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This vibrant Thai Peanut Chicken recipe brings a deliciously creamy and nutty flavor to your weeknight dinners without any fuss. Tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection are tossed in a luscious peanut sauce combining coconut milk and soy, making every bite deeply satisfying and just a little bit indulgent.
The first time I made this dish was after discovering a love for Thai flavors on a trip to Bangkok. Since then, it has become a cozy favorite that reminds me of those vibrant street food markets.
Ingredients List
- Chicken breasts: bite-sized for quick, even cooking
- Fresh garlic: adds a fragrant punch essential to the sauce
- Low-sodium soy sauce: brings umami depth without overpowering
- Creamy natural peanut butter: creates that rich, silky texture and authentic peanut flavor
- Full-fat coconut milk: offers a subtle sweetness and smoothness that blends beautifully
- Vegetable oil for cooking: opt for a neutral oil that can handle medium-high heat
- Salt and pepper to season the chicken perfectly: freshly ground pepper enhances flavor best
Cooking Steps
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken pieces until browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep it warm.
- Sauté the Garlic:
- Lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about one minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Create the Sauce:
- Stir in soy sauce, peanut butter, and coconut milk into the skillet. Mix everything together to form a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it evenly with the peanut sauce. Let the dish simmer for a few minutes so the chicken absorbs all the rich flavors.
- Serve:
- Dish the chicken onto plates and garnish with chopped peanuts or fresh cilantro for an added crunch and color contrast.
The creamy peanut sauce is my absolute favorite element it brings a perfect blend of creaminess and seasoning that even picky eaters love. This dish often brings back memories of lively dinners shared with family on cozy evenings.
Best Storage Practices
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish reheats well on the stove over low heat to keep the sauce creamy and avoid drying out the chicken. If you notice the sauce thickening too much, add a dash of coconut milk or water to loosen it up during reheating.
Ingredient Swaps
Try substituting chicken breasts with tender chicken thighs for juicier results especially if you prefer dark meat. For a lower fat option, swap coconut milk with light coconut milk or a splash of almond milk although the dish will be less rich. If you are allergic to peanuts, sunflower seed butter or tahini can be alternative nut-free options that maintain a creamy texture.
Serving Pairings
Serve this Thai Peanut Chicken over jasmine rice or alongside brown rice for a wholesome meal. It also pairs beautifully with rice noodles tossed in a light sesame dressing or stir-fried vegetables like snap peas and carrots for freshness and crunch. A simple cucumber salad with a mild vinaigrette complements the richness perfectly.
This recipe is a beloved classic that combines simplicity with vibrant flavors. It never fails to bring warmth and satisfaction to the table.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → What type of chicken is best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best as they cook quickly and stay tender when coated in the peanut sauce.
- → Can I adjust the sauce thickness?
Yes, you can thin the sauce by adding a splash of coconut milk or water if it seems too thick after simmering.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Adding a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce enhances the heat without overpowering the peanut flavor.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Steamed jasmine rice or noodles absorb the sauce nicely and complement the savory, nutty flavors.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
While best served fresh, the chicken and sauce can be cooked ahead and gently reheated, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.