When summer’s warm embrace beckons outdoor cooking, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of creating a mouthwatering feast right from your grill. Picture this: the tantalizing aroma of coconut milk and red curry wafts through the air, while tender chicken skewers sizzle joyfully on the grates. These Thai Grilled Chicken Satay skewers are a delightful escape from mundane meals, transporting you straight to the bustling streets of Thailand with every bite.
I stumbled upon this gem while searching for a way to wow my friends during a sunny get-together. The combination of spices and the creamy peanut sauce created a perfect harmony of flavors that turned an ordinary afternoon into an unforgettable culinary adventure. Not only are these skewers incredibly easy to whip up, but they also make for an impressive presentation that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
Are you ready to embark on a delicious journey? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite of these skewers packs a punch, with the rich coconut milk and bold red curry intertwining in a heavenly way.
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can have a delightful meal ready to impress—perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
Grill Perfection: Whether you’re grilling outdoors or in a kitchen, these skewers bring that charred goodness that makes BBQs unforgettable.
Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish alongside rice for a complete meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: With their vibrant presentation and irresistible peanut sauce, they turn any gathering into a festive occasion, making it hard for guests to resist asking for the recipe!
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce Ingredients
• Gather your essentials for a delightful meal!
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken – thighs offer juiciness, while breasts provide leaner options.
- 1/3 cup coconut milk – adds creaminess and a tropical twist to the marinade.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce – enhances umami flavor to balance the dish perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste – infuses the chicken with vibrant spices that sing of Thailand.
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce – a little goes a long way in deepening flavors.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar – balances out the saltiness and adds a touch of sweetness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – for an aromatic kick that elevates the overall taste.
- 2 teaspoons curry powder – complements the red curry paste and deepens the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances all the delicious ingredients without overwhelming them.
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper – adds a subtle spiciness without being too bold.
For the Peanut Sauce
- 1/2 cup peanut butter – the creamy base that makes this sauce irresistible and satisfying.
- 1/4 cup coconut milk – brings back that creamy, smooth texture, marrying flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – for sweetness to balance the nutty flavors in the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste – layering the flavor to ensure a rich, fun taste in every dip.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce – enhances the savory notes, tying everything together wonderfully.
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce – adds depth and complexity to the peanut sauce.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice – brightens up the sauce and cuts through the richness.
For Garnishing
- Chopped roasted peanuts – crunchy, nutty goodness that adds texture and flair.
- Sliced red chilis – for a pop of color and a kick of heat if desired.
- Lime wedges – serve alongside for an extra splash of freshness.
- Cilantro leaves – infuse a herbal brightness that complements the entire dish.
With the recipe for Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce ready, you’re one step closer to an extraordinary culinary experience!
How to Make Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
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Mix Marinade: In a bowl, combine the coconut milk, soy sauce, red curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, curry powder, salt, and white pepper. Stir well to create a fragrant marinade.
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Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow to marinate for at least 1 hour in the fridge, or overnight for deeper flavors.
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Prepare Peanut Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the peanut butter, coconut milk, brown sugar, red curry paste, soy sauce, fish sauce, and lime juice. Heat until smooth and simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Assemble Skewers: Take the marinated chicken and thread them onto soaked wooden skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced for uniform cooking.
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Grill Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 3-4 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
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Serve: Plate the warm chicken skewers alongside your creamy peanut sauce and garnish with chopped peanuts, sliced red chilis, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro leaves.
Optional: Serve with jasmine rice for a complete meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
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Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
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Soak Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before use. This prevents them from burning on the grill and ensures even cooking.
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Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating without being dry.
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Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red curry paste in the marinade and peanut sauce. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
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Serve Immediately: To enjoy the skewers at their best, serve them warm right off the grill. They stay juicy and flavorful when fresh, making your Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce an unforgettable delight!
What to Serve with Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these tantalizing skewers with delightful accompaniments that tease your taste buds.
