taste for spice)

2 tbsp water (to thin, if needed)

For the Sides:

Jasmine rice or cauliflower rice

Thai-style cucumber salad (thinly sliced cucumber, red onion, and a light lime dressing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, turmeric, coriander, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor.

2. Thread the Chicken onto Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

3. Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the skewers for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char. Alternatively, you can broil them in the oven for 5-6 minutes per side.

4. Make the Peanut Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the peanut sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and red curry paste. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Add water if needed to reach your desired consistency.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the skewers on a platter, drizzle with some peanut sauce, and serve the rest on the side for dipping. Pair with jasmine rice and cucumber salad for a complete meal.

Products to Elevate Your Cooking Experience

1. Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan

A good grill pan is essential for those beautiful grill marks and evenly cooked chicken. The Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan is my go-to. It’s durable, retains heat perfectly, and works well for both indoor and outdoor grilling.

Why I Love It: The cast iron surface adds a smoky flavor that mimics outdoor grilling.

Where to Get It: Shop it on Amazon here and take your grilling to the next level.

2. Thai Kitchen Organic Coconut Milk

High-quality coconut milk makes a world of difference in this recipe. Thai Kitchen Organic Coconut Milk is rich, creamy, and free from preservatives.

Why I Recommend It: Its pure, authentic flavor enhances the marinade and peanut sauce beautifully.

Where to Buy: Order it on Amazon for pantry-perfect coconut milk.

A Must-Read for Thai Food Enthusiasts

Book Recommendation: "Simple Thai Food" by Leela Punyaratabandhu

If you’re a fan of Thai cuisine, this cookbook is a treasure trove of authentic recipes and culinary tips. Leela Punyaratabandhu breaks down complex dishes into approachable steps, making it perfect for home cooks.

Why You Should Read It: Learn to master classic Thai dishes beyond satay, like pad thai and green curry.

Grab your copy on Amazon and transform your kitchen into a Thai street food haven.

Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Satay

1. Marinate Overnight: Letting the chicken soak up the marinade overnight ensures deep, bold flavors.

2. Don’t Overcook: Chicken dries out quickly, so keep an eye on the skewers and remove them as soon as they’re cooked.

3. Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter or spicier sauce, tweak the brown sugar or curry paste to taste.

Healthy Sides to Complete Your Meal

Pair your chicken satay with one (or more) of these healthy sides to round out your plate:

Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumber, red onion, and a tangy lime dressing balances the richness of the peanut sauce.

Jasmine or Cauliflower Rice: Choose jasmine rice for a traditional pairing or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Steamed or Grilled Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers add a burst of color and nutrients to your meal.

Why You Need to Try This Recipe

Chicken satay with peanut sauce isn’t just another dinner idea—it’s an experience. This easy recipe combines the richness of coconut milk, the nuttiness of peanut butter, and the aroma of spices to create a dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Plus, with the healthy sides and simple preparation, it’s a win-win for busy weeknights or special occasions.

I’ve made this dish countless times, and every single time, it’s met with rave reviews. Give it a try, and I guarantee it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get grilling! And don’t forget to check out the products and book recommendations to make your cooking journey even more exciting.