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Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and aromatic, it beautifully absorbs the rich peanut sauce and balances the spices of the chicken.
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Thai Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad offers a cool contrast that brightens up every bite of skewers.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant bring added depth and flavor, creating a colorful and nutritious plate.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet finish, this classic dessert pairs perfectly, combining creamy coconut with juicy mango.
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Chili-Lime Corn on the Cob: Spicy and tangy, this zesty side adds a fun twist that complements the flavors of the chicken satay.
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Coconut Iced Tea: This soothing drink, with hints of coconut sweetness, refreshes your palate and makes the perfect pairing with the meal.
Enjoying Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce is as much about the sides you choose as it is about the main dish itself!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce skewers are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to save valuable time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, letting those rich flavors infuse each piece. Additionally, prepare the peanut sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just make sure to give it a good stir before serving to maintain that creamy texture. When it’s time to cook, simply thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, and serve with the luscious peanut sauce on the side. With these prep tips, you’ll enjoy delightful, restaurant-quality skewers with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Fridge: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes to regain their juicy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked Chicken Satay for up to 3 months. Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Peanut Sauce Storage: Keep unused peanut sauce in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container. Stir well before serving again, adding a splash of lime juice for freshness.
Defrosting: When ready to enjoy, thaw skewers overnight in the fridge. Grill or warm in the oven until heated through for that freshly made flavor.
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce Variations
Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own with these fun twists!
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option that maintains excellent flavor.
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Spicy Twist: Add extra red curry paste or a dash of sriracha to the marinade for an extra kick that tantalizes your taste buds.
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken for firm tofu, marinate as instructed, and grill for a delicious plant-based version.
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Exotic Flavor: Incorporate chopped lemongrass along with the marinade ingredients, imparting a zesty, fragrant note that elevates the dish.
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Coconut Infusion: Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with the tropical elements.
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Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version that’s equally creamy and satisfying.
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Herb-Enhanced: Toss in a handful of fresh Thai basil or mint to the peanut sauce for a refreshing herbal finish alongside the rich flavors.
Let your creativity flow as you make this recipe uniquely yours—after all, cooking should be a joyful journey!
Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for Chicken Satay?
Absolutely! You can use either boneless skinless chicken thighs for juiciness or breasts for a leaner option. Thighs retain moisture better during grilling, while breasts may require careful cooking to avoid dryness.
How should I store leftovers of Chicken Satay?
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating them on the grill for a few minutes to get that juicy texture back. Microwaving is also an option, though it may not retain the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each cooked skewer tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. This helps prevent freezer burn, preserving flavor for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the grill or in the oven.
How can I adjust the spice level in the marinade or peanut sauce?
Very good question! If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red curry paste by half in both the marinade and the peanut sauce. Additionally, taste as you go; you can always add more spice, but it’s harder to tone it down once it’s in!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! To make Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce gluten-free, substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari. There are also many brands of gluten-free fish sauce available without compromising flavor, ensuring you still enjoy that delicious umami depth.
Can I give Chicken Satay to my pets?
It’s wise to be cautious! While cooked chicken is safe for pets, be mindful of seasoning and the ingredients in the peanut sauce, like fish sauce and the added sugar, which might not be healthy for them. Always consult your vet about introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.
Irresistible Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the coconut milk, soy sauce, red curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, curry powder, salt, and white pepper. Stir well to create a fragrant marinade.
- Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow to marinate for at least 1 hour in the fridge, or overnight for deeper flavors.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the peanut butter, coconut milk, brown sugar, red curry paste, soy sauce, fish sauce, and lime juice. Heat until smooth and simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Take the marinated chicken and thread them onto soaked wooden skewers, ensuring they are evenly spaced for uniform cooking.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 3-4 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Plate the warm chicken skewers alongside your creamy peanut sauce and garnish with chopped peanuts, sliced red chilis, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro leaves